Moberly, MO

Homicide lawyer in Moberly, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Moberly, 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 Moberly, MO or anywhere in Missouri, speaking with an experienced homicide lawyer right away is essential.

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 Moberly, 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 Moberly, 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 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 involves causing an individual’s death through reckless or negligent driving. Charges range from a misdemeanor to a felony, and penalties for vehicular manslaughter vary depending on whether drugs, alcohol, or extreme recklessness were involved.

What Do I Do If I’m Accused Of Homicide in Moberly, MO?

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

• Hire an Attorney: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney on your side in Moberly, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can analyze police reports, collect critical evidence, interview witnesses, and create a solid defense. They can also look for potential ways to get your charges reduced or outright dismissed, or plan an effective, winning trial strategy. Give us a call 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” while reading you your Miranda rights, take that seriously. 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 Moberly, 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 can deeply alter your mental well-being and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Moberly, MO homicide lawyer understands what you are going through.

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

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Moberly, MO. You shouldn’t gamble with your future or choose a lawyer based on an advertisement. 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 Moberly, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide legal team will conduct an exhaustive 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 effectively challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Spot Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Argument: Our tenacious homicide attorneys will scrutinize every detail of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may lead to a dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a successful acquittal.
• Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: Under Moberly, 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 Moberly, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing your future throughout the Moberly, MO area. Here are three frequently violated rights during Moberly, 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 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. 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 determined that law enforcement must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Police only need to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. 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 get in touch online.
  • Unlawful 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 Moberly, 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.
• Secure Expert Testimony: Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of experts in the Moberly, MO area, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to challenge key elements of the case, such as the cause of death.
• Negotiate Lesser Charges: An experienced and aggressive Moberly, 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’re accused of homicide in the Moberly, MO area and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading homicide lawyer in Moberly, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Moberly and beyond:

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

Reach Out to an Expert Moberly, 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 Moberly, MO homicide attorney right away. Our experienced legal team is well-versed in Missouri laws and will do everything in its power to make sure your charges are dropped or reduced. If you’re dealing with a homicide charge in or around Moberly, MO, take action now.

Contact a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Moberly, MO now to protect your rights and future while ensuring the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a no-obligation case assessment.