Crestwood, MO

Homicide lawyer in Crestwood, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Crestwood, 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 Crestwood, 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.

The Different Types of Crestwood, MO Homicide Charges

Homicide charges vary depending on the circumstances and intent behind the killing. It’s important to understand the different types of homicide charges that could apply:

First-Degree Murder

First-degree murder in Crestwood, MO involves a planned and intentional killing. This charge is classified as a class A felony, typically resulting in life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, or even the death penalty, depending on the specifics of the case.

Second-Degree Murder

Second-degree murder encompasses intentional killings that occur without premeditation. This charge is also a class A felony and can lead to sentences of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment. Unlike murder in the first degree, individuals convicted of this crime may qualify 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 charge involves causing the death of another through reckless or negligent driving. The charges can vary from a misdemeanor to a felony, with penalties depending on whether drugs, alcohol, or extreme recklessness were factors.

What Do I Do If I’m Accused Of Homicide in Crestwood, MO?

Homicide is a manner of death, 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 Crestwood, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Crestwood, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:

• Hire an Attorney: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Crestwood, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A qualified attorney can review police reports, gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and build a robust defense strategy. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Reach 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, take that seriously. Making statements during an investigation could sway the case against you and offer prosecutors evidence to demonstrate your guilt. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Crestwood, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Unfortunately, in today’s society, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This can deeply alter your mental well-being and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Crestwood, MO homicide lawyer is aware of the challenges you’re facing and can help you find hope amid adversity.

Why You Should Hire a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Crestwood, MO

Facing homicide charges in or around Crestwood, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. You shouldn’t gamble with your future or choose a lawyer based on an advertisement. Securing a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney could determine whether you receive a reduced sentence, achieve freedom, or face life imprisonment. Here’s how the Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team can support you in Crestwood, MO:

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide attorneys will conduct an exhaustive investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, reviewing police reports, forensic data, witness accounts, and any other pertinent information. They may also work with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our dedicated homicide attorneys will examine every detail of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This could result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a not-guilty verdict.
• Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: You have protected rights guaranteed by Crestwood, MO and Missouri law, as well as by the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights protect you and help ensure that our justice system remains fair and impartial. Unfortunately, our Crestwood, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We do everything in our power to protect your rights and future. Here are three frequently violated rights during Crestwood, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • 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 includes being informed 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 Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that police must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to legal representation, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Police only need to read your Miranda rights if they are detaining you and intend to use your statements in a court of law. While you can waive these rights, it’s not advisable. Instead, assert your right to remain silent and contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
  • Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment safeguards against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Crestwood, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they must provide factual justification for their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. Evidence gathered through unlawful searches may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Engage Expert Witnesses: Our team at Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of skilled professionals in and around Crestwood, MO, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can enlist these specialists to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
• Negotiate Lesser Charges: A skilled and proactive Crestwood, 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 facing homicide charges in or around Crestwood, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best homicide lawyer in Crestwood, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Crestwood, MO residents:

• Gun Crime Lawyer
• 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

Reach Out to an Expert Crestwood, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

Given the severity of homicide charges, it’s crucial for anyone facing such allegations to consult a Crestwood, MO homicide lawyer as soon as possible. Our experienced legal team has a deep understanding of Missouri laws and is committed to doing everything possible to have your charges reduced or dropped. If you’re facing a homicide charge anywhere near Crestwood, MO, take action now.

Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Crestwood, MO now to protect your rights, your future, and to secure the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, no-obligation case assessment.