The Importance of Hiring a Skilled Defense Attorney inCole County, MO

Cole County, MO Defense Attorney. When you’re facing the potential of a criminal conviction, 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 — regardless of your actual guilt — can be severe. However, all is not lost. Having a defense attorney represent you can improve your chances of a positive outcome and provide you with support and guidance during the process.

If you are facing criminal charges, hiring a skilled defense attorney is one of the most critical moves 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 defend people who have been accused of crimes in courts across Cole 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.

The Vital Role of Your Cole County, MO Defense Attorney

As your defense attorney, our legal defense team is tasked with protecting your legal rights and interests throughout the criminal justice process. We adhere to the highest standard and make sure that you are treated fairly, from the arrest procedure and evidence they use to the trial proceedings — if your case goes to trial.

In addition to protecting your basic constitutional rights, we strive to help resolve your case while lessening the impact of the legal consequences on your life. Depending on the situation and the charges, we will fight for the ideal 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 investigate the evidence surrounding the allegations against you. From interviewing witnesses and consulting with topical experts to negotiating with the prosecuting attorneys, when you hire us, we are committed to building a strong case in your defense. And when it comes time for court proceedings to take place, 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?

When facing criminal charges, hiring a strong defense attorney in Cole County, MO is crucial. Combs Waterkotte’s defense attorneys bring years of specialized expertise, training, and records of success in Missouri criminal cases similar to yours and will lead you through the legal process.

When you hire a qualified criminal defense lawyer in Cole County, MO, we will:

• Protect your rights: As your Cole County, MO area defense attorney, your Combs Waterkotte legal team will look out for your best interests and protect you throughout the criminal justice process. Behaviors such as unlawful search and seizure, coerced confessions, or other infringements break the protections put into law to protect you when accused of a crime. We hold Missouri courts accountable when they violate your rights.
• Investigate your case: One of the responsibilities of a defense attorney in Cole County, MO and benefits to retain one is to investigate your case to retrieve evidence and facts that support your defense case. We interview witnesses, consult with experts, and examine police reports, medical records, and other documents related to the case.
• Navigate the legal system: The Missouri criminal justice system can be complicated and confusing. A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Cole County, MO will help you maneuver the legal system and understand the charges against you, the potential consequences of a conviction, and the possible solutions.
• Provide legal counsel and guidance: As experienced Cole County, MO criminal defense lawyers, we are able to advise you on all aspects of and choices available in your case. We help you grasp the Missouri criminal justice system and the potential consequences of a conviction so you can make the right decision.
• Build a strong defense: A defense attorney has the knowledge, skills, and resources to build a strong defense on your behalf. We scrutinize the evidence, interview witnesses, consult with experts and offer 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 persuade the prosecutor to drop the case against you, negotiate a plea bargain, seek a reduction in charges or sentence or secure 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 Cole County, MO, you can minimize the impact of criminal charges by way of probation or other sentencing options. If you are ultimately charged, as your Cole County, MO defense attorney we may be able to help address your criminal record and connect you with resources to help you retain certain rights, secure employment and do other things that are difficult to do with a criminal record.
• Leverage our resources: A defense attorney has access to a number 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 private investigators, scientists or other professionals to compile evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
• Experience peace of mind: Dealing with the reality of Cole County, MO criminal charges can be a unsettling and uncertain time. By hiring an experienced defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte, you will experience peace of mind knowing that you have a qualified professional advocating for your legal rights and standing beside you along the way.

Ultimately, each case is unique, and you deserve personalized legal advice. That starts with a free consultation where you speak to a prospective defense attorney to determine the fit and what you can expect if you were to work together. Get a consultation today by calling (314) 900-HELP or requesting one online.

At Combs Waterkotte in Cole County, MO, we’ve seen a wide variety of criminal charges in our practice carrying potential sentences ranging from minor to life-altering. Every type of charge comes with its own set of legal issues and challenges that require the skillset of a seasoned Cole 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 range 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 Cole County, MO, it is crucial to hire a defense attorney near Cole County, MO who has handled these types of cases. A skilled Combs Waterkotte attorney can seek to suppress the evidence obtained, argue against the admissibility of evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to get the charges reduced or dismissed.

DWI

Being charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be a daunting experience. The consequences can be severe, including significant fines and even imprisonment. 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 imperative to contact a defense attorney in Cole County, MO right away. An experienced attorney can dispute the results of the breathalyzer or blood test, argue against the legality of the traffic stop, and negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the severity of the charges.

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 can be subject to severe penalties. Gun charges can include illegal possession, brandishing a weapon, and using a weapon in the commission of a crime. These charges can carry serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and the loss of your right to own a firearm. A defense attorney can work to question the validity of the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your Second Amendment rights.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes refers to an entire category of crimes that range in severity and punishment, including assault, battery, manslaughter and homicide. 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 Cole County, MO can challenge the evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and protect your legal rights from start to finish.

Theft Charges

Embezzlement, identity theft, credit card fraud, and larceny are all forms of theft charges. Theft-related charges can result in fines and other penalties, as well as jail time or even imprisonment. However, in addition to the court’s sentence, you will also be left with a criminal record that can affect your personal and professional life. It can make it extremely difficult to obtain a job, receive assistance, or qualify for opportunities that you want to pursue. Hire a defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte in Cole County, MO to challenge 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 crucial to hire a defense attorney who has experience managing cases similar to yours. Each type of charge presents its own distinct legal issues and obstacles, and a skilled attorney can help you get through the intricacies of the criminal justice system and strive for the optimal result in your case. As a criminal defense law firm serving Cole County, MO, we are dedicated to defending our clients’ legal rights and providing empathetic and effective representation. To receive a consultation and find out how we can assist you with your criminal case, contact us today. Call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message.

Common Questions about Criminal Defense

What are the qualities of a good defense attorney?

When hiring a defense attorney, it is important to look for someone with experience in handling your specific type of case, one with a strong track record of winning in court. You also 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 Cole 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 arrangements 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.

Is it possible for a defense attorney to help me avoid jail time?

Although there is no assurance that you can avoid jail time, an adept defense attorney like the ones at Combs Waterkotte can strive to reach plea deals, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and create a robust defense on your behalf. Ultimately, the outcome of your case will depend on a number of factors, including the solidity of the proof against you and the decision of the judge and prosecutor handling your case.

Contact a Defense Attorney in Cole County, MO Today | Combs Waterkotte

If you have been arrested and charged with any crime, whether an municipal offense, misdemeanor, parole or probation violation or felony, it is paramount that you act right away. You deserve a strong defense and protection from injustice.

Your Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will stand proudly by your side and serve as your advocate, someone you can depend upon to work toward your best interest and fight for your freedom and fair treatment. Contact our office to speak to an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Cole County, MO right away. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or request a consultation online.