At Combs Waterkotte, we understand that every criminal case is unique, and every defendant needs and deserve a personalized defense. Our Missouri criminal defense team is experienced in employing a wide range of defense strategies, aimed and getting you the best possible resolution in your case. Whether you’re facing serious felony charges or a misdemeanor, we will explore every legal option to protect your rights.
Below, you’ll find an overview of some of the most common criminal defense strategies we utilize, each designed to challenge the prosecution’s case and work towards a favorable result. From self-defense to lack of intent, we have the expertise and determination to advocate for you.
If you’re facing criminal charges, contact us online or call (314) 900-HELP to discuss the best defense strategy for your case.
Common Criminal Defense Strategies in Missouri
Some of the defenses we commonly use for our clients include:
- Alibi: Proves the defendant was elsewhere when the crime occurred, making it impossible for them to be responsible.
- Battered Spouse Syndrome: Applies when the defendant, having suffered prolonged abuse, acted out of a reasonable belief of danger.
- Castle Doctrine: Allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, to protect their home from an intruder without the obligation to retreat.
- Claim of Right: Asserts that the defendant believed they had a legal right to possess or use the property in question.
- Coercion: Argues the defendant was forced or threatened into committing the crime with no reasonable alternative.
- Consent: Used when the alleged victim agreed to the defendant’s actions, removing the criminal aspect of the conduct.
- Defense of Others: Involves acting to protect someone else from harm by using reasonable force.
- Duress: Claims the defendant acted under immediate threat or harm, leaving no other viable option.
- Entrapment: Occurs when law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed.
- Fourth Amendment: Focuses on unlawful search and seizure, challenging evidence obtained in violation of constitutional rights.
- Fifth Amendment: Protects the defendant from self-incrimination and can be used to challenge improperly obtained confessions.
- Lack of Intent: Highlights the absence of the necessary mental state to commit the crime, such as accidental actions.
- Miranda Rights: Challenges the admissibility of evidence or statements when the defendant was not informed of their rights during arrest.
- Necessity: Justifies the defendant’s actions as necessary to prevent a greater harm in an emergency situation.
- Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity: Used when mental illness prevents the defendant from understanding the nature or wrongfulness of their actions.
- Self-Defense: Justifies the use of reasonable force to protect oneself from imminent harm.
- Stand Your Ground: Extends the right to use force without retreating beyond the home, applicable in any location where the individual feels threatened.
