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

Lafayette 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. It’s scary, and the consequences can be significant. However, hiring a defense attorney can improve your chances of a positive outcome and provide you with support and guidance throughout the legal proceedings.

When you have been accused of a crime, 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 lawyers and paralegals who defend those accused of crimes in courts across Lafayette 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 Important Role of Your Lafayette 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 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.

On top of 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 insist upon the ideal outcome, which might 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 examine 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 focused 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 in court proceedings, such as plea negotiations, pre-trial hearings, and trials.

Why Hire a Defense Attorney?

When suspected of a crime, hiring a strong defense attorney in Lafayette 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 hire the right criminal defense lawyer in Lafayette County, MO, we will:

• Protect your rights: As your Lafayette 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 laws put in place to protect you when accused of a crime. We hold Missouri courts accountable when they breach your rights.
• Investigate your case: One of the advantages of a defense attorney in Lafayette County, MO and reasons for hiring one is to investigate your case 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 complicated and bewildering. A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Lafayette County, MO will help you maneuver the legal system and understand 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 Lafayette 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 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 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 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 Lafayette County, MO, you can minimize the impact of criminal charges through probation or other sentencing options. If you are ultimately charged, as your Lafayette 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, 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 range 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 investigators, technical experts or other professionals to compile evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
• Find peace of mind: Facing the reality of Lafayette County, MO criminal charges can be a unsettling and uncertain time. By hiring an experienced defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte, you will have peace of mind knowing that you have a qualified professional advocating for your legal rights and standing beside you every step of 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. Get a consultation today by calling (314) 900-HELP or requesting one online.

At Combs Waterkotte in Lafayette County, MO, we’ve encountered clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in our practice from simple misdemeanors to complex felonies. Every type of charge brings its own set of legal complexities that require the expertise of a seasoned Lafayette County, MO defense attorney. Below are some of the most common types of criminal charges that we work. For additional case types, check out our full list of criminal defense practice areas or contact an attorney now.

Drug Charges

We often represent clients facing drug charges. 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 Lafayette County, MO, you owe it to yourself to hire a defense attorney near Lafayette County, MO who has handled drug-related charges. A skilled Combs Waterkotte attorney will question the legality of the search and seizure, argue against the admissibility of evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to obtain a favorable plea agreement.

DWI

DWI or driving while intoxicated charges are serious and can have serious consequences. 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 important to contact a defense attorney in Lafayette County, MO without delay. 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 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 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, such as 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 Lafayette County, MO can challenge the evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and protect your legal rights throughout the entire legal process.

Theft Charges

Embezzlement, identity theft, credit card fraud, and larceny are all instances of theft-related crimes. Conviction for any of these crimes 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 have an impact on 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 Lafayette 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 retain a defense attorney who has experience dealing with cases like yours. Each type of charge presents its own distinct legal issues and complications, and a skilled attorney can help you get through the complications of the criminal justice system and strive for the best possible outcome in your case. As a criminal defense law firm serving Lafayette County, MO, we are passionate about defending our clients’ legal rights and offering compassionate and effective representation. To schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your criminal case, get in touch with us today. Call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message.

FAQs our Attorneys Hear

What are the qualities of a good defense attorney?

You should look for an experienced defense attorney with experience in handling your specific type of case, one with a strong track record of success in the courtroom On top of that, you should look for a lawyer who is responsive to your needs and communicates clearly and effectively with you throughout the legal process.

How much does a defense attorney cost?

The cost of legal representation from a qualified Lafayette 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 stay out of jail?

Even though there is no assurance that you can avoid jail time, an adept defense attorney similar to those from Combs Waterkotte can aim to secure plea deals, dispute the proof presented by the prosecution, and create a robust case on your behalf. Ultimately, your case result will depend on various factors, such as the strength of the evidence against you and the decision of the judge and prosecutor handling your case.

Speak to a Defense Attorney in Lafayette 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 important that you act right away. You deserve a robust defense and a chance for fair treatment from the court.

Your Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer will stand proudly by your side and serve as your ally, someone you can trust to act in your best interest and fight for your rights and fair treatment. Reach out to the Combs Waterkotte office to speak to an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Lafayette County, MO right away. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or request a consultation online.