Portage Des Sioux, 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 Portage Des Sioux, 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 Portage Des Sioux, 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.
With more than 60 years of combined experience and over 10,000 criminal cases successfully handled, our track record of success speaks for itself. If you’re facing charges in Portage Des Sioux, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation with a trusted criminal defense attorney.
Legal Videos
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders?
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs talks about the differences in a defendant's experience when working with a public defender vs. a …
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri?
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri? If you've been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail and get back home. Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs …
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answer the most commonly asked questions about …
How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.
Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped?
Can your criminal case get dismissed? How can your defense attorney get your case dismissed? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses what needs to happen to have your charges …
Public Defender Caseloads Are High. Can I Trust One With My Case?
St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders?
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs talks about the differences in a defendant's experience when working with a public defender vs. a …
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri?
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri? If you've been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail and get back home. Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs …
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answer the most commonly asked questions about …
How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.
Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped?
Can your criminal case get dismissed? How can your defense attorney get your case dismissed? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses what needs to happen to have your charges …
Public Defender Caseloads Are High. Can I Trust One With My Case?
St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
Article Summary
If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime in Portage Des Sioux, MO, your choice of attorney can determine your future. This page covers everything you need to know about criminal defense in Portage Des Sioux, MO and across Missouri, from felony and misdemeanor classifications to federal cases, sentencing guidelines, and how Combs Waterkotte protects your rights.
Read on to learn:
- The critical first steps to take after an arrest in Portage Des Sioux, MO
- The key differences between state and federal criminal charges
- The penalties for Portage Des Sioux, MO felonies and misdemeanors
- Our proven defense strategies for DUI, drug, assault, fraud, and violent crime cases
- Why Combs Waterkotte is one of Missouri’s top-rated criminal defense firms
- How we help you take control of your Portage Des Sioux, MO case, and your future, from day one.
Cases Handled
Over 10,000
Jail Days Saved
Over 1 Million
Google Reviews
400+ Perfect
Legal Experience
Over 60 Years
Steps to Take After an Arrest in Portage Des Sioux, MO
Being arrested in Portage Des Sioux, MO can be an overwhelming and intimidating experience. Whether it’s your first encounter with the criminal justice system or not, what you do in the moments immediately following your arrest can greatly influence the outcome of your case. Follow these critical steps to protect your rights and strengthen your defense from the very beginning:
Step 1: Keep Calm and Avoid Resistance
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 Portage Des Sioux, 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 Portage Des Sioux, 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 Portage Des Sioux, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte right after your arrest gives you the strongest start possible because:
- Police and prosecutors are required to communicate through your attorney
- We make sure your constitutional rights are respected from the beginning
- Our team can start gathering and preserving key evidence immediately in Portage Des Sioux, MO
- We’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies anywhere in Portage Des Sioux, MO.
Step 4: Don’t Talk About Your Portage Des Sioux, MO Case
Do not discuss your arrest or charges with friends, family, or anyone else—especially online or through text. Prosecutors can subpoena social media posts, messages, or even casual statements made to others. Only speak about your Portage Des Sioux, MO case with your attorney and legal team.
Step 5: Don’t Consent to Searches Without a Warrant
If law enforcement asks to search your Portage Des Sioux, MO home, vehicle, or phone, you are under no obligation to agree. Unless officers present a valid warrant signed by a judge, you have the legal right to refuse. Calmly state, “I do not consent to a search.” Exercising this right protects you from unlawful or overreaching police actions.
Unlawful or warrantless searches often lead to suppressed evidence, meaning it cannot be used against you in court.
Step 6: Get Out on Bail or Release Quickly
After being booked into a Portage Des Sioux, MO detention facility, you may qualify for bail or release on your own recognizance, depending on the charges. An experienced Portage Des Sioux, MO criminal defense attorney can act quickly to:
- File motions to lower your bond amount
- Argue for pretrial release so you can stay with your family
- Coordinate with bail bondsmen to expedite your release
- 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.
-
Protect Your Life
![Image]()
Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
Reach Out Now
-
Know Your Next Steps
![Image]()
Know Your Next Steps
Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
Stay Informed
-
Title
![Image]()
Ready to Talk to an Expert?
Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
Get Started
If you hire a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in the Portage Des Sioux, MO area, you aren’t just selecting a leading criminal defense attorney in Portage Des Sioux, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with trustworthy criminal defense lawyers, our team is available 24/7 and offers experience and expertise in the following areas for Portage Des Sioux, MO residents:
Your Trusted Portage Des Sioux, MO Criminal Defense Team
The Portage Des Sioux, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte handle all levels of criminal cases—from traffic tickets and misdemeanors to serious felony and federal offenses.
Our Portage Des Sioux, MO practice areas include:
- 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
Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Portage Des Sioux, MO
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 Portage Des Sioux, 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.
To learn more about how we handle federal criminal defense cases in the Portage Des Sioux, MO area, and how federal prosecutions differ from state-level ones, explore our comprehensive guide to federal felony charges.
Free book
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Protect Your Rights and Future
Combs Waterkotte has over 60 years of experience and over 10,000 cases handled. This ebook helps guide you through the criminal defense process and how an experienced, skilled defense attorney can keep your freedoms intact.
Understanding Portage Des Sioux Criminal Penalties and Your Rights Under Missouri Law
Even a seemingly minor conviction in Portage Des Sioux, MO can have serious and lasting consequences. A misdemeanor might bring fines, probation, or time in county jail, while a felony conviction can result in years in state prison and the permanent loss of certain civil rights. This can include your ability to vote, own firearms, or pursue specific careers.
Under Missouri law, convicted felons are prohibited from owning guns, serving on juries, or holding public office. They are also often required to disclose their criminal history on employment and housing applications, making it much harder to move forward after a conviction.
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 Portage Des Sioux, MO defense lawyers work tirelessly to help clients clear their records and move forward with confidence and dignity.
St. Charles County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Charles County and Missouri.
Felony Levels and Possible Penalties in Portage Des Sioux, MO
Felonies in Missouri are classified by severity, each carrying its own range of punishments:
- Class A Felony — 10 to 30 years, or life in prison
- Class B Felony — 5 to 15 years in prison
- Class C Felony — 3 to 10 years in prison
- Class D Felony — no more than 7 years in prison
- Class E Felony — no more than 4 years in prison
Factors like prior offenses, use of weapons, or crimes motivated by bias can increase the severity of a charge and the sentence you face. The good news is that a knowledgeable Portage Des Sioux, MO criminal defense lawyer can often step in early to negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or even a complete dismissal — helping you protect your record and your future.
Misdemeanor Offenses and Penalties in Portage Des Sioux, MO
In Missouri, misdemeanor charges are divided into four distinct classes, each carrying its own range of possible penalties:
- Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail and/or 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 — Fines up to $500
Many misdemeanor offenders qualify for probation, community service, or expungement—and our experienced and relentless Portage Des Sioux, MO criminal defense attorneys fight to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome possible.
Why Choose Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Attorney in Portage Des Sioux, MO?
Choosing the right defense attorney can be the most important decision you ever make. At Combs Waterkotte, we’ve built our reputation on delivering results through preparation, communication, and relentless advocacy. Here’s what sets our Portage Des Sioux, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:
- Client-Focused Representation: We’re available 24/7 for our clients in Portage Des Sioux, MO. Our attorneys take the time to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through every stage of the process. You’re not just a case number—you’re our priority.
- Trial-Ready 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: We utilize expert witnesses, forensic specialists, and private investigators to uncover critical details that can make or break your case.
- Local Knowledge & Experience in Portage Des Sioux. MO: Our attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and court systems throughout Portage Des Sioux, MO, allowing us to tailor defense strategies that work effectively in your jurisdiction.
When everything is on the line, trust a Portage Des Sioux, MO criminal defense team that has the experience, resources, and commitment to fight for your best possible outcome.
Common Questions About Criminal Defense in Portage Des Sioux, MO
I was just arrested in Portage Des Sioux, MO. What should I do?
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 criminal charges?
State charges are handled by Missouri courts and usually involve violations of state laws. Federal charges, on the other hand, are prosecuted by U.S. attorneys and often involve interstate activity or federal agencies. Federal cases carry stricter sentencing guidelines and typically require more extensive defense strategies.
Can I stay out of jail if I’m charged with a crime in Portage Des Sioux, MO?
Often, yes. Every case is different, but our Portage Des Sioux, MO defense lawyers frequently secure outcomes like probation, community service, or diversion programs that keep clients out of jail, especially those with clean records or low-level charges.
Does 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 Portage Des Sioux, 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 Portage Des Sioux, MO attorney can make sure your clean history works in your favor.
Can Combs Waterkotte help if I already entered a guilty plea?
Yes. In many cases, we can file post-conviction motions, appeals, or petitions for sentence reduction. Contact us immediately—time limits apply.
Take Control of Your Future. Call Combs Waterkotte to Hire Your Portage Des Sioux, MO Criminal Defense Attorney 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 Portage Des Sioux, 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 Portage Des Sioux, MO criminal defense attorney whenever you need guidance or support.
Don’t take chances with your freedom. Make Combs Waterkotte your first call. Contact us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a no-obligation case evaluation. The sooner we start, the stronger your defense will be.
