Violent crime lawyer in University City, MO. Facing violent crime charges in University City, MO is a serious, life-changing event. A conviction can result in years behind bars, huge fines, and a criminal record that follows you forever. You need an experienced violent crime lawyer in University City, MO who will fight tirelessly to defend your rights and build a powerful legal defense.
Don’t face these charges alone in University City, MO—call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. With over 40 years of experience and more than 10,000 cases successfully handled in University City, MO and across Missouri, we have the expertise to help you fight for your future.
What to Do in University City, MO If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime
When you’re charged with a violent crime in University City, MO, it is important to remember you have rights. Also, the Combs Waterkotte violent crime attorneys have extensive experience in defending these charges. Don’t add to the already daunting charges by doing something to harm your case. After all, the problems created by your University City, MO arrest won’t be resolved until a successful outcome is reached. Here’s what to do:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence: Do not answer any questions from law enforcement without an attorney present. You have the right to remain silent, and exercising it won’t make things worse—but saying the wrong thing could. Speak only to your violent crime lawyer in University City, MO, and no one else.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: 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.
- Preserve Crucial 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.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in University City, MO can help protect your rights and build a strong defense. Call Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the legal support you need in University City, MO.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading University City, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Prosecutors take violent crime charges seriously in University City, MO, and they don’t hesitate in pursuing the harshest penalties. That’s exactly why hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a proven track record of success defending clients in University City, MO against a wide range of violent crime charges, including:
- Assault & Battery
We challenge the prosecution’s case to reduce charges and protect your future. - Domestic Violence
Misunderstandings and false claims can destroy lives. We uncover the truth and fight for your innocence. - 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
Whether you’re facing unlawful possession or use of a firearm in University City, MO, we challenge the charges to protect your freedom. - 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
These cases demand skilled legal defense in University City, MO. We dissect the prosecution’s case, exposing weaknesses that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
If you choose Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in or around University City, MO, you’re not just choosing the ideal violent crime lawyer in University City, MO and throughout Missouri – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert defense from our esteemed violent crime lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in University City and beyond:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in University City, MO
The right defense can mean the difference between a conviction and freedom in University City, MO. Our experienced violent crime legal team evaluates every angle to build a strong case, including:
- Self-Defense — You have the right to protect yourself. This defense justifies the use of reasonable force to protect yourself from imminent harm. We work to prove you acted lawfully.
- No Intent to Harm — Without intent, many violent crime charges don’t stand. If you didn’t intend harm, the charges might not hold up in court. This defense highlights the absence of the necessary mental state to commit the crime, like accident actions.
- Lack of Evidence — If the evidence against you is weak or improperly obtained, we fight to get charges dismissed or reduced.
- Misidentification — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- False Allegations — Some charges in University City, MO arise from false claims, personal grudges, or exaggerations. We challenge inconsistencies to protect your reputation and future.

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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 and Southern Illinois, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
What Makes Combs Waterkotte the Best Choice for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in University City, MO?
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-Centered Approach: We keep you informed, provide 24/7 access, and ensure you’re never left in the dark about your University City, MO case.
- Extensive Criminal Law Expertise: With decades of success in courts throughout the University City, MO area, we know how to navigate even the toughest cases.
- Elite Defense Resources: Our team includes expert witnesses, private investigators, and forensic specialists to strengthen your case.
- Trial-Tested and Fearless: 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.
Beyond incarceration and fines, a conviction can have lasting repercussions in University City, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- To face losing your career and any professional license(s)
- Difficulty gaining employment or finding a place to live
- Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation
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.
Take the first step toward your defense—call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free consultation in University City, MO.