The Importance of Hiring a Skilled Defense Attorney inDeKalb County, MO

DeKalb County, MO Defense Attorney. When facing the potential of a criminal conviction, who among us wouldn’t be frightened, stressed, or possibly even tempted to run and ignore reality? Put frankly, it’s a big deal and the consequences — regardless of your actual guilt — can be severe. However, hiring a defense attorney can improve your chances of a positive outcome and provide you with support and guidance throughout the process.

If you are facing criminal charges, hiring a skilled defense attorney can be one of the most critical decisions you make. It is crucial not only to have legal representation, but also to select an attorney you trust and feel comfortable with, one who is knowledgeable and skilled in cases like yours.

Combs Waterkotte has a team of attorneys and legal assistants who serve people who have been accused of crimes in courts across DeKalb County and throughout the state of Missouri. Find out how we can help you with your criminal case by calling (314) 900-HELP or contacting us online now.

The Essential Role of Your DeKalb County, MO Defense Attorney

As your defense attorney, our team is tasked with preserving your legal rights and interests during the course of the criminal justice process. We abide by the highest standard and guarantee that you receive fair treatment, from your Miranda rights during the arrest and the prosecution’s use of evidence.

On top of protecting your basic constitutional rights, we strive to help resolve your case while minimizing the impact of the legal consequences on your life. Depending on the situation and the charges, we will fight for the ideal outcome, which might be receiving a lesser sentence, reducing the charges reduced to lesser crimes, getting the case dismissed entirely, defeating the charges at trial, or working out a plea deal.

Your Combs Waterkotte legal defense team works tirelessly to scrutinize the evidence presented in the allegations against you. From interviewing witnesses and consulting with topical experts to negotiating with the prosecuting attorneys, when you hire us, we are devoted to building a strong defense. And when it comes time for court proceedings to take place, we are right there with you (or there on your behalf), offering legal counsel, representation and support during plea negotiations, pre-trial hearings, and trials.

Why Hire a Defense Attorney?

When suspected of a crime, hiring a strong defense attorney in DeKalb County, MO is crucial. Combs Waterkotte’s defense attorneys bring years of specialized expertise, training, and records of success in Missouri criminal cases similar to yours and will lead you through the legal process.

When you hire the right criminal defense lawyer in DeKalb County, MO, we will:

• Enforce your rights: As your DeKalb County, MO area defense attorney, we look out for your best interests and protect you throughout the criminal justice process. Behaviors such as unlawful search and seizure, coerced confessions, or other infringements are against the protections put into law to protect you when accused of a crime. We hold Missouri courts accountable when they violate your rights.
• Investigate your case: One of the duties of a defense attorney in DeKalb County, MO and reasons for hiring one is to investigate your case to access evidence and facts that support your defense case. We interview witnesses, consult with experts, and scrutinize police reports, medical records, and other documents related to the case.
• Navigate the legal system: The Missouri criminal justice system can be complex and perplexing. A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in DeKalb County, MO will help you work through the legal system and grasp the charges against you, the potential impact of a criminal conviction on your life, and the possible paths to resolution.
• Provide legal counsel and guidance: As experienced DeKalb County, MO criminal defense lawyers, we are able to advise you on all aspects of and choices available in your case. We help you navigate the Missouri criminal justice system and the potential consequences of a conviction so you can take the appropriate move.
• Build a strong defense: A defense attorney has the knowledge, proficiency, and resources to build a solid defense on your behalf. We examine the evidence, question witnesses, consult with experts and present a compelling case in your defense.
• Negotiate a favorable outcome: Your defense attorney will negotiate with prosecutors to arrive at the best possible outcome for your case. The possible outcomes depend on the details of your arrest and the case the prosecution has against you. We may be able to convince the prosecutor to drop the case against you, negotiate a plea bargain, seek a reduction in charges or sentence or obtain an acquittal at trial.
• Minimize the impact: A criminal conviction can substantially impact your life, both personal and professional. With the help of a skilled and dedicated defense attorney in DeKalb County, MO, you can minimize the impact of criminal charges by way of alternative sentencing programs or other sentencing options. If you are ultimately charged, as your DeKalb County, MO defense attorney we may be able to help address your criminal record and refer you with resources to help you retain certain rights, secure employment and do other things that are difficult to do with a criminal record.
• Access resources: A defense attorney has access to a range of resources that can be used to win your case and that would be difficult to make use of if you were to represent yourself. We might work with detectives, forensic experts or other professionals to gather evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
• Enjoy peace of mind: Facing the reality of DeKalb County, MO criminal charges can be a unsettling and uncertain time. By hiring an experienced defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte, you will experience peace of mind knowing that you have a skilled professional advocating for your legal rights and standing beside you every step of way.

At the end of the day, each case is unique, and you need personalized legal advice. That starts with a free consultation where you meet with a prospective defense attorney to determine the fit and what you can expect if you were to work together. Get a consultation today by calling (314) 900-HELP or requesting one online.

At Combs Waterkotte in DeKalb County, MO, we’ve represented clients facing a wide range of criminal charges over the years carrying potential sentences ranging from minor to life-altering. Every case comes with its own set of legal nuances that call for the experience of a seasoned DeKalb County, MO defense attorney. Below are some of the most common types of criminal charges that we handle. For additional case types, check out our full list of criminal defense practice areas or contact an attorney now.

Drug Charges

Drug charges are one of the most common cases we handle. The charges can range from small possession charges to trafficking and distribution. These charges are often the result of a drug bust or investigation by law enforcement.

If you are facing drug charges in DeKalb County, MO, you owe it to yourself to hire a defense attorney near DeKalb County, MO who has experience in handling drug-related charges. A skilled Combs Waterkotte attorney will seek to suppress the evidence obtained, challenge the admissibility of evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to obtain a favorable plea agreement.

DWI

DWI or driving while intoxicated charges are serious and can have serious consequences. The consequences can be severe, including significant fines and even imprisonment. Though a DWI is often the result of driving while drunk, you can also be arrested for a DWI even if you are under the influence of drugs. If you have been arrested for DWI, it is imperative to contact a defense attorney in DeKalb County, MO right away. An experienced attorney can question the accuracy of the tests, seek to exclude evidence obtained during the stop, and negotiate with prosecutors to get the charges reduced or dismissed.

Gun Charges

Though Missouri gun laws are fairly permissive, gun owners must operate firearms within the specifications of state and federal gun laws, and those who don’t are vulnerable to very serious legal repurcussions. Gun charges can include illegal possession, brandishing a weapon, and using a weapon in the commission of a crime. The potential penalties include fines, imprisonment, and loss of the right to own firearms. A defense attorney can work to question the validity of the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your Second Amendment rights.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes such as assault, battery, manslaughter and homicide are serious and can carry significant penalties. A skilled defense attorney can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and build a strong defense on your behalf.

Sex Crimes

There are a variety of crimes that fall under the category of sex crimes, such as charges of rape, sexual assault, statutory rape, and child exploitation. Although the severity and penalties for each crime may differ, charges like these can have long-lasting consequences, such as sex offender registration. If you are facing charges for any of these crimes, a Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in DeKalb County, MO can dispute the evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and protect your legal rights every step of the way.

Theft Charges

Embezzlement, identity theft, credit card fraud, and larceny are all forms of theft-related crimes. Theft-related charges can result in fines and other penalties, as well as jail time or even imprisonment. But in addition to the court’s sentence, you will also be left with a criminal record that can have an impact on your personal and professional life. It can make it incredibly difficult to obtain a job, receive assistance, or qualify for opportunities that you want to pursue. Hire a defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte in DeKalb County, MO to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and build a strong defense on your behalf.

If you are facing criminal charges of any kind, it is vital to hire a defense attorney who has experience dealing with cases similar to yours. Each type of charge presents its own distinct legal issues and complications, and a skilled attorney can help you get through the complexities of the criminal justice system and strive for the most favorable outcome in your case. As a criminal defense law firm serving DeKalb County, MO, we are passionate about protecting our clients’ legal rights and providing understanding and effective representation. To receive a consultation and find out how we can assist you with your criminal case, get in touch with us today. Call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message.

Frequently Asked Questions about Criminal Defense

What are the qualities of a good defense attorney?

When hiring a defense attorney, it is important to look for someone who has handled cases similar to yours and has a proven record of winning in court. You also should look for a lawyer who communicates with you, answers your questions and provides the information you need to make sound decisions for yourself during the case.

How much does a defense attorney cost?

The cost of legal representation from a qualified DeKalb County, MO criminal defense lawyer depends on a number of factors, such as the complexity of your case and the attorney’s level of experience. It is important to discuss fees and payment options with your attorney before signing a contract. Start with a free consultation from a Combs Waterkotte attorney so we can understand your case and the cost of the legal representation you require.

How can a defense attorney help me avoid jail time?

Although there is no certainty that you can avoid jail time, a skilled defense attorney like the ones at Combs Waterkotte can strive to reach plea agreements, contest the evidence of the prosecution, and construct a robust defense in your favor. In the end, your case result will depend on a number of factors, such as the strength of the evidence against you and the discretion of the judge and prosecutor handling your case.

Consult a Defense Attorney in DeKalb County, MO Today | Combs Waterkotte

If you have been arrested and charged with any crime, whether an municipal offense, misdemeanor, breach of supervision or felony, it is paramount that you act right away. You deserve a strong defense and a chance for fair treatment from the court.

Your Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer will stand proudly by your side and serve as your advocate, someone you can count on to act in your best interest and fight for your freedom and fair treatment. Contact the Combs Waterkotte office to consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer in DeKalb County, MO right away. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or request a consultation online.