Violent crimes lawyer in Dearborn, MO. Being charged with a violent crime is one of the most serious legal situations you can face in the Dearborn, MO area. The prosecution will come after you with everything it has—seeking maximum penalties, prison time, and a criminal record that follows you for life. You need more than just legal representation in Dearborn, MO, you need a relentless criminal defense attorney with the skill and strategy to challenge the state’s case and protect your future.
The Dearborn, MO violent crimes lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have decades of experience defending clients against charges like assault, homicide, and armed robbery. We’re known for our trial readiness, attention to detail, and ability to dismantle weak evidence. With 50+ years of combined experience, we know how to fight—and win—serious criminal cases.
Call our Dearborn, MO defense team right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free and confidential consultation.
Article Summary
If you’re facing violent crime charges in Dearborn, MO, your freedom, future, and reputation are all in doubt. At Combs Waterkotte, our seasoned criminal defense attorneys are known for aggressively defending clients accused of assault, robbery, murder, domestic violence, and other serious offenses. This in-depth page explains how we dig deep into the facts, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and build strategic defenses tailored to each client’s situation. Whether you’re being investigated or already charged, we’re ready to fight for your rights from day one in the Dearborn, MO area.
Don’t go it alone. Put an experienced legal team on your side today.
What is Considered a Violent Crime in Dearborn, MO?
Under Missouri law, a violent crime is typically one where force or the threat of force is used against another individual. These offenses may involve direct harm, such as assault or murder, or the use of violence to facilitate another crime, like kidnapping or robbery.
Examples of violent crimes charged in Dearborn, MO include:
- Assault & Battery: Assault refers to the attempt or threat to cause harm, while battery involves actual offensive or harmful contact. There are four degrees of assault, with charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies, depending on severity. Missouri does not establish a separate law for battery. Instead, what might be considered battery in another state is included under the assault laws.
- Domestic Violence: Includes any abusive conduct—physical, emotional, or verbal—within a household or intimate relationship. Often includes charges like stalking, assault, harassment, or neglect.
- Murder/Homicide: The most serious violent offense. First-degree murder may carry a life sentence or death penalty, while second-degree murder is still a Class A felony with decades in prison.
- Kidnapping: The unlawful confinement or abduction of an individual for purposes like sexual assault, ransom, or forced labor. This is a felony offense that can carry life sentences.
- Child Abuse: Encompasses physical, emotional, or sexual harm inflicted on a child. Charges range from misdemeanors to serious felonies based on the nature and extent of harm.
- Armed Robbery: The use of a weapon to steal or intimidate during a theft. Often charged as aggravated robbery and treated as a felony offense with enhanced sentencing.
- Vehicular Manslaughter: Occurs when someone causes a death through reckless or negligent driving, such as driving under the influence or violating traffic laws.
What to Do If You’re Accused of Violent Crimes in Dearborn, MO
Whether you’ve been arrested for a violent crime in Dearborn, MO or are under investigation, your next steps are critical. Here’s what the violent crimes defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte recommend:
- Step 1: Contact a Combs Waterkotte Defense Attorney Immediately
Early legal help gives you the best chance to shape your defense. Our attorneys can intervene before formal charges are filed, review police procedures, and start developing a strong case. We’re available 24/7—call (314) 900-HELP or connect with us online now. - Step 2: Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Even if you believe you’re innocent, it’s vital to exercise your right to remain silent. What you say during questioning can be twisted or taken out of context—wait until your lawyer is present to avoid damaging your case. - Step 3: Gather Any Evidence
If you possess any evidence supporting your innocence, like text messages, videos, emails, or witness contacts, be sure to share them with your lawyer right away. - Step 4: Don’t Let the Charges Define You
The justice system guarantees the presumption of innocence, no matter what you’re accused of. Our Dearborn, MO violent crimes attorneys will help you face the charges with confidence and build a strategy tailored to your situation.
What are the Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in Dearborn, MO?
Violent crime convictions in Dearborn, MO often come with life-changing legal and personal consequences. In addition to incarceration, you may face:
- Years—or even life—in prison, with no guarantee of early release
- Strict, long-term probation with intrusive conditions
- Significant fines, restitution to victims, and court fees
- A permanent felony record
- Loss of fundamental rights, including the right to vote or own firearms
- Barriers to employment, professional licensing, or rental housing in the Dearborn, MO area
- Irreversible damage to your name, relationships, and future
And remember, even if you aren’t convicted, simply being charged with a violent crime can leave a lasting stain on your reputation. That’s why working with a seasoned Dearborn, MO violent crimes attorney is crucial from day one.
Know Your Rights Following a Violent Crime Charge in Dearborn, MO
Being charged with a violent crime in Dearborn, MO can feel daunting. However, no matter the severity of the accusation, the law still protects you. Understanding your rights isn’t just crucial, it can change the entire outcome of your case. The Combs Waterkotte defense attorneys make sure those rights are not just protected, but powerfully enforced at every step:
- Stay Silent, Stay Protected.
- You Deserve the Right Lawyer.
- You Have the Right to a Fair Trial — Demand it.
- You May Qualify for Bail — We Fight to Get You Home.
- You Have the Right to Challenge Evidence — We Do it Relentlessly.
You are not required to speak to law enforcement. In fact, you shouldn’t. Anything you say can be twisted or taken out of context. By remaining silent and requesting legal counsel, you protect yourself from early missteps that could hurt your case.
Not all defense lawyers are equal. The moment you’re charged, you need experienced legal representation that knows how to fight back. At Combs Waterkotte, we immediately assess the state’s evidence, investigate independently, and craft a defense strategy that protects your freedom, future, and reputation.
From jury selection to cross-examination, your trial must be fair. We make sure your side is heard and every constitutional protection is honored. That means exposing weak evidence, challenging biased witnesses, and using every legal tool available to protect your rights.
Pretrial incarceration is not automatic. We advocate for your release through reduced bail or personal recognizance, allowing you to return to your family, work, and life while we build your case.
Sloppy police work? Mishandled lab tests? Illegal searches? We look for all of it—and if there’s a flaw, we use it to your advantage.
How Combs Waterkotte Fights Violent Crime Charges in Dearborn, MO
No two violent crime cases are alike—and neither are our defense strategies. At Combs Waterkotte, our Dearborn, MO violent crimes attorneys take an aggressive, case-specific approach that’s tailored to your circumstances and legal goals. We dig deep, move fast, and leave nothing to chance. Your defense may include:
- Challenging the legality of your arrest, including lack of probable cause
- Identifying constitutional violations, such as unlawful searches or coerced statements
- Locating key witnesses and collecting evidence that supports your defense
- Negotiating with prosecutors to seek a charge reduction, diversion, or dismissal
- Building a trial-ready case and defending you aggressively in court
What Makes Combs Waterkotte the Right Choice in Dearborn, MO
When you’re charged with a violent crime, there’s no room for error—you need attorneys who know how to win. At Combs Waterkotte, we approach every case with fierce advocacy and a client-first commitment that has earned us trust throughout Dearborn, MO and beyond. Our violent crime lawyers bring the following to your defense:
- Meticulous trial prep from day one—not just if your case goes to court
- 5+ decades of experience defending violent crime charges in Dearborn and across Missouri
- Deep familiarity with local Dearborn, MO court systems and legal processes
- A track record of wins: dismissals, acquittals, and not-guilty decisions
- Former prosecutors who know how the state builds cases
When you choose a Combs Waterkotte Dearborn, MO violent crimes lawyer, you’re not just choosing the ideal violent crimes lawyer in and around Dearborn, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to experienced violent crimes attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for Dearborn, MO residents:
- Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
- Order of Protection Defense Lawyers
- DWI/DUI Lawyer
- Criminal Defense Lawyers
Contact Combs Waterkotte to Speak With a Dearborn, MO Violent Crimes Lawyer Today
Don’t wait to get help. The sooner you involve an experienced defense attorney, the better your chances of avoiding a conviction, or minimizing the damage. At Combs Waterkotte, we offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your rights and start building your defense immediately.
Call us at (314) 900-HELP or connect with us online to speak with a violent crimes lawyer in Dearborn, MO today.
