Farmington, MO

Homicide lawyer in Farmington, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Farmington, 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 Farmington, MO or anywhere in Missouri, speaking with an experienced homicide lawyer right away is essential.

Don’t hesitate to call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. Discuss your case in detail with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our firm has handled more than 10,000 cases like yours with proven results.

Homicide Charges in Farmington, 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 in Farmington, 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 the unlawful killing of someone without the intent to end their life. It can be categorized as voluntary – triggered by a sudden emotional reaction – or involuntary – resulting from careless or reckless actions. This offense is classified 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 Farmington, MO?

Homicide occurs when one individual causes the death of another. However, not all instances of homicide quality as murder; some may be classified as manslaughter, while others may be deemed lawful, such as cases involving an affirmative defense like self-defense or insanity.

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

• Contact a Lawyer: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Farmington, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A good lawyer can review police reports, gather critical evidence, speak with witnesses, and build 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.
• Remain Silent: 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 investigations could potentially change the outcome of your case and give prosecutors ample material to prove guilt. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Farmington, MO is crucial to ensuring you communicate effectively.
• Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Sadly, in this day and age, being accused of a crime can lead many to presume your guilty. This perception can significantly impact your mental health and lead you to consider actions you might not otherwise contemplate. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Farmington, MO homicide lawyer understands what you are going through.

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

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Farmington, MO. It’s critical not to leave your future to chance or to rely on a lawyer whose name you saw on a billboard or bus stop. Securing a knowledgeable 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 Farmington, MO:

• Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide legal team will conduct an exhaustive investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, examining police reports, forensic data, witness accounts, and any other material. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• Spot Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Argument: Our relentless homicide attorneys will meticulously analyze every detail of the case to find flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or a not-guilty verdict.
• Ensure Your Rights are Protected: You have protected rights under Farmington, MO and Missouri law, as well as the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights are essential for ensuring a fair and impartial justice system. Our Farmington, MO criminal defense attorneys have unfortunately encountered numerous instances where our clients’ rights were violated. We are dedicated to defending your rights and securing your future throughout the Farmington, MO area. Here are three frequently violated rights during Farmington, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Due Process Violations: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, you have the right to due process, ensuring fair treatment throughout 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. Withholding it is a violation of your due process rights.
  • Failure to Provide the Miranda Warning: In the landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that police must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to a lawyer, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Officers only need to read your Miranda rights if they are detaining you and intend to use your statements in a court of law. 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.
  • Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment safeguards against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in Farmington, MO and beyond. This means they need to present facts justifying their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. Evidence gathered through unlawful searches may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Secure Expert Testimony: Our team at Combs Waterkotte collaborates with a broad array of experts in and around Farmington, MO, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can enlist these specialists to challenge key elements of the case, such as the cause of death.
• Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A talented and proactive Farmington, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, particularly if the evidence against you is overwhelming. The Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers always act in your best interest. While they may provide guidance and expert legal advice, the final decision is yours.

If you’re accused of homicide in or around Farmington, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best homicide lawyer in Farmington, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Farmington 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 Farmington, 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 Farmington, 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 in or around Farmington, MO, don’t wait.

Get in touch with an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Farmington, MO today to protect your rights and future while ensuring the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a no-obligation case assessment.