Being charged with a violent crime is one of the most serious legal battles you can face. Your freedom, reputation, and future are all on the line. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, seeking the maximum penalties possible, including long prison sentences and large fines. If you’re facing these charges, choosing the right violent crime defense attorney isn’t just important—it’s critical.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free, confidential consultation to discuss the specifics of your case with an expert violent crime defense attorney. Our legal team has 40-plus years of combined experience and has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours across Missouri.
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How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Charged with a crime? The lawyer you hire matters. Combs Waterkotte, recognized for top-tier criminal defense in Missouri, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
What to Look for in a Violent Crime Defense Attorney
Not all defense attorneys are created equal. The lawyer you select will determine the course of your case. Without a strong, strategic defense, you could be staring at devastating consequences, including years if not your life behind bars. You need an attorney with proven experience, aggressive strategies, and a deep understanding of Missouri’s legal system to fight for your rights and your freedom.
When choosing a lawyer to handle your violent crime charges, look for:
1. Extensive Experience in Violent Crime Cases
Violent crime cases are complex and high-stakes. Experience means the attorney knows how to analyze evidence, challenge prosecution tactics, and build a compelling defense strategy—one that works. You need an attorney who has successfully handled charges like:
2. Aggressive Defense Tactics
Prosecutors go after violent crime offenders in Missouri with a seemingly unparalleled zealousness. They will do everything they can to convict you. A strong violent crime defense attorney will be just as aggressive, if not more, in fighting back. This includes:
- Disputing eyewitness testimony and unreliable statements
- Challenging evidence that was improperly obtained
- Pushing for reduced charges or case dismissal whenever possible
- Taking the case to trial if that’s the best option for your defense
3. In-Depth Knowledge of Missouri Laws
Missouri has strict penalties for violent crimes, including mandatory minimum sentences. A knowledgeable violent crime defense attorney will understand the nuances of Missouri’s legal system and know how to navigate the courts to get the best possible outcome.
4. Proven Track Record of Success
Your violent crime defense attorney should have a history of success in violent crime cases. During your initial consultation, ask about past case results, plea negotiations, and trial victories. Success in previous cases is a strong indicator that they know how to build effective criminal defense strategies.
5. Strong Negotiation and Litigation Skills
Not every case goes to trial, but you deserve a lawyer who is fully prepared to go there if necessary. At the same time, a violent crime defense attorney skilled in negotiation might be able to get charges reduced or dismissed without ever setting foot in a courtroom. Give us a call to get started at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
6. Client-Centered Attention and Dedication
You’re not just another case number—you need a violent crime defense attorney who treats your case with the urgency and dedication it deserves. The right defense lawyer will:
- Take the time to understand your side of the story
- Keep you informed at every stage
- Build a defense strategy tailored specifically to your violent crime case
What Happens if You Choose the Wrong Violent Crime Defense Attorney?
With all that’s involved in a violent crime charge, choosing the right attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It’s good to do your homework—including following the steps outlined in the book above. The wrong violent crime defense attorney—or worse, no attorney at all—can have disastrous consequences. A weak defense could lead to:
- Longer prison sentences or maximum penalties
- Missed opportunities for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even case dismissal
- A permanent criminal record that follows you for life
- Inadequate defense strategies that fail to challenge weak evidence
- A future filled with legal and personal struggles
Combs Waterkotte is Home to the Violent Crime Attorney You Can Trust
We understand the immense pressure and fear that come with violent crime charges. Our legal team is known for relentless advocacy, strategic defense planning, and an unmatched dedication to our clients. Here’s why our clients choose us to defend their innocence:
- Experience and Expertise: We’ve successfully defended clients against the toughest violent crime charges throughout Missouri.
- Extensive Resources and Aggressive Representation: Our lawyers’ broad reach and extensive resources mean that you receive comprehensive support throughout your case. We fight for the best possible outcome, whether that’s dismissal, reduced charges, or a full acquittal.
- Unwavering Dedication to Our Clients: We treat every case as if it were our own freedom on the line. Our team provides 24/7 support.
- Trial-Tested Strategies: Unlike a lot of law firms, we are not afraid to take cases to trial and win.
Your Freedom is at Stake — Call Combs Waterkotte Now
The prosecution is already building a case against you. The sooner you hire a skilled, tenacious violent crime defense attorney, the better your chances. Don’t gamble with your freedom.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review to choose the right attorney that fights to win.
