Homicide Lawyer Ferguson, MO

Homicide lawyer in Ferguson, MO. Being charged with homicide in Ferguson, 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 Ferguson, MO or anywhere across Missouri, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.

Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with an expert criminal defense attorney. Our legal team has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.

Homicide Charges in Ferguson, MO and Across Missouri

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 Ferguson, 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 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 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 Ferguson, MO?

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

• Hire an Attorney: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney on your side in Ferguson, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A good lawyer can review police reports, collect evidence, speak with witnesses, and build a strong defense. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Give us a call at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Remain Silent: When police say “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” while reading you your Miranda rights, believe them. Making statements 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 Ferguson, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Unfortunately, in today’s society, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This can deeply alter your mental health and lead you to consider actions you might not otherwise contemplate. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte Ferguson, MO homicide lawyer understands what you are going through.

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

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Ferguson, 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. 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 Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team helps in Ferguson, MO:

• Case Investigation: Our homicide legal team will conduct an exhaustive investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic data, witness statements, and any other material. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our dedicated homicide attorneys will scrutinize every detail of the case to find flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. Identifying these weaknesses could lead to a dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a successful acquittal.
• Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: Under Ferguson, 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 Ferguson, 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 Ferguson, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Due Process Violations: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, 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 Provide the Miranda Warning: In the landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that law enforcement must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Officers only need to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. 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 get in touch online.
  • Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment safeguards against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in Ferguson, MO and beyond. This means they must present factual evidence to support their belief that a crime was or is being committed. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
• Secure Expert Testimony: Our team at Combs Waterkotte collaborates with a broad array of experts in and around Ferguson, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
• Advocate for Lesser Charges: An experienced and aggressive Ferguson, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, particularly if the evidence against you is overwhelming. At Combs Waterkotte, our lawyers prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.

If you are accused of homicide in Ferguson, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the best homicide lawyer in Ferguson, 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 offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Ferguson and beyond:

• Drivers License Reinstatement Attorney
• Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
• Weapons Crime Attorney

Contact a Skilled Ferguson, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

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

Contact a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Ferguson, MO today to protect your rights and future while ensuring the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review.