Violent crime lawyer in University City, MO. If you’ve been accused of or questioned about a violent crime in University City, MO, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment, steep fines, and a criminal record that impacts your entire life. You need a dedicated violent crime lawyer in University City, MO who knows how to challenge the prosecution and develop a strong defense strategy.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We have over 40 years of experience and a track record of successfully handling more than 10,000 cases just like yours in University City, MO and beyond.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a University City, MO Violent Crime
Being charged with a violent crime in University City, MO can be overwhelming, but remember—you have rights. The experienced violent crime legal team at Combs Waterkotte has extensive experience in defending these charges, and we’re here to help. Avoid making mistakes that could impact your case or harm your defense. Until your University City, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Stay Silent: Do not answer police questions without a violent crime lawyer present. You are protected by the right to remain silent. Speaking without legal guidance can seriously damage your case. Instead, consult with a trusted violent crime lawyer in University City, MO immediately.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: The faster you hire an experienced violent crime lawyer in University City, MO, the stronger your defense will be. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in your case.
- Do Not Discuss Your University City, MO Case: What you say can be used against you. Refrain from talking about your charges with anyone other than lawyer—especially on social media.
- Gather Any Evidence: If you have evidence supporting your innocence, such as videos, messages, or witness contacts, share them with your attorney immediately.
Defining Violent Crimes in University City, MO
A violent crime is any offense involving physical harm or the threat of harm against another person. Most violent crimes are classified as felonies, meaning prosecutors in the University City, MO area often push for the harshest penalties—especially if someone was injured or killed. A conviction can affect every part of your life, from your career and reputation to your personal relationships.
With these stakes, you can’t afford to roll the dice with your future and freedom. You need a Combs Waterkotte University City, MO violent crime lawyer protecting your rights, proving your innocence, and fighting for your freedom in University City, MO. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to discuss the specifics of your case and get expert legal advice and guidance on next steps.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading University City, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Facing violent crime charges in University City, MO means prosecutors will push for the harshest penalties possible. That’s why you need a skilled criminal defense attorney who knows how to fight back. At Combs Waterkotte, we bring decades of experience defending University City, MO clients against violent crime allegations, such as:
- Assault & Battery
Whether you’re facing charges for simple assault or aggravated assault, we fight to protect your rights and minimize penalties. - Domestic Violence
False accusations and misunderstandings happen. We work to expose inconsistencies and defend your reputation. - Homicide / Murder Charges
Facing charges for first-degree murder, second-degree murder, or manslaughter? These cases require a meticulous defense strategy. Our experienced attorneys know how to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights. - Weapons Charges
When firearms or other weapons are involved, penalties escalate quickly. We fight to defend against charges of unlawful possession, use, and related offenses in University City, MO. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte University City, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the University City, MO area. - Kidnapping
Complex cases need skilled criminal defense attorneys who understand how to challenge the prosecution’s case at every level.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in the University City, MO area, you’re not just hiring a top-rated violent crime lawyer in University City, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to top defense from our experienced violent crime attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in University City and beyond:
- DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
- Drug Crimes Lawyer
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
- Homicide Lawyer
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
How Our Violent Crime Lawyer Defends Against Charges in University City, MO
Our experienced University City, MO violent crime legal team uses proven legal strategies such as:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, we work to prove your actions were justified.
- Lack of Intent — Without intent, many violent crime charges don’t stand. If your actions were accidental or misinterpreted, we challenge the prosecution’s claims.
- Insufficient Evidence — We scrutinize the prosecution’s case for flaws, seeking to suppress unreliable or improperly obtained evidence.
- Mistaken Identity — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- False Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the University City, MO area, we expose contradictions in the prosecution’s case.

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How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Charged with a crime? The lawyer you hire matters. Combs Waterkotte, recognized for top-tier criminal defense in Missouri, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
Why Choose a Combs Waterkotte University City, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
Not all law firms near University City, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in University City, MO, offering:
- Client-First Mentality: Our clients are our priority. We keep you involved in each step of your case, providing 24/7 support, clear communication, and personalized service in University City, MO.
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience: With 40+ years of combined legal experience, we know how to build winning defense strategies in University City, MO.
- Access to Top Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in University City, MO.
- Trial Ready: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in University City, MO.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
What Are the Penalties for a Violent Crime Conviction in University City, MO?
Violent crimes carry severe consequences in University City, MO, including substantial prison time and hefty fines. Every case is unique. The penalties largely depend on the specific charge, circumstances of the offense, and your prior criminal history. For example, a first-degree murder conviction carries a sentence of life in prison without parole or the death penalty, while a conviction for third-degree assault is up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000, and the unlawful use of a weapon is a class D felony, carrying up to 7 years in prison.
In addition to your prison sentence and fines, you’ll have:
- A felony record that follows you for life
- To face losing your professional license and your career
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Risk of deportation, visa denial, or citizenship revocation
Protect Your Future By Contacting a University City, MO Violent Crime Lawyer Today
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in University City, MO, don’t leave your future to chance. An experienced and aggressive violent crime lawyer can evaluate your case, develop a strong defense, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Don’t wait—call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free consultation in University City, MO.