The Importance of Hiring a Skilled Defense Attorney inChariton County, MO
Chariton County, MO Defense Attorney. When accused of a crime, it’s natural to panic, feel hopeless or be tempted to run and avoid the issue for as long as you can. Put frankly, it’s a big deal and the consequences can be significant. However, all is not lost. Having a defense attorney represent you can make a night-to-day difference in the outcome of your case and your wellbeing during the legal proceedings.
If you are facing criminal charges, hiring a skilled defense attorney can be one of the most significant decisions you make. You not only need a legal expert to navigate your case and ensure laws are followed on both sides of the courtroom, but you deserve someone in your corner, 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 those accused of crimes in courts across Chariton 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.
Chariton County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Chariton County and Missouri.
The Important Role of Your Chariton County, MO Defense Attorney
As your defense attorney, we is tasked with defending your legal rights and interests during the course of the criminal justice process. We adhere to the highest standard and make sure that you receive fair treatment, from your Miranda rights during the arrest and evidence they use to the trial proceedings — if your case goes to trial.
In addition to protecting your basic constitutional rights, we aim to help resolve your case while reducing the impact of the legal consequences on your life. Depending on the situation and the charges, we will battle for the best possible outcome, which might be receiving a lesser sentence, getting 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 interrogating witnesses and consulting with topical experts to negotiating with the prosecuting attorneys, when you hire us, we are committed to building a strong defense. And when your court dates roll around, we are right there with you (or there on your behalf), supplying legal counsel, representation and support during plea negotiations, pre-trial hearings, and trials.
Why Hire a Defense Attorney?
If you are facing criminal charges, hiring a strong defense attorney in Chariton County, MO is essential. Combs Waterkotte’s defense attorneys bring years of specialized expertise, training, and records of success in Missouri criminal cases similar to yours and will guide you through the legal process.
When you retain a qualified criminal defense lawyer in Chariton County, MO, we will:
- Enforce your rights: As your Chariton County, MO area defense attorney, your Combs Waterkotte legal team will ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process. Actions such as unlawful search and seizure, coerced confessions, or other infringements go against the laws put in place to protect the accused. We hold Missouri courts accountable when they breach your rights.
- Investigate your case: One of the responsibilities of a defense attorney in Chariton County, MO and reasons for hiring one is to investigate your case to access evidence and facts that support your defense case. We question witnesses, consult with experts, and review police reports, medical records, and other documents related to the case.
- Navigate the legal system: The Missouri criminal justice system can be complicated and perplexing. A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Chariton County, MO will help you navigate the legal system and understand the charges against you, the possible impact of a criminal conviction on your life, and the possible solutions.
- Provide legal counsel and guidance: As experienced Chariton County, MO criminal defense lawyers, we are able to counsel 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 make the appropriate decision.
- Build a strong defense: A defense attorney has the knowledge, proficiency, and resources to build a strong 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 built 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 land an acquittal at trial.
- Minimize the impact: A criminal conviction can significantly impact your life, both personal and professional. With the help of a skilled and dedicated defense attorney in Chariton 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 Chariton 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, find employment and do other things that are difficult to do with a criminal record.
- Leverage our 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 investigators, technical experts or other professionals to collect evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Experience peace of mind: Dealing with the reality of Chariton County, MO criminal charges can be a unsettling and uncertain time. By hiring an experienced defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have a skilled professional advocating for your legal rights and standing beside you along the way.
At the end of the day, each case is unique, and you require 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. Arrange a consultation today by calling (314) 900-HELP or requesting one online.
At Combs Waterkotte in Chariton County, MO, we’ve represented clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in our practice carrying potential sentences ranging from minor to life-altering. Each case comes with its own set of legal nuances that call for the expertise of a seasoned Chariton 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 vary from possession 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 Chariton County, MO, you owe it to yourself to hire a defense attorney near Chariton County, MO who has handled these types of cases. A skilled Combs Waterkotte attorney will challenge the legality of the search and seizure, challenge the admissibility of evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to get the charges reduced or dismissed.
DWI
DWI or driving while intoxicated charges can be life-altering. It can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time. 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 important to contact a defense attorney in Chariton County, MO right away. An experienced attorney can dispute the results of the breathalyzer or blood test, challenge the legality of the traffic stop, and negotiate with prosecutors to obtain a favorable plea agreement.
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 challenge the evidence against you, 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, including 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 mandatory sex offender registration. If you are facing charges for any of these crimes, a Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Chariton County, MO can fight 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 examples 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 impact 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 Chariton County, MO to contest the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
If you are accused of a crime of any kind, it is important to hire a defense attorney who has experience dealing with cases similar to yours. Each type of charge presents its own set of unique legal issues and complications, and a skilled attorney can help you get through the complexities of the criminal justice system and strive for the best possible outcome in your case. As a criminal defense law firm serving Chariton County, MO, we are dedicated to safeguarding our clients’ legal rights and supplying compassionate and effective representation. To receive a consultation and find out how we can assist you with your criminal case, reach out to us now. Call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message.
Common Questions from our Clients
What should I look for when hiring a defense attorney?
You should look for an experienced defense attorney who has handled cases similar to yours and has a proven record of success in the courtroom On top of that, you deserve a lawyer who is responsive to your needs and communicates clearly and effectively with you throughout the legal process.
How do I pay for a defense attorney?
The cost of legal representation from a qualified Chariton 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 plans 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 in avoiding jail time?
Despite the fact that it is not guaranteed that you can avoid jail time, a proficient defense attorney such as the ones at Combs Waterkotte can aim to secure plea deals, contest the evidence of the prosecution, and construct a robust case for your side. In the end, your case result will depend on a number of factors, like the solidity of the proof against you and how the judge and prosecutor handle your case.
Consult a Defense Attorney in Chariton County, MO Now | Combs Waterkotte
If you have been arrested and charged with any crime, whether an ordinance violation, minor crime, breach of supervision or felony, it is important that you act right away. You deserve a solid defense and protection from injustice.
Your Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer will stand proudly by your side and serve as your representative, someone you can depend upon to act in your best interest and fight for your rights and fair treatment. Reach out to the Combs Waterkotte office to consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Chariton County, MO right away. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or request a consultation online.