The Importance of Hiring a Skilled Defense Attorney inDallas County, MO
Dallas County, MO Defense Attorney. When 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. It’s scary, and the consequences — regardless of your actual guilt — can be significant. However, hiring a defense attorney 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 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 legal professionals and staff who serve people who have been accused of crimes in courts across Dallas 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.
Dallas County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Dallas County and Missouri.
The Important Role of Your Dallas County, MO Defense Attorney
As your defense attorney, our legal defense team is tasked with defending your legal rights and interests during the course of the criminal justice process. We abide by the highest standard and ensure that you are treated fairly, from the arrest procedure and the prosecution’s use of evidence.
On top of protecting your basic constitutional rights, we strive to help resolve your case while reducing the reach of the legal consequences on your life. Depending on the situation and the charges, we will battle for the ideal outcome, which could be receiving a lesser sentence, getting the charges reduced to less serious 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 suspected of a crime, hiring a strong defense attorney in Dallas 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 guide you through the legal process.
When you retain a qualified criminal defense lawyer in Dallas County, MO, we will:
- Protect your rights: As your Dallas County, MO area defense attorney, your Combs Waterkotte legal team will ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process. Behaviors such as unlawful search and seizure, coerced confessions, or other infringements go against the protections put into law to protect the accused. We make sure that Missouri courts are held accountable when they breach your rights.
- Investigate your case: One of the responsibilities of a defense attorney in Dallas County, MO and reasons for hiring one is to conduct an investigation to uncover evidence and facts that support your defense case. We question 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 complex and perplexing. A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Dallas County, MO will help you work through the legal system and grasp the charges against you, the potential impact of a criminal conviction on your life, and the possible paths to resolution.
- Provide legal counsel and guidance: As experienced Dallas County, MO criminal defense lawyers, we are able to counsel you on all aspects of and possibilities in your case. We help you understand the Missouri criminal justice system and the potential consequences of a conviction so you can take the right move.
- Build a strong defense: A defense attorney has the knowledge, skills, and resources to build a solid 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 against 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 substantially impact your life, both personal and professional. With the help of a skilled and dedicated defense attorney in Dallas County, MO, you can minimize the impact of criminal charges through community service or other sentencing options. If you are ultimately charged, as your Dallas 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.
- Access resources: A defense attorney has access to a number of resources that can help support your defense that you would otherwise not be able to use 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.
- Find peace of mind: Facing the reality of Dallas County, MO criminal charges can be a frightening and uncertain time. By hiring an experienced defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you have a skilled professional advocating for your legal rights and standing beside you every step of way.
In the end, each case is unique, and you need personalized legal advice. That starts with a free consultation where you consult with a prospective defense attorney to determine the fit and what you can expect if you were to work together. Schedule a consultation today by calling (314) 900-HELP or requesting one online.
As a criminal defense law firm in Dallas County, MO, we’ve represented a wide variety of criminal charges over the years from simple misdemeanors to complex felonies. Each type of charge brings its own unique set of legal complexities that call for the expertise of a seasoned Dallas County, MO defense attorney. Below are some of the most common types of criminal charges that we handle. If you don’t see the kind of charges you are facing listed here, 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 minor possession charges to trafficking and distribution. Drug charges typically stem from police investigations and arrests.
If you are facing drug charges in Dallas County, MO, you owe it to yourself to hire a defense attorney near Dallas County, MO who has experience in handling drug-related charges. A skilled Combs Waterkotte attorney can question the legality of the search and seizure, challenge the admissibility of evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss the charges or land an alternative sentencing deal such as rehab or drug court.
DWI
Being charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be a daunting experience. The potential penalties include fines, license suspension, and 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 imperative to contact a defense attorney in Dallas County, MO as soon as possible. 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 get the charges reduced or dismissed.
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. The potential penalties include fines, imprisonment, and loss of the right to own firearms. A defense attorney can work to build a strong defense on your behalf, 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 seek to exclude evidence obtained by the prosecution, 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 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 sex offender registration. If you are facing charges for any of these crimes, a Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Dallas County, MO can dispute 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 instances of theft charges. 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 very difficult to obtain a job, receive assistance, or qualify for opportunities that you want to pursue. Hire a defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte in Dallas County, MO to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
If you are facing criminal charges of any kind, it is important to retain a defense attorney who has experience handling cases comparable to yours. Each type of charge presents its own set of unique legal issues and obstacles, and a skilled attorney can help you get through the complexities of the criminal justice system and strive for the optimal result in your case. As a criminal defense law firm serving Dallas County, MO, we are passionate about protecting our clients’ legal rights and offering understanding and effective representation. To book a consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your criminal case, reach out to us now. Call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message.
Frequently Asked Questions our Attorneys Hear
What should I look for when hiring a defense attorney?
When hiring a defense attorney, it is important to look for someone who has handled cases similar to yours and has a proven record of winning in court. You also deserve an attorney who is responsive to your needs and communicates clearly and effectively with you throughout the legal process.
What are the fees for a defense attorney?
The cost of legal representation from a qualified Dallas 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 hiring them. 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 in avoiding jail time?
Despite the fact that it is not guaranteed that you can avoid jail time, a skilled defense attorney such as the lawyers at Combs Waterkotte can work to negotiate plea bargains, dispute the proof presented by the prosecution, and construct a strong case for your side. At the end of the day, the outcome of your case will depend on a number of factors, like the solidity of the proof against you and the discretion of the judge and prosecutor handling your case.
Contact a Defense Attorney in Dallas County, MO Now | Combs Waterkotte
If you have been arrested and charged with any crime, whether an ordinance violation, minor crime, parole or probation violation or felony, it is imperative that you act right away. You deserve a solid defense and a chance for fair treatment from the court.
Your Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will stand proudly by your side and serve as your ally, someone you can count on to act in your best interest and fight for your freedom and fair treatment. Contact our office to consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Dallas County, MO right away. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or request a consultation online.