Criminal Defense Attorney Savannah, MO

Criminal defense attorney in Savannah, MO. An arrest or criminal accusation can turn your world upside down — but it doesn’t have to define your future. With an experienced Combs Waterkotte Savannah, MO criminal defense attorney on your side, you’ll have an experienced advocate protecting your rights, your reputation, and your freedom every step of the way.

At Combs Waterkotte, we believe every client deserves a powerful defense and a fair chance to rebuild their life. Our Savannah, MO criminal defense lawyers handle everything from misdemeanors and felonies to complex federal cases. We take a proactive, strategic approach—building your case with precision, compassion, and determination.

With over six decades of combined experience and a proven record of results, our attorneys have successfully represented thousands of clients across Missouri. If you’re facing criminal charges in Savannah, MO, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online today for a free, confidential consultation.

What You’ll Learn on This Page

Facing criminal charges in Savannah, MO can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life — but understanding your rights and options can make all the difference. This page breaks down everything you need to know about criminal defense in Savannah, MO and throughout Missouri, including felony and misdemeanor laws, federal prosecution, sentencing, and how the team at Combs Waterkotte fights to protect your future.

Read on to learn:

• The critical first steps to take after an arrest in Savannah, MO
• How state and federal criminal processes differ—and what that means for you
• The penalties for Savannah, MO felonies and misdemeanors
• How our attorneys defend clients in drug, assault, fraud, DUI, sex crime, and homicide cases
• Why Combs Waterkotte is one of Missouri’s top-rated criminal defense firms
• How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in Savannah, MO.

What You Should Do Right After an Arrest in Savannah, MO

Being arrested in Savannah, MO can be an overwhelming and intimidating experience. Whether it’s your first encounter with the criminal justice system or not, what you do in the moments immediately following your arrest can greatly influence the outcome of your case. Follow these critical steps to protect your rights and strengthen your defense from the very beginning:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Cooperate

Even if you feel the arrest is unjust, stay calm and don’t argue with the police. Resisting arrest, physically or verbally, can quickly lead to additional criminal charges in Savannah, MO. Stay respectful, keep your hands visible, and do not make any sudden moves. How you handle this moment can influence how your case unfolds later.

Step 2: Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

The U.S. Constitution protects your right to remain silent, and it’s one of your most powerful legal tools. After confirming your identity, you are under no obligation to answer questions about the alleged offense. Politely state: “I am exercising my right to remain silent and would like to speak with my attorney.” Do not attempt to explain or defend yourself; even innocent remarks can be misinterpreted and used against you in court.

Step 3: Contact a Savannah, MO Criminal Defense Lawyer Right Away

Before you answer any questions or sign anything, make it clear that you want to speak with your attorney. This is your constitutional right, and invoking it is one of the most important decisions you can make. When you have an experienced Savannah, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte on your side from the very beginning, you can be confident that:

• Police and prosecutors are required to communicate through your attorney
• We make sure your constitutional rights are respected from the beginning
• Our legal team can start building your defense and securing evidence right away in Savannah, MO
• You can reach us 24 hours a day anywhere in the Savannah, MO area and beyond—day or night, weekends and holidays included.

Step 4: Don’t Talk About Your Savannah, MO Case

Do not discuss your arrest or charges with friends, family, or anyone else—especially online or through text. Prosecutors can subpoena social media posts, messages, or even casual statements made to others. Only speak about your Savannah, MO case with your attorney and legal team.

Step 5: Never Agree to a Search Without a Warrant

Police may ask for your consent to search your car, home, or phone in the Savannah, MO area. You have the right to refuse consent unless they present a valid warrant. Politely say, “I do not consent to any searches.”

Unlawful or warrantless searches often lead to suppressed evidence, meaning it cannot be used against you in court.

Step 6: Secure Bail or Release

After booking, you’ll be taken to a detention facility near Savannah, MO. Depending on your charges, you may be eligible for bond or release on recognizance. Our Savannah, MO criminal defense attorneys can:

• File motions to lower your bond amount
• Advocate for release pending trial
• Coordinate with bail bondsmen to expedite your release
• Early release allows you to continue working, caring for family, and helping with your defense

Step 7: Document Everything You Remember

Write down everything about your arrest while it’s still fresh in your mind—what the officers said, when and where you were detained, who witnessed it, and any searches that occurred. These details can be invaluable later in identifying procedural violations, challenging the arrest, or exposing police misconduct.

If you choose a Combs Waterkotte Savannah, MO criminal defense attorney, you’re not just choosing a leading criminal defense attorney in Savannah, MO and beyond – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys, our team is available 24/7 and offers experience and expertise in the following areas for residents in Savannah and beyond:

A Full-Service Savannah, MO Criminal Defense Firm

The dedicated Savannah, MO criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte are equipped to handle any criminal matter—whether you’re dealing with a simple ticket, a misdemeanor offense, or a high-stakes felony or federal charge.

Our Savannah, MO practice areas include:

• DWI Defense
• Assault and Battery
• Domestic Violence
• Drug Charges & Possession
• Drug Trafficking
• Weapons & Gun Crimes
• Sex Crimes
• Theft & Larceny
• Credit Card & Financial Fraud
• Homicide & Manslaughter
• Probation Violations
• Motor Vehicle Tampering
• View all practice areas

Savannah, MO Federal Crime Lawyer You Can Trust

Facing criminal charges at the federal level is a far different, and far more intimidating, experience than state prosecution. Federal prosecutors are backed by immense resources, extensive investigations, and a conviction rate exceeding 90%, according to Pew Research.

At Combs Waterkotte, our Savannah, MO federal criminal defense attorneys have the skill, experience, and tenacity to take on even the toughest opponents—including the U.S. Department of Justice. We defend clients charged with a wide range of federal offenses, such as:

• Federal Drug Trafficking
• Federal Wire Fraud
• Federal Mail Fraud
• Federal Internet Fraud
• Federal Tax Evasions & Fraud
• Federal White Collar Crimes
• Federal Espionage & National Security Violations
• Federal Computer & Cyber Crimes
• Federal Kidnapping
• Federal Embezzlement
• Federal Conspiracy

Federal prosecutors are relentless—their goal is conviction, not compromise. They routinely pressure defendants into plea agreements that carry harsh prison terms and permanent criminal records. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a different approach. Our attorneys meticulously scrutinize every detail of the case, challenge the government’s evidence, uncover procedural violations, and fight to have charges reduced or dismissed long before a plea becomes necessary.

Learn more about how we handle Savannah, MO federal criminal cases, what makes them unique, and how they are different from state cases.

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How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Protect Your Rights and Future

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Savannah Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law

No matter how minor the charge, a criminal conviction in Savannah, MO can follow you for years. Misdemeanors can bring fines, probation, or short jail terms—but felony convictions carry much heavier penalties, including long prison sentences and the loss of important civil rights like voting, gun ownership, and eligibility for certain jobs.

Missouri law bars convicted felons from owning firearms, serving on juries, or holding public office. Many must also disclose their conviction status when applying for jobs or housing, creating lasting barriers even after they’ve served their time.

But there are opportunities for a fresh start. Missouri law allows individuals to restore their rights through expungement, pardons, or record sealing. The Savannah, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore every available legal avenue to rebuild your life and reclaim your future.

Felony Classifications and Penalties in Savannah, MO

In Missouri, felony charges are categorized by severity, with each class carrying its own sentencing range and potential consequences:

• Class A Felony — 10 to 30 years in state prison, or life imprisonment
• Class B Felony — 5 to 15 years in prison
• Class C Felony — 3 to 10 years in prison
• Class D Felony — no more than 7 years in prison
• Class E Felony — up to 4 years in prison

Certain aggravating factors, such as using a weapon, prior convictions, or crimes involving hate-based motives, can raise a charge to a higher class, resulting in harsher penalties. However, an experienced Savannah, MO criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction in charges, secure a diversion program, or even achieve a full dismissal depending on the circumstances of your case.

Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in Savannah, MO

In Missouri, misdemeanor charges are divided into four distinct classes, each carrying its own range of possible penalties:

• Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail and/or fines up to $2,000
• Class B Misdemeanor — Up to 6 months in jail; a fine of up to $1,000
• Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail and fines up to $700
• Class D Misdemeanor — A fine of up to $500

The good news? Many misdemeanor offenders are eligible for alternatives to jail — such as probation, diversion programs, or record expungement. The dedicated Savannah, MO defense team at Combs Waterkotte will fight to keep your record clean and your life on track.

Why Choose Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Attorney in Savannah, MO?

Not all Savannah, MO criminal defense lawyers are created equal. Our legal team’s approach to defense is built on client focus, trial readiness, unmatched resources, and over six decades of combined expertise:

• Personal Attention, 24/7: We’re available 24/7 for our clients in Savannah, MO. Our attorneys take the time to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through every stage of the process. You’re not just a case number—you’re our priority.
• Trial-Ready Defense: Every case is prepared as if it’s going to trial. That level of readiness gives us the leverage to negotiate from a position of strength and the confidence to go the distance when necessary.
• Extensive Resources: Our firm works with expert witnesses, investigators, and forensic specialists to find the facts others overlook, and to expose flaws in the prosecution’s case.
• Proven Local Experience in Savannah. MO: Our attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and court systems throughout Savannah, MO, allowing us to tailor defense strategies that work effectively in your jurisdiction.

When your future is at stake, you deserve a Savannah, MO defense team that’s experienced, aggressive, and completely committed to protecting your freedom.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Savannah, MO

I was just arrested in Savannah, MO. What should I do?

The most important thing is to stay calm and say nothing until you speak with a lawyer. Anything you say could be used against you. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact Combs Waterkotte immediately—our team can guide you through what to expect, handle communications with law enforcement, and start building your defense from day one.

How are state and federal criminal charges different?

State charges are handled by Missouri courts and usually involve violations of state laws. Federal charges, on the other hand, are prosecuted by U.S. attorneys and often involve interstate activity or federal agencies. Federal cases carry stricter sentencing guidelines and typically require more extensive defense strategies.

Can I stay out of jail if I’m charged with a crime in Savannah, MO?

Yes. Depending on the circumstances, our experienced Savannah, MO criminal defense attorneys may be able to negotiate alternatives such as probation, deferred sentencing, diversion programs, or rehabilitation options, particularly for first-time or non-violent offenses.

Does a criminal conviction stay on my record forever?

Not always. Missouri gives many people a second chance through the expungement process. Depending on your case, you may be eligible to have your record sealed or cleared after a waiting period. Our Savannah, MO criminal defense attorneys can help you find out if you qualify and take steps to restore your reputation.

What if I’ve been charged with a felony but have no prior offenses?

Judges often consider lack of prior convictions as a mitigating factor. With the right representation, your Savannah, MO attorney can argue for reduced penalties, probation, or even case dismissal.

Can Combs Waterkotte still help if I already pled guilty?

Yes. Our attorneys regularly handle post-conviction relief cases, including appeals, motions for sentence reduction, and other remedies. Contact us right away—strict time limits may apply to your case, so acting quickly is essential.

Take Charge of Your Future — Call Combs Waterkotte, Your Trusted Savannah, MO Criminal Defense Lawyers Right Away

Choosing the right lawyer can make the difference between your case being ended favorably and you spending time behind bars. Don’t risk your freedom or your future with an inexperienced attorney or a public defender overloaded with cases. Unlike other criminal Savannah, MO defense attorneys, we aren’t afraid of doing whatever it takes to prove your innocence—including going to trial.

Our clients are never just case numbers. You’ll have direct access to your Savannah, MO criminal defense lawyer 24/7, no matter the hour, day, or circumstance.

Don’t gamble with your future. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule your free case review. We’re ready to start building your defense and protecting your freedom—today.