Columbia, MO

Homicide lawyer in Columbia, MO. Being charged with homicide in Columbia, MO is one of the most serious legal battles you could ever face. The penalties can be life-altering, ranging from long-term imprisonment to capital punishment. If you’ve been accused of homicide in Columbia, MO or anywhere across Missouri, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.

Don’t hesitate to call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. Discuss your case in detail with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our firm has handled more than 10,000 cases like yours with proven results.

Types of Homicide Charges in Columbia, MO and Throughout Missouri

Homicide charges can differ based on the intent and situation surrounding the killing. It’s essential to grasp the various types of homicide charges that may be relevant:

First-Degree Murder

The most serious of homicide charges, first-degree murder involves a premeditated, intentional killing. This is class A felony, often carrying life imprisonment without eligibility for probation or parole, or even the death penalty depending on the circumstances.

Second-Degree Murder

Second-degree murder encompasses intentional killings that occur without premeditation. This charge is also a class A felony and can lead to sentences of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment. Unlike murder in the first degree, individuals convicted of this crime may qualify for parole after serving at least 85 percent of their sentence.

Manslaughter:

Manslaughter is defined as the unlawful killing of another individual without the intention to take their life. It can be classified as voluntary – occurring in a moment of passion – or involuntary – resulting from reckless or negligent conduct. Manslaughter is categorized as a class B or class C felony.

Vehicular Manslaughter

This charge involves causing the death of another through reckless or negligent driving. The charges can vary from a misdemeanor to a felony, with penalties depending on whether drugs, alcohol, or extreme recklessness were factors.

What Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in Columbia, MO?

Homicide refers to the act of one individual causing the death of another. Not all homicide is murder though, as some deaths caused by another individual are manslaughter, and some are lawful – like when justified by an affirmative defense, such as insanity or self-defense.

If you’re accused of homicide in Columbia, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Columbia, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:

• Hire an Attorney: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Columbia, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A qualified attorney can review police reports, collect evidence, talk to witnesses, and develop a robust defense strategy. They can also seek ways to have charges reduced or dismissed and formulate an effective trial strategy. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Keep Quiet: When police say “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” as they read your Miranda rights, heed their warning. Saying the wrong thing during an investigation can significantly impact the outcome of your case and provide prosecutors with evidence to establish your guilt. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Columbia, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Unfortunately, in today’s society, being accused of a crime can lead many to presume your guilty. This perception can significantly impact your mental health and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Thankfully, your Combs Waterkotte Columbia, MO homicide attorney understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.

The Importance of Hiring a Combs Waterkotte Columbia, MO Homicide Lawyer

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Columbia, MO. It’s critical not to leave your future to chance or to rely on a lawyer whose name you saw on a billboard or bus stop. Securing a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can mean the difference between a lighter sentence or even freedom and spending years in prison. Here’s how the Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team can support you in Columbia, MO:

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will initiate a detailed investigation into your case, examining police documents, forensic data, witness testimonies, and any other material. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our relentless homicide attorneys will scrutinize every aspect of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. Identifying these weaknesses could lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or a not-guilty verdict.
• Ensure Your Rights are Protected: You have certain rights guaranteed by Columbia, MO and Missouri law, as well as by the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights protect you and help ensure that our justice system remains fair and impartial. Unfortunately, our Columbia, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We do everything in our power to protect your rights and future. Here are three frequently violated rights during Columbia, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Violations of Due Process: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you are entitled to due process, ensuring fair treatment in the legal system. This means you’re entitled to receive notice of the charges against you and the opportunity to respond. Additionally, you have the right to an impartial judge or jury to determine your guilt or innocence. Prosecutors must provide all exculpatory evidence, and failing to do so constitutes a violation of your due process rights.
  • Failure to Read the Miranda Warning: In the landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that police must inform you of your rights prior to any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to a lawyer, as well as a warning that anything you say can be used against you in court. Officers are only required to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. While you can waive these rights, it’s not advisable. Instead, assert your right to remain silent and contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
  • Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Columbia, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they need to present facts justifying their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
• Provide Expert Witnesses: Our team at Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of experts in the Columbia, MO area, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
• Advocate for Lesser Charges: A talented and aggressive Columbia, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, especially if the evidence against you is compelling. At Combs Waterkotte, our attorneys prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.

If you are facing homicide charges in the Columbia, MO area and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the best homicide lawyer in Columbia, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Columbia, MO residents:

• Assault Lawyer
• Rape Defense Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer

Reach Out to an Expert Columbia, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

Since homicide is a serious felony crime, it’s essential for anyone facing these charges to speak with a Columbia, MO homicide attorney right away. Our experienced legal team understands Missouri laws and is committed to doing everything possible to have your charges reduced or dropped. If you’re facing a homicide charge anywhere near Columbia, MO, don’t delay.

Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Columbia, MO now to protect your rights, your future, and to secure the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, no-obligation case review.