West Plains, MO

Homicide lawyer in West Plains, MO. Facing a homicide charge in West Plains, MO is probably one of the most critical legal challenges anyone can endure. These accusations carry harsh punishments, including extended jail time or even the possibility of the death penalty. If you’ve been charged with homicide in West Plains, MO or anywhere in Missouri, speaking with an experienced homicide lawyer right away is essential.

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 West Plains, MO Homicide Charges

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

First-degree murder is the most serious homicide charge, involving a deliberate and premeditated act. This offense is classified as a class A felony, often resulting in a life sentence without the possibility of parole, or even the death penalty, depending on the details of the case.

Second-Degree Murder

Second-degree murder involves an intentional killing that was not premeditated. Also a class A felony, this offense can carry prison sentences ranging from 10 to 30 years, or even life. This differs from the first degree in that you may qualify for parole after serving more than 85 percent of the sentence.

Manslaughter:

Manslaughter refers to the unlawful killing of another individual without the intent to kill. It can be either voluntary – in the heat of passion – or involuntary – due to reckless or negligent behavior. Manslaughter is 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 Do I Do If I’m Accused Of Homicide in West Plains, MO?

Homicide is a manner of death, when one individual causes 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.

Being accused of homicide in West Plains, MO is a serious issue. It’s vital to know what actions to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted. Our knowledgeable homicide legal team in West Plains, MO suggests the following steps:

• Consult a Lawyer: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in West Plains, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A good lawyer can 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.
• Keep Quiet: When police say “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” while reading you 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 West Plains, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Sadly, in our current climate, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This stigma can negatively affect your mental well-being and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte West Plains, MO homicide attorney is aware of the challenges you’re facing and can help you find hope amid adversity.

The Importance of Hiring a Combs Waterkotte West Plains, MO Homicide Lawyer

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in West Plains, MO. You shouldn’t gamble with your future or choose a lawyer based on an advertisement. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can be the difference between a reduced sentence or freedom and a life behind bars. Here’s how the West Plains, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:

• Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will conduct an exhaustive investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and any other pertinent information. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our dedicated homicide lawyers will meticulously analyze 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 West Plains, 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. Our West Plains, MO criminal defense attorneys have unfortunately encountered numerous instances where our clients’ rights were violated. We do everything in our power to protect your rights and future. Here are three frequently violated rights during West Plains, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Violations of Due Process: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, 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. 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 infringes on your due process rights.
  • Failure to Read the Miranda Warning: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court established that police must inform you of your rights prior to any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, 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. While waiving these rights is an option, it’s best to assert your right to remain silent and immediately contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer 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 West Plains, MO and beyond. This means they need to provide factual justification for 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 collaborates with a broad array of skilled professionals in and around West Plains, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can call these specialists to challenge key elements of the case, such as the cause of death.
• Negotiate Lesser Charges: An experienced and proactive West Plains, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, especially if the evidence against you is compelling. The Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers always act in your best interest. While they may provide guidance and expert legal advice, the final decision is yours.

When you are accused of homicide in the West Plains, MO area and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best homicide lawyer in West Plains, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for West Plains, 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 West Plains, 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 West Plains, MO homicide attorney right away. Our experienced legal team understands Missouri laws and is dedicated to working tirelessly to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If you’re facing a homicide charge anywhere near West Plains, MO, take action now.

Get in touch with an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in West Plains, 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 case assessment.