Criminal Defense Attorney New London, MO

New London, MO criminal defense attorney. Being accused of a crime is one of the most serious challenges you can face — but with the right legal team, it’s one you can overcome. A dedicated Combs Waterkotte New London, MO criminal defense attorney will fight for your rights, protect your freedom, and work relentlessly to secure the best outcome possible.

At Combs Waterkotte, our mission is clear: deliver exceptional legal defense and life-changing results. Our New London, MO criminal defense attorneys represent clients in every type of case, from misdemeanors to major felonies and federal offenses. We take a personal, aggressive, and strategic approach to ensure every client gets the strongest possible defense. We know that good people sometimes find themselves in difficult situations—and we believe everyone deserves a second chance and a strong defense.

Our legal team has over 60 years of combined criminal defense experience and has handled over 10,000 cases just like yours. Our record of success speaks for itself, reflecting our unwavering commitment to results and respect. If you’re facing a criminal charge in the New London, MO area, call us right away at (314) 900-HELP, or contact us online, for a free, confidential consultation.

Overview of This Article

Facing criminal charges in New London, MO can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life — but understanding your rights and options can make all the difference. This page breaks down everything you need to know about criminal defense in New London, MO and throughout Missouri, including felony and misdemeanor laws, federal prosecution, sentencing, and how the team at Combs Waterkotte fights to protect your future.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• What to do right after being arrested in New London, MO
• How state and federal prosecutions differ
• The penalties for New London, MO felonies and misdemeanors
• How Combs Waterkotte defends clients in complex drug, DUI, sex crime, and violent crime cases in New London, MO and beyond
• Why Combs Waterkotte is recognized as New London, MO’s leading criminal defense firm
• Whether you’re fighting for your freedom or just trying to protect your record, this guide explains how we help you navigate the system—and win.

What You Should Do Right After an Arrest in New London, MO

Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the New London, MO criminal justice system. The steps you take in the hours following your arrest can have a major impact on your case’s outcome. Here are the steps to take immediately if you or someone you love has been arrested in New London, MO:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Don’t Resist Arrest

No matter how unfair or unnecessary the arrest may feel, it’s essential to remain composed. Arguing or resisting, even verbally, can lead to additional charges in New London, MO. Keep your hands visible, follow all lawful instructions, and avoid sudden movements. Remember, your behavior is being closely observed and could later become part of the evidence against you.

Step 2: Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent

After giving your basic information, stop talking. You have the right to remain silent, and exercising it can make all the difference in your case. Politely say, “I choose to remain silent and would like to speak with my lawyer.” Don’t try to explain or tell your side of the story on the spot—that’s your attorney’s job. Anything you say now can be twisted and used against you later in court.

Step 3: Get a New London, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

Don’t say a word or sign any papers until you’ve spoken with a lawyer. This is your right—use it. Calling a New London, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte right after your arrest gives you the strongest start possible because:

• Law enforcement and investigators must go through your lawyer for all communication
• Your legal rights will be protected at every stage of the process
• Our legal team can start building your defense and securing evidence right away in New London, MO
• We’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies anywhere in New London, MO.

Step 4: Keep Details of Your New London, MO Case Private

Silence is protection. Avoid talking about your arrest with anyone, even people you trust, and stay off social media. Texts, DMs, and posts can be taken out of context and used against you. Only discuss your situation with your attorney or legal team at Combs Waterkotte, where your information stays completely confidential.

Step 5: Don’t Consent to Searches Without a Warrant

Police may ask to look through your phone, your car, or even your home—but unless they show a legitimate warrant, you can and should say no. Politely respond, “I don’t consent to any searches.” You have every right to protect your privacy and property from unlawful investigation in the New London, MO area.

If police collect evidence without a valid warrant, that evidence can often be thrown out in court. This single step could make or break your case.

Step 6: Secure Bail or Release

After booking, you’ll be taken to a detention facility near New London, MO. Depending on your charges, you may be eligible for bond or release on recognizance. Our New London, MO criminal defense attorneys can:

• File for a bond reduction hearing
• Argue for your release pending trial
• Work directly with bail bondsmen to secure your release fast
• Give you time to focus on your job, your loved ones, and your defense

Step 7: Write Down Every Detail of the Arrest

As soon as possible, write down everything you can recall about the arrest—including what officers said or did, the time and location, any witnesses present, and any searches conducted. These details may become vital later in identifying police misconduct or procedural errors.

If you hire a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in the New London, MO area, you aren’t just choosing a top-rated criminal defense attorney in New London, MO and beyond – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys, our team is available 24/7 and offers experience and expertise in the following areas for residents in New London and beyond:

A Full-Service New London, MO Criminal Defense Firm

The dedicated New London, MO criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte are equipped to handle any criminal matter—whether you’re dealing with a simple ticket, a misdemeanor offense, or a high-stakes felony or federal charge.

We provide comprehensive legal defense across a full range of practice areas in and around New London, MO, including:

• DWI Defense
• Assault and Battery
• Domestic Violence
• Drug Charges & Possession
• Drug Trafficking
• Weapons & Gun Crimes
• Sex Crimes
• Theft & Larceny
• Credit Card & Financial Fraud
• Homicide & Manslaughter
• Probation Violations
• Motor Vehicle Tampering
• View all practice areas

New London, MO Federal Crime Lawyer You Can Trust

Facing criminal charges at the federal level is a far different, and far more intimidating, experience than state prosecution. Federal prosecutors are backed by immense resources, extensive investigations, and a conviction rate exceeding 90%, according to Pew Research.

At Combs Waterkotte, our New London, MO federal criminal defense attorneys are equipped to take on the most complex and high-stakes federal cases. With decades of combined courtroom experience, we stand up to the U.S. Department of Justice and other federal agencies to protect our clients’ rights. We handle a wide range of federal offenses, including:

• Federal Drug Trafficking
• Federal Wire Fraud
• Federal Mail Fraud
• Federal Internet Fraud
• Federal Tax Evasions & Fraud
• Federal White Collar Crimes
• Federal Espionage & National Security Violations
• Federal Computer & Cyber Crimes
• Federal Kidnapping
• Federal Embezzlement
• Federal Conspiracy

Federal prosecutors are relentless—their goal is conviction, not compromise. They routinely pressure defendants into plea agreements that carry harsh prison terms and permanent criminal records. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a different approach. Our attorneys meticulously scrutinize every detail of the case, challenge the government’s evidence, uncover procedural violations, and fight to have charges reduced or dismissed long before a plea becomes necessary.

Learn more about how we handle New London, MO federal criminal cases, what makes them unique, and how they are different from state cases.

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New London Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law

Even a minor conviction in New London, MO can have lasting consequences. A misdemeanor may result in fines, probation, or jail time, while a felony conviction can bring years in state prison and permanently restrict your rights—including your ability to vote, own firearms, or hold certain jobs.

Convicted felons are barredConvicted felons in Missouri are barred from owning weapons, running for public office, or serving on juries. They must often disclose their criminal status on job or housing applications, which can make rebuilding their lives extremely difficult.

Fortunately, there are ways to rebuild. Missouri provides several options for restoring your rights, including record expungement, pardons, and sealing past convictions. At Combs Waterkotte, our New London, MO defense lawyers work tirelessly to help clients clear their records and move forward with confidence and dignity.

Felony Offense Levels and Sentencing in New London, MO

Missouri divides felonies into five classes based on the seriousness of the crime. Each class carries a different potential prison sentence:

• Class A Felony — 10 to 30 years in state prison, or life imprisonment
• Class B Felony — at least 5 but no more than 15 years in prison
• Class C Felony — 3 to 10 years in prison
• Class D Felony — up to 7 years in prison
• Class E Felony — up to 4 years in prison

Certain aggravating factors, such as using a weapon, prior convictions, or crimes involving hate-based motives, can raise a charge to a higher class, resulting in harsher penalties. However, an experienced New London, MO criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction in charges, secure a diversion program, or even achieve a full dismissal depending on the circumstances of your case.

Misdemeanor Offenses and Penalties in New London, MO

Not all criminal charges are felonies, but even a misdemeanor in Missouri can have serious consequences if it’s not properly addressed. Misdemeanors are classified into four categories, each with different potential penalties:

• Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail; a fine of up to $2,000
• Class B Misdemeanor — Up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000
• Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail and fines up to $700
• Class D Misdemeanor — A fine of up to $500

Many misdemeanor offenders qualify for probation, community service, or expungement—and our experienced and relentless New London, MO criminal defense attorneys fight to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome possible.

Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in New London, MO?

Not all New London, MO criminal defense lawyers are created equal. Our legal team’s approach to defense is built on client focus, trial readiness, unmatched resources, and over six decades of combined expertise:

• Personal Attention, 24/7: We’re available 24/7 in New London, MO and beyond, and we take the time to understand your priorities, answer your questions, and keep you informed at every stage. You are never just another case file—you are our focus.
• Trial-Tested Defense: Every case is prepared as if it’s going to trial. That level of readiness gives us the leverage to negotiate from a position of strength and the confidence to go the distance when necessary.
• Extensive Resources: Our firm works with expert witnesses, investigators, and forensic specialists to find the facts others overlook, and to expose flaws in the prosecution’s case.
• Local Knowledge & Experience in New London. MO: With decades of combined courtroom experience in New London, MO and across Missouri, our criminal defense attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and unique procedures in local courts—and how to use that knowledge to your advantage.

When your future is on the line, you deserve a criminal defense team in New London, MO that is dedicated to fighting for the best possible result.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in New London, MO

What should I do first if I’m arrested in New London, MO?

Stay calm, remain silent, and ask for an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact Combs Waterkotte immediately so we can protect your rights and start building your defense.

What’s the difference between state and federal charges?

State charges usually involve violations of Missouri laws and are handled by local prosecutors. Federal charges involve the U.S. government and typically include more serious crimes, like large-scale drug trafficking or fraud. Federal cases carry harsher penalties and require an attorney with specific federal court experience, like the team at Combs Waterkotte.

Is it possible to avoid jail time for a criminal charge in New London, MO?

Yes. Depending on your case, our New London, MO criminal defense attorneys may negotiate probation, suspended sentences, diversion programs, or treatment alternatives instead of jail time—especially for first-time offenders.

Will a criminal conviction stay on my record forever?

Not necessarily. Missouri law allows for the expungement of certain criminal convictions after a set waiting period. Our New London, MO criminal defense lawyers can review your case, determine if you qualify, and guide you through the process of clearing your record for good.

What if this is my first felony charge?

Judges often treat first-time offenders more leniently. A clean record can be a powerful mitigating factor that may result in probation, reduced penalties, or dismissal of charges altogether. The right New London, MO attorney can make sure your clean history works in your favor.

Can Combs Waterkotte still help if I already pled guilty?

Yes. Our attorneys regularly handle post-conviction relief cases, including appeals, motions for sentence reduction, and other remedies. Contact us right away—strict time limits may apply to your case, so acting quickly is essential.

Protect Your Rights and Your Future — Call Combs Waterkotte, New London, MO’s Premier Criminal Defense Firm Now

Choosing the right lawyer can make the difference between your case being ended favorably and you spending time behind bars. Don’t risk your freedom or your future with an inexperienced attorney or a public defender overloaded with cases. Unlike other criminal New London, MO defense attorneys, we aren’t afraid of doing whatever it takes to prove your innocence—including going to trial.

Our commitment to client service is unmatched: you’ll have direct, 24/7 access to your New London, MO criminal defense attorney whenever you need guidance or support.

Don’t gamble with your future. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule your free case review. We’re ready to start building your defense and protecting your freedom—today.