University City, MO

Homicide lawyer in University City, MO. Facing a homicide charge in University City, MO is one of the most severe legal challenges anyone can encounter. These charges carry serious consequences, including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty. If you have been accused of homicide in University City, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you need to speak with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.

Contact Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free, one-on-one consultation. You’ll have the chance to discuss the specifics of your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our seasoned team has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.

The Different Types of University City, 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 University City, 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 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 refers to the act of causing someone’s death through reckless or negligent driving. Charges may range from a misdemeanor to a felony, and the penalties for vehicular manslaughter depend on whether substances like drugs or alcohol, or factors such as extreme recklessness, were involved.

What Should I Do If I’m Charged with Homicide in University City, 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 insanity.

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

• Hire an Attorney: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer on your side in University City, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can review police reports, gather critical evidence, talk to witnesses, and create a robust defense strategy. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Reach us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Keep Quiet: When police advise you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” as they read your Miranda rights, take that seriously. Making an ill-timed statement during an investigation can significantly impact the outcome of your case and provide prosecutors with evidence to establish your guilt. Having a good criminal defense lawyer in University City, MO is critical in this regard, as you would want to tell the truth but in the correct way.
• Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Sadly, in this day and age, being accused of a crime can lead many to presume your guilty. This perception can significantly impact your mental health and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Thankfully, your Combs Waterkotte University City, MO homicide lawyer understands what you are going through.

The Significance of Choosing a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in University City, MO

Facing homicide charges in or around University City, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. You can’t leave this to chance or to a lawyer found on a billboard or bus stop. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney could determine whether you receive a reduced sentence, achieve freedom, or face life imprisonment. Here’s how the Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team can support you in University City, MO:

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will initiate a detailed investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, reviewing police reports, forensic data, witness accounts, and any other pertinent information. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our dedicated homicide lawyers will examine every detail of the case to find flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a successful acquittal.
• Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: Under University City, MO and Missouri law, as well as the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights, you possess specific rights. These rights are essential for ensuring a fair and impartial justice system. Unfortunately, our University City, 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 University City, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Violations of Due Process: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, you are entitled to due process, ensuring fair treatment throughout 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. Withholding it is a violation of your due process rights.
  • Failure to Read the Miranda Warning: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes the 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 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 against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in University City, MO and beyond. This means they must provide 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: Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of experts in the University City, MO area, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these specialists to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
• Negotiate Lesser Charges: A skilled and aggressive University City, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, particularly 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.

When you are facing homicide charges in or around University City, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the best homicide lawyer in University City, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for University City, 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

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

As homicide in University City, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in University City, MO immediately. Our experienced legal team has a deep understanding of 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 University City, MO, don’t delay.

Get in touch with an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in University City, 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 free, no-obligation case assessment.