Violent crime lawyer in Vernon County, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Vernon County, MO is life-altering, to say the least. A conviction can mean lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you’re facing charges, you need a skilled violent crime lawyer in Vernon County, MO who knows how to fight aggressively for your rights and build a strategic defense.
Don’t face these charges alone in Vernon County, 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 Vernon County, MO and across Missouri, we have the expertise to help you fight for your future.
Legal Videos

Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders?
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs talks about the differences in a defendant's experience when working with a public defender vs. a …

What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri?
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri? If you've been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail and get back home. Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs …

Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answer the most commonly asked questions about …

How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.

Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped?
Can your criminal case get dismissed? How can your defense attorney get your case dismissed? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses what needs to happen to have your charges …

Public Defender Caseloads Are High. Can I Trust One With My Case?
St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Vernon County, MO Violent Crime
Being charged with a violent crime in Vernon County, 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 Vernon County, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence: Do not answer police questions without an attorney present. You can’t face anything harsher for exercising your right to remain silent. But you can definitely damage your case by speaking to someone else. Talk to your violent crime lawyer in Vernon County, MO, and no one else.
- Seek Legal Representation Immediately: The sooner you hire an experienced Vernon County, MO violent crime attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense and getting the best possible outcome.
- Do Not Discuss Your Vernon County, MO Case: Avoid discussing your charges with anyone—including friends, family, or on social media. Any statements you make could be used against you.
- Gather Any Evidence: Any evidence that supports your innocence, such as messages, videos, or potential witnesses, should be handed over to your legal team immediately.

Understanding Violent Crimes in Vernon County, 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 Vernon County, 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 Vernon County, MO violent crime lawyer protecting your rights, proving your innocence, and fighting for your freedom in Vernon County, 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 Vernon County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Facing violent crime charges in Vernon County, 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 Vernon County, MO clients against violent crime allegations, such as:
- Assault & Battery
From simple assault to aggravated assault, we fight to protect your rights and minimize penalties. - Domestic Violence
False accusations can turn your life upside down. We work to challenge inconsistencies and defend your reputation in Vernon County, MO. - 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
If a firearm or other weapon is involved, penalties can be even more severe. We help fight unlawful possession and usage charges in the Vernon County, MO area. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges like robbery or armed robbery, can mean years or even decades in prison. We work aggressively to dispute evidence, intent, and any violations of your rights. - Kidnapping
These cases demand skilled legal defense in Vernon County, MO. We dissect the prosecution’s case, exposing weaknesses that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.

When you choose Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime legal team in the Vernon County, MO area, you aren’t just hiring the ideal violent crime lawyer in and around Vernon County, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert defense from our esteemed violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Vernon County and beyond:
Defense Strategies for Violent Crime Charges in Vernon County, MO
Our experienced Vernon County, MO violent crime legal team uses proven legal strategies such as:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to prevent harm to yourself or others, we present evidence that your actions were legally justified.
- No Criminal Intent — Many violent crime charges require intent. If your actions were accidental or misinterpreted, we challenge the prosecution’s claims.
- Weak or Unlawful Evidence — If the case against you is weak or relies on illegally obtained evidence, we push for dismissal or reduced charges.
- Mistaken Identity — Mistaken identity is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. We gather alibi evidence and expert analysis to prove you were not involved.
- False Allegations — In some cases, accusations stem from personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. We stop at nothing in Vernon County, MO to expose inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
Free book
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 Vernon County, MO?
Not all law firms near Vernon County, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Vernon County, MO, offering:
- Unwavering Client Support: 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 Vernon County, MO.
- Extensive Criminal Law Expertise: With decades of success in courts throughout the Vernon County, MO area, we know how to navigate even the toughest cases.
- Access to Top Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in Vernon County, MO.
- Trial Ready: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in Vernon County, MO.
Vernon County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Vernon County and Missouri.
What Are the Penalties for a Violent Crime Conviction in Vernon County, MO?
Violent crimes carry severe consequences in Vernon County, 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.
A conviction can also lead to significant long-term consequences in Vernon County, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- To face losing your career and any professional license(s)
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation

Your Future is on the Line — Get Help Today From a Combs Waterkotte Vernon County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
A violent crime charge in Vernon County, MO can put your future at risk. You need a skilled and determined violent crime lawyer who will access your case, build a strategic defense, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review in Vernon County, MO.

