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Pettis County, MO

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Last Updated: April 15, 2025

Weapons crime attorney in Pettis County, MO. Have you been charged with a weapons crime in Pettis County, MO? Don’t leave your freedom to chance. When you’re accused of a gun or weapons offense, your rights, your reputation, and your future are all on the line. You need a trusted, experienced weapons crime attorney in Pettis County, MO who knows how to fight for you—and win.

The lawyers at Combs Waterkotte understand the serious nature of these charges. With more than 50 years of combined experience and a proven track record in weapons and gun defense cases, we use tailored defense strategies to challenge the prosecution and fight for the best possible outcome.

Don’t wait—call our Pettis County, MO weapons crime attorneys right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for your free, confidential consultation. We’ve successfully handled 10,000+ cases just like yours in Pettis County, MO and beyond.

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Article Summary

If you’ve been charged with a weapons crime in Pettis County, MO, don’t risk your freedom—turn to the trusted team at Combs Waterkotte. Our experienced Pettis County, MO weapons crime attorneys aggressively defend clients facing gun charges, unlawful use of weapons, armed criminal action, and other firearm-related offenses throughout the Pettis County, MO area. We build powerful defenses, challenge unlawful searches, and fight for reduced charges, dismissals, or acquittals. Whether you’re dealing with accusations of possession, use, or trafficking of firearms, read on to see how Combs Waterkotte provides the experience and skill you need to:

  • Take the first step in protecting your freedom by contacting the right attorney in Pettis County, MO.
  • Understand the importance of acting quickly after being charged.
  • Know your rights, no matter the charge.
  • Navigate the complexities of Pettis County, MO weapons laws.
  • Recognize the severity of penalties tied to weapons crimes.

Weapons Crime Attorney in Pettis County, MO: What is a Weapons Crime in Missouri?

Our experienced Pettis County, MO weapons crime attorneys have seen it all—from minor infractions to serious felony gun cases. We have handled the following types of cases and more:

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm in Pettis County, MO

According to Missouri Revised Statute § 571.070, it is illegal to possess a gun in Pettis County, MO, if:

  • You’ve been convicted of a felony
  • You’re under the legal age
  • You’re in a category of people prohibited from gun ownership
  • You’re violating federal law regarding firearm possession

This charge is often a Class C felony, but it can be boosted to a Class B felony for individuals with prior convictions. Being charged with unlawful possession is serious—speak with a trusted Pettis County, MO criminal defense attorney who can help protect your future and challenge the charges head-on.

Unlawful Use of a Weapon in in or Around Pettis County, MO

Unlawful use of a weapon is one of the most common weapons-related charges filled in the Pettis County, MO area, and it can occur under a wide range of circumstances, including:

  • Discharging a firearm in a restricted area or while impaired by drugs or alcohol
  • Flashing or brandishing a gun in a way that alarms or threatens others
  • Illegally carrying a concealed weapon without a permit
  • Bringing a firearm into prohibited locations
  • Committing other crimes like burglary, assault, or drug distribution while armed
  • Using or owning weapons with illegal alterations or attachments

The consequences in Pettis County, MO can be life-altering. Charges can range from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A felony with decades—or a lifetime—behind bars.

Don’t roll the dice with your freedom. Call Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to speak with a weapons crime attorney in Pettis County, MO who can help get you the best possible outcome.

Pettis County, MO Armed Criminal Action

Armed criminal action occurs when a weapon is used or visibly displayed during the commission of a felony offense. While not a separate crime on its own in Pettis County, MO, this charge enhances penalties tied to underlying felonies such as:

Missouri’s sentencing is strict:

  • First offense: 3-year minimum
  • Second offense: At least 5 years
  • Third offense: 10+ years

Defaced Firearm Possession in or Around Pettis County, MO

Owning a gun with a tampered serial number—known as a defaced firearm—can lead to serious trouble in Pettis County, MO. It’s a Class B misdemeanor, but the implications are long-term: it can permanently affect your gun rights and your record.

Unlawful Weapon Sales, Transfers, or Trafficking in or Around Pettis County, MO

It’s unlawful to sell, loan, or transfer a weapon to someone who is prohibited from possessing one in Pettis County, MO. These violations often involve:

  • Selling or gifting firearms to minors
  • Providing weapons to convicted felons
  • Selling a firearm without verifying eligibility

Depending on the circumstances, the offense may be charged as a Class A misdemeanor or a Class E felony. A knowledgeable Pettis County, MO weapons crime attorney at Combs Waterkotte can help you avoid the worst-case scenario.


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    Arrested for a Weapons Crime in Pettis County, MO? Here’s Your Next Move

    If you’re under investigation or already facing charges in Pettis County, MO, it’s important to act fast:

    1. Stay calm and don’t speak with police or investigators before calling a lawyer.
    2. Reach out to our office as soon as possible for a free consultation.
    3. Let us review your case in Pettis County, MO, protect your rights, and start building your defense.

    Time is critical in Pettis County, MO weapons cases. The sooner you involve our expert weapons crime attorney, the more options we’ll have to reduce or eliminate the charges against you.

    Weapons Crime Attorney  Pettis County, MO | Leading Missouri Criminal Defense Law Firm | Pettis County, MO Criminal Defense Lawyers

    Weapons Crime Attorney in Pettis County, MO: Why Hiring a Skilled Lawyer is Crucial

    Weapons charges in Pettis County, MO can result in heavy fines, jail or prison time, loss of firearm rights, and a permanent criminal record. But with the right legal representation, your story doesn’t have to end there.

    Here’s how an experienced Pettis County, MO weapons crime attorney helps protect you:

    • Immediate Protection of Your Rights
    • Investigating the prosecution’s claims and gathering critical evidence
    • Challenging Unlawful Searches or Arrests
    • Negotiating for Reduced or Dismissed Charges
    • Defend you in court with a strong, personalized strategy

    We understand what’s at stake—and we’re here to fight for your second chance in Pettis County, MO.

    Weapons Crime Attorney in Pettis County, MO: Possible Defenses

    At Combs Waterkotte, no two cases are alike—but our Pettis County, MO weapons crime defense team has successfully used a wide range of defenses to protect clients’ rights and freedom:

    • Self-Defense or Defense of Others Missouri laws like Stand Your Ground statute and Castle Doctrine protect your right to defend yourself. If you acted out of fear for your life or safety, we’ll work to prove it.
    • Unlawful Search or Seizure We can utilize this defense if the weapon was found during a search that violated your Fourth Amendment rights in Pettis County, MO, such as:
      • No warrant
      • No probable cause
      • An unlawful traffic stop
    • Lack of Intent or Knowledge This defense is useful in proving that you were unaware you were in possession of a weapon, like if it was planted in your possession or if someone else left it in your vehicle or home. You had no intent to use the weapon unlawfully.
    • Other Defenses — You may also have a solid defense based on alibi, entrapment, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence. Every detail matters in Pettis County, MO.

    When you choose a Combs Waterkotte Pettis County, MO weapons crime attorney, you’re not just hiring the ideal weapons crime defense team in Pettis County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to knowledgeable weapons crime lawyers, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Pettis County and beyond:

    Weapons Crime Attorney in Pettis County, MO | Skilled Missouri Criminal Defense Lawyers | Pettis County, MO Weapons Defense Law Firm

    Charged With a Weapons Crime in Pettis County, MO?—Combs Waterkotte is on Your Side

    Weapons charges can turn your life upside down—but you don’t have to face them alone. Our experienced Pettis County, MO weapons crime attorneys are ready to take action on your behalf. Whether it’s negotiating the best possible resolution or defending you in court, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way.

    Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a case review where you can get answers from a Pettis County, MO weapons crime attorney who cares.

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