Ferguson, MO

Homicide lawyer in Ferguson, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Ferguson, MO is one of the most severe legal challenges anyone can encounter. These charges carry serious consequences, including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty. If you have been accused of homicide in Ferguson, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you need to speak with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.

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 Ferguson, 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 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 refers to the act of causing someone’s death through reckless or negligent driving. Charges may range from a misdemeanor to a felony, and the penalties for vehicular manslaughter depend on whether substances like drugs or alcohol, or factors such as extreme recklessness, were involved.

What Should I Do If I’m Charged with Homicide in Ferguson, MO?

Homicide refers to the act of one individual causing 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 mental incapacity.

If you are facing homicide charges in Ferguson, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Ferguson, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:

• Contact a Lawyer: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Ferguson, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A good lawyer can analyze police reports, collect critical evidence, speak with witnesses, and develop a strong defense. They can also look for potential ways to get your charges reduced or outright dismissed, or plan an effective, winning trial strategy. Give us a call at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Keep Quiet: When law enforcement informs you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” during the reading of your Miranda rights, take that seriously. Saying the wrong thing during an investigation can significantly impact the outcome of your case and provide prosecutors with evidence to establish your guilt. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Ferguson, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Understand You are Innocent Until Proven Guilty: Sadly, in this day and age, simply being accused of a crime automatically makes you guilty in the minds of many people. This perception can significantly impact your mental health and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Ferguson, MO homicide attorney understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.

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

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Ferguson, MO. You shouldn’t gamble with your future or choose a lawyer based on an advertisement. Securing a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can be the difference between a reduced sentence or freedom and a life behind bars. Here’s how the Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team can support you in Ferguson, MO:

• Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide attorneys will conduct an exhaustive investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, examining police documents, forensic evidence, witness statements, and any other pertinent information. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our relentless homicide lawyers will meticulously analyze every detail of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. Identifying these weaknesses could lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or an acquittal.
• Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: You have protected rights under Ferguson, 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. Unfortunately, our Ferguson, 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 Ferguson, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Violations of Due Process: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you have the right to due process, ensuring fair treatment throughout the legal system. This includes being informed of the charges against you and the opportunity 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 Read 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 prior to any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Officers only need to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. While waiving these rights is an option, it’s best to assert your right to remain silent and immediately contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer at (314) 900-HELP or reach out 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 Ferguson, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they need to provide facts justifying their belief that a crime was or is being committed. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
• Provide Expert Witnesses: Our team at Combs Waterkotte collaborates with a broad array of skilled professionals in the Ferguson, MO area, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these specialists to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
• Negotiate for Reduced Charges: An experienced and proactive Ferguson, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, 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.

When you’re accused of homicide in Ferguson, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the best homicide lawyer in Ferguson, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Ferguson, MO residents:

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

Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Ferguson, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

As homicide in Ferguson, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in Ferguson, MO immediately. Our experienced legal team has a deep understanding of Missouri laws and is dedicated to working tirelessly to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If you’re facing a homicide charge in or around Ferguson, MO, don’t wait.

Get in touch with an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Ferguson, MO now 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 review.