Violent crime lawyer in Washington, MO. If you’ve been accused of or questioned about a violent crime in Washington, 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 Washington, 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 Washington, MO and beyond.
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Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Washington, MO Violent Crime
Being charged with a violent crime in Washington, 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 Washington, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Remain Silent: Do not answer police questions without a violent crime lawyer 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 Washington, MO, and no one else.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: The sooner you hire an experienced Washington, MO violent crime attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense and getting the best possible outcome.
- Do Not Discuss Your Washington, MO Case: Discussing your case with family, friends, or on social media can hurt your defense.
- 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 Washington, MO
A violent crime is any crime that involves violence or the threat of violence. Many violent crimes are felony offenses, for which prosecutors will seek the maximum sentence, particularly if the alleged victim was injured or killed. If convicted, you’ll face lifelong consequences—including your career, standing in the Washington, MO community, relationships, and more.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in Washington, 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 Washington, MO.
Why You Need a Top Washington, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Violent crime charges in Washington, MO are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe consequences. That’s why having a seasoned criminal defense attorney on your side is essential in Washington, MO. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a history of successfully defending clients against various violent crime charges in and around Washington, MO, including:
- 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
Murder and manslaughter charges carry the harshest penalties. We bring the experience and resources needed to fight for the best possible outcome in Washington, MO. - 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 Washington, MO area. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte Washington, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Washington, MO area. - Kidnapping
These serious charges require a tough defense. We analyze every aspect of the Washington, MO case to challenge weak evidence and unfair allegations.

If you hire Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime legal team in the Washington, MO area, you aren’t just choosing the ideal violent crime lawyer in Washington, MO and beyond – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert defense from our knowledgeable violent crime attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for Washington, MO residents:
Defense Strategies for Violent Crime Charges in Washington, MO
A strong defense is the difference between conviction and freedom. Our expert violent crime legal team explores all possible defenses, 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.
- Lack of Intent — Many violent crime charges require intent. We work to show your actions were accidental or misinterpreted.
- Lack of Evidence — We scrutinize the prosecution’s case for flaws, seeking to suppress unreliable or improperly obtained evidence.
- Mistaken Identity — False identifications happen. We use alibi evidence, surveillance footage, and expert testimony to prove you weren’t involved.
- Unfounded Allegations — In some cases, accusations stem from personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. We stop at nothing in Washington, 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 Washington, MO?
Not all law firms near Washington, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Washington, MO, offering:
- Client-Centered Approach: We keep you informed, provide 24/7 access, and ensure you’re never left in the dark about your Washington, MO case.
- Extensive Criminal Law Expertise: With decades of success in courts throughout the Washington, MO area, we know how to navigate even the toughest cases.
- Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in Washington, MO.
- Trial Ready: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in Washington, MO.
Franklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Franklin County and Missouri.
What Are the Penalties for a Violent Crime Conviction in Washington, MO?
Violent crimes carry severe consequences in Washington, 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 Washington, MO, including:
- A felony record that follows you for life
- To face losing your professional license and your career
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation

Protect Your Future By Contacting a Washington, MO Violent Crime Lawyer Today
A violent crime charge in Washington, 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.
Don’t wait—call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free consultation in Washington, MO.

