Carrollton, MO

Homicide lawyer in Carrollton, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Carrollton, MO is probably one of the most critical legal challenges anyone can endure. These accusations carry harsh punishments, including extended jail time or even the possibility of the death penalty. If you’ve been charged with homicide in Carrollton, MO or anywhere in Missouri, speaking with an experienced homicide lawyer right away is essential.

Contact Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free, one-on-one consultation. You’ll have the chance to discuss the specifics of your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our seasoned team has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.

Homicide Charges in Carrollton, MO and Across Missouri

Homicide charges can differ based on the intent and situation surrounding the killing. It’s essential to grasp the various types of homicide charges that may be relevant:

First-Degree Murder

First-degree murder is the most serious homicide charge, involving a deliberate and premeditated act. This offense is classified as a class A felony, often resulting in a life sentence without the possibility of parole, or even the death penalty, depending on the details of the case.

Second-Degree Murder

Second-degree murder refers to an intentional killing that lacks premeditation. Also categorized as a class A felony, this crime can lead to prison sentences ranging from 10 to 30 years, or potentially life. Unlike first-degree murder, those convicted may be eligible for parole after serving at least 85 percent of their sentence.

Manslaughter:

Manslaughter is defined as the unlawful killing of another individual without the intention to take their life. It can be classified as voluntary – occurring in a moment of passion – or involuntary – resulting from reckless or negligent conduct. Manslaughter is categorized as a class B or class C felony.

Vehicular Manslaughter

This involves causing an individual’s death through reckless or negligent driving. Charges range from a misdemeanor to a felony, and penalties for vehicular manslaughter vary depending on whether drugs, alcohol, or extreme recklessness were involved.

What Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in Carrollton, MO?

Homicide occurs when one individual causes the death of another. Not all homicide is murder though, as some deaths caused by another individual are manslaughter, and some are lawful – like when justified by an affirmative defense, such as insanity or self-defense.

If you’re accused of homicide in Carrollton, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Carrollton, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:

• Consult a Lawyer: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer on your side in Carrollton, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can review police reports, gather critical evidence, speak with witnesses, and develop a solid defense. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Keep Quiet: When police advise you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” while reading you your Miranda rights, heed their warning. Making statements during an investigation could sway the case against you and offer prosecutors evidence to demonstrate your guilt. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Carrollton, MO is crucial to ensuring you communicate effectively.
• Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Unfortunately, in today’s society, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This perception can significantly impact your mental health and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte Carrollton, MO homicide lawyer understands what you are going through.

The Importance of Hiring a Combs Waterkotte Carrollton, MO Homicide Lawyer

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Carrollton, MO. You can’t leave this to chance or to a lawyer found on a billboard or bus stop. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can mean the difference between a lighter sentence or even freedom and spending years in prison. Here’s how the Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team can support you in Carrollton, MO:

• Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide attorneys will launch a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic data, witness statements, and any other pertinent information. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our tenacious homicide attorneys will examine every detail of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or an acquittal.
• Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: Under Carrollton, MO and Missouri law, as well as the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights, you possess specific rights. These rights protect you and help ensure that our justice system remains fair and impartial. Unfortunately, our Carrollton, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are dedicated to defending your rights and securing your future throughout the Carrollton, MO area. Three of the most violated rights in Carrollton, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
  • Violations of Due Process: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you are entitled to due process, ensuring fair treatment in the legal system. This means you’re entitled to receive notice of the charges against you and having the chance to respond. You also have the right to an unbiased judge or jury to evaluate your guilt or innocence. Prosecutors must provide all exculpatory evidence, and failing to do so infringes on your due process rights.
  • Failure to Provide the Miranda Warning: In the landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that police must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Police only need to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. Although you may waive these rights, it’s advisable to assert your right to remain silent and contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer immediately at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
  • Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment safeguards against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Carrollton, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they must present factual evidence to support their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
• Engage Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of skilled professionals in and around Carrollton, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can call these experts to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
• Negotiate Lesser Charges: A talented and proactive Carrollton, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, especially if the evidence against you is compelling. At Combs Waterkotte, our attorneys prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.

When you’re accused of homicide in Carrollton, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading homicide lawyer in Carrollton, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our experienced homicide lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Carrollton and beyond:

• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
• Assault Lawyer
• Rape Defense Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer

Contact a Skilled Carrollton, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

Since homicide is a serious felony crime, it’s essential for anyone facing these charges to speak with a Carrollton, MO homicide attorney right away. Our experienced legal team understands Missouri laws and is committed to doing everything possible to have your charges reduced or dropped. If you’re confronted with a homicide charge anywhere near Carrollton, MO, don’t delay.

Contact an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Carrollton, MO now to protect your rights and future while ensuring the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, no-obligation case review.