Richmond, MO

Homicide lawyer in Richmond, MO. Being charged with homicide in Richmond, 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 Richmond, 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.

The Different Types of Richmond, MO Homicide Charges

Homicide charges can differ significantly based on the circumstances surrounding the act and the intent behind it. Understanding the various types of homicide charges in Richmond, MO that may apply is crucial:

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 the unlawful killing of someone without the intent to end their life. It can be categorized as voluntary – triggered by a sudden emotional reaction – or involuntary – resulting from careless or reckless actions. This offense is classified 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 Richmond, MO?

Homicide is a manner of death, when one individual causes the death of another. However, not all instances of homicide quality as murder; some may be classified as manslaughter, while others may be deemed lawful, such as cases involving an affirmative defense like self-defense or mental incapacity.

If you are facing homicide charges in Richmond, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Richmond, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:

• Contact a Lawyer: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Richmond, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A good lawyer can help review police reports, collect evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong defense. They can also seek ways to have charges reduced or dismissed and formulate an effective trial strategy. Give us a call at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Remain Silent: When police advise you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” while reading you your Miranda rights, take that seriously. Making an ill-timed statement during investigations could potentially change the outcome of your case and give prosecutors ample material to prove guilt. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Richmond, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Understand You are Innocent Until Proven Guilty: Sadly, in our current climate, 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 Richmond, MO homicide lawyer understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.

Why You Should Hire a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Richmond, MO

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Richmond, MO. You can’t leave this to chance or to a lawyer found on a billboard or bus stop. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can mean the difference between a lighter sentence or even freedom and spending years in prison. Here’s how the Richmond, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:

• Case Investigation: Our homicide legal team will conduct an exhaustive investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, examining police reports, forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and any other material. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• Spot Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Argument: 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 an acquittal.
• Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: Under Richmond, MO and Missouri law, as well as the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights, you possess specific rights. These rights protect you and help ensure that our justice system remains fair and impartial. Unfortunately, our Richmond, 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 Richmond, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Due Process Violations: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you have the right to due process, ensuring fair treatment in the legal system. This includes being informed of the charges against you and having the chance to respond. You also have the right to an unbiased judge or jury to evaluate your guilt or innocence. Prosecutors must provide all exculpatory evidence, and failing to do so infringes on your due process rights.
  • Failure to Provide the Miranda Warning: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that police must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, the right to a lawyer, as well as a warning that anything you say can be used against you in court. Police only need to read your Miranda rights if they are detaining you and intend to use your statements in a court of law. Although you may waive these rights, it’s advisable to assert your right to remain silent and contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
  • Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Richmond, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they must present factual justification for their belief that a crime was or is being committed. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
• Provide Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of skilled professionals in and around Richmond, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can call these specialists to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
• Negotiate Lesser Charges: A talented and proactive Richmond, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, especially if the evidence against you is overwhelming. 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 Richmond, MO area and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal homicide lawyer in Richmond, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our experienced homicide attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Richmond and beyond:

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

Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Richmond, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

Given the severity of homicide charges, it’s crucial for anyone facing such allegations to consult a Richmond, MO homicide lawyer as soon as possible. Our experienced legal team is well-versed in Missouri laws and is dedicated to working tirelessly to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If you’re confronted with a homicide charge in or around Richmond, MO, take action now.

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