Defense attorney in Union, MO. The moments after an arrest or criminal accusation are critical. Fear and uncertainty are normal, but inaction can cost you your freedom and future. With an experienced Union, MO defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte on your side, you gain a powerful advocate ready to challenge the prosecution, protect your rights, and fight for your best outcome, in and out of court.
If you’re under investigation or already facing charges, time is not on your side in Union, MO. Prosecutors are gathering evidence right now. Our skilled legal team will immediately start building your defense, working to suppress harmful evidence and seek dismissal, reduction, or acquittal. Call (314) 900-HELP or request a free consultation today and put our trial-tested team to work for you.
Article Summary
Being charged with a crime in Union, MO can feel overwhelming. But, you don’t have to face the legal system alone. This page explains the critical role a skilled Union, MO defense attorney plays in protecting your rights, minimizing the consequences, and guiding you through every stage of the criminal process. We covered the types of charges Combs Waterkotte handles, from drug offenses and DWIs to violent crimes and white-collar cases, as well as the steps involved from arrest to trial. Our team brings decades of combined experience, a client-centered approach, and proven courtroom success to every case we take. Whether your goal is dismissal, reduced charges, or an acquittal, we fight tirelessly for the best possible outcome. If you are facing criminal charges in Union, MO, now is the time to act.
What Your Union, MO Defense Attorney Does
When you hire a defense attorney in Union, MO, you put a dedicated legal team between you and the prosecution. Our mission is simple: safeguard your rights and make sure the police, prosecutors, and courts follow the law. From the first accusation to the final verdict, we work to shield you from jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record, no matter if you’re facing a misdemeanor, felony, or federal case.
Our work goes far beyond showing up to court in the Union, MO area. We dig deep into the evidence, talk to witnesses, bring in experts, and build a case designed to give you the strongest possible position. This trial-ready approach allows us to negotiate from a position of strength, fight for dismissals, and minimize penalties whenever possible. To us, your case is personal, because we know how much is at stake for you and your family.
Benefits of Hiring a Union, MO Defense Attorney
Going it alone or putting your future in the hands of a busy public defender can put everything at risk. Hiring an experienced defense attorney in Union, MO levels the playing field and gives you a real chance to beat the charges or reduce the penalties. Here’s how we help:
- Shield Your Rights: We fight to throw out illegally obtained evidence and hold police accountable for unlawful searches or interrogations.
- Thorough Case Investigation: We dig deeper than the prosecution, finding witnesses, uncovering exculpatory evidence, and exposing flaws in the state’s case.
- Guide You Through the Legal System: Our experienced defense attorney in Union, MO guides you through each court appearance and legal decision so nothing catches you off guard.
- Provide Skilled Counsel: You get clear explanations of the charges, potential penalties, and available defenses so you can make informed decisions.
- Negotiate for the Best Outcome: From reduced charges to probation or dismissal, we work for resolutions that minimize the impact on your life.
- Stand Up for You at Trial: If your case goes before a judge or jury, we are ready to present a strong defense strategy and fight for your freedom.
- Protect Your Future: We work to protect your job, family, and reputation, and can assist with record expungement or sealing where possible.
- Provide Peace of Mind: Having a knowledgeable Union, MO lawyer on your side gives you confidence and lets you focus on moving forward with your life.
Criminal Charges We Defend in Union, MO
The attorneys at Combs Waterkotte defend Union, MO clients against nearly every type of criminal allegation. Whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or a life-changing felony, we have the courtroom experience, resources, and determination to protect your rights and fight for the best result:
Union, MO Drug Charges
Whether you’re facing possession, intent to distribute, or trafficking charges, we fight to get evidence suppressed, charges reduced, or sentencing alternatives like treatment programs approved in the Union, MO area.
Union, MO DWI/DUI Charges
A DWI arrest can threaten your license, job, and freedom. We challenge illegal traffic stops, field sobriety tests, and breathalyzer results to protect your driving privileges and minimize penalties.
Gun & Weapons Charges in the Union, MO Area
Gun charges can carry severe penalties. We defend against accusations of unlawful possession, carrying without a permit, or using a weapon during a criminal act, protecting both your freedom and your Second Amendment rights.
Defense for Violent Crime Charges in Union, MO
Charges like assault, homicide, and robbery carry severe penalties. We analyze witness credibility, forensic evidence, and self-defense claims to protect your freedom.
Sex Crimes in Union, MO
Accusations of sexual misconduct, exploitation, or possession of illegal images in Union, MO can be devastating. We move fast to protect your reputation, dispute digital evidence, and work to prevent mandatory sex offender registration whenever possible.
Theft & White-Collar Crimes Union, MO
Charges like shoplifting, embezzlement, or fraud can lead to fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. We fight to get charges reduced or dismissed, protecting your career and your future opportunities throughout the Union, MO area.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Criminal Case Process in Union, MO
One of the most stressful parts of facing criminal charges is not knowing what happens next. At Combs Waterkotte, we believe knowledge is power—and that means helping you understand every stage of the process. Here’s what to expect when you’re facing criminal charges in Union or anywhere in Missouri:
Step 1: Law Enforcement Investigation
Most cases start long before an arrest is made. Police or federal agents may collect evidence, question witnesses, and build a file against you. During this phase, early legal representation can make all the difference—sometimes resulting in charges being reduced or avoided altogether.
Step 2: Arrest & Intake
If investigators believe there is probable cause, they’ll take you into custody. You’ll be processed, which includes photographs, fingerprints, and an official record of the arrest. Having a knowledgeable Union, MO defense attorney on your side at this stage can protect you from making costly mistakes during questioning or booking.
Step 3: Bail & Release Options
In many cases, you have the right to post bail to secure your release until trial. The judge sets the amount based on the severity of the charges, your criminal history, and flight risk. We can argue for reduced bail, personal recognizance release, or favorable bond conditions so you can return home and continue working while your case moves forward.
Step 4: Arraignment & Plea
Your arraignment is the moment the court officially puts you on record. We handle this crucial step for you—entering the appropriate plea, preventing missteps, and positioning your case for dismissal or negotiation from day one.
Step 5: Discovery Phase
The discovery phase is where we get to see what the prosecution has. We scrutinize every document, report, and recording, looking for violations of your rights and building motions to suppress anything illegally obtained.
Step 6: Pretrial Motions & Hearings
This is where many cases are won. Our team files aggressive motions to throw out evidence, challenge unreliable witnesses, and weaken the prosecutor’s case before it ever reaches a jury.
Step 7: Negotiations & Resolutions
If going to trial is not in your best interest, we work to secure the best possible deal through plea negotiations—reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or diversion programs. Prosecutors know we are ready for trial, which often leads to stronger negotiating power on your behalf.
Step 8: Trial & Verdict
If your Union, MO case proceeds to trial, we bring a trial-tested approach—questioning the prosecution’s witnesses, presenting evidence, and arguing to create reasonable doubt. Our goal is to secure a not-guilty verdict or minimize consequences as much as possible.
Step 9: Sentencing & Mitigation
Sentencing is your final chance to influence the outcome. We present a powerful case for leniency—emphasizing your positive contributions, rehabilitation, and reasons the court should consider alternatives to jail or reduce the sentence.
Step 10: Appeals & Post-Conviction Relief
Your fight doesn’t always end with sentencing. We can file appeals, seek sentence reductions, request expungements, or pursue post-conviction relief to clear your record. Our Union, MO defense attorneys remain committed to protecting your rights even after the verdict.
Key Takeaway: Understanding the process helps you make informed decisions and stay one step ahead of the prosecution. The earlier you involve a Union, MO defense attorney, the more opportunities you have to shape the outcome in your favor.
Franklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Franklin County and Missouri.
Free book
How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Charged with a crime? The lawyer you hire matters. Combs Waterkotte, recognized for top-tier criminal defense in Missouri and Southern Illinois, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Defense Attorney in Union, MO?
Criminal charges can change your life in an instant—your lawyer should change it back. The Combs Waterkotte team delivers aggressive, hands-on defense designed to keep you out of jail and protect your future.
Here’s what sets us apart for clients facing serious charges in Union, MO:
- Personalized Representation: We take the time to hear your side, explain the law clearly, and design a legal strategy that reflects your priorities and goals.
- Battle-Tested Trial Skills: Our Union, MO defense attorneys are relentless litigators who thrive in the courtroom and are never afraid to go to trial if that’s what your case demands.
- Access to Experts/Resources: From investigators and forensic experts to cutting-edge technology, we bring every resource necessary to level the playing field against the government.
- Leverage in Negotiation: Because we prepare every case as if it will go before a jury, prosecutors know they must take us seriously—often leading to better plea offers.
- Proven Results: We have a long history of case dismissals, charge reductions, and acquittals across Union, MO courts.
- Knowledge of the Local System: Our Union, MO defense attorneys know how local judges and prosecutors think, allowing us to anticipate challenges and stay ahead.
- 24/7 Support in Union, MO: Legal emergencies can happen anytime. We provide around-the-clock support to protect you when it matters most.
Bottom Line: When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you get a Union, MO defense team that fights as hard for your case as they would for their own family. Call (314) 900-HELP now or request a free consultation and put our experience to work for you today.
When you hire a Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Union, MO, you’re not just hiring a top-rated defense attorney in and around Union, MO – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with esteemed defense attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Union and beyond:
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions From Our Defense Attorneys in Union, MO
What should I consider when hiring a Union, MO defense attorney?
Choose a lawyer with proven courtroom experience, excellent communication skills, and a strong track record of getting charges reduced or dismissed. Your Union, MO attorney should be responsive and make you feel confident about your defense strategy.
How much does a Union, MO defense attorney cost?
The cost of legal services varies by case complexity and whether it goes to trial. We offer straightforward pricing and a free consultation so you can make an informed choice without surprises.
Can a defense attorney keep me out of jail?
In many cases, yes. Our legal team works to minimize the risk of incarceration by seeking dismissals, negotiating for probation, or using diversion programs where available, always with the goal of protecting your future.
Contact a Union, MO Defense Attorney Today
When you are facing criminal charges, every moment counts. The earlier you hire an experienced Union, MO defense lawyer, the better chance we have to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and shape the outcome of your case. Our team is ready to step in immediately and fight for you.
Call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online today for a free, no-obligation case review and take the first step toward protecting your rights and future.
