Florissant, MO

Homicide lawyer in Florissant, MO. Being charged with homicide in Florissant, MO is one of the most serious legal battles you could ever face. The penalties can be life-altering, ranging from long-term imprisonment to capital punishment. If you’ve been accused of homicide in Florissant, MO or anywhere across Missouri, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.

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.

Types of Homicide Charges in Florissant, MO and Throughout Missouri

Homicide charges can differ significantly based on the circumstances surrounding the act and the intent behind it. Understanding the various types of homicide charges in Florissant, MO that may apply is crucial:

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 involves an intentional killing that was not premeditated. Also a class A felony, this offense can carry prison sentences ranging from 10 to 30 years, or even life. This differs from the first degree in that you may qualify for parole after serving more than 85 percent of the sentence.

Manslaughter:

Manslaughter refers to the unlawful killing of another individual without the intent to kill. It can be either voluntary – in the heat of passion – or involuntary – due to reckless or negligent behavior. Manslaughter is 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 Do I Do If I’m Accused Of Homicide in Florissant, MO?

Homicide refers to the act of one individual causing 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 Florissant, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Florissant, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:

• Hire an Attorney: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Florissant, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A good lawyer can analyze police reports, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and create a robust defense strategy. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Give us a call 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 an ill-timed statement 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 Florissant, MO is crucial to ensuring you communicate effectively.
• Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Sadly, in this day and age, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This can deeply alter your mental well-being and lead you to consider actions you might not otherwise contemplate. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Florissant, MO homicide lawyer understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.

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

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Florissant, 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 be the difference between a reduced sentence or freedom and a life behind bars. Here’s how the Florissant, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will launch a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, examining police reports, forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and any other pertinent information. They may also work with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our relentless homicide attorneys will scrutinize every detail of the case to find flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This could result in the dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or an acquittal.
• Ensure Your Rights are Protected: You have specific rights under Florissant, 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 Florissant, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are committed to defending your rights and securing your future throughout the Florissant, MO area. Three of the most violated rights in Florissant, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
  • Due Process Violations: 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: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement must inform you of your rights prior to any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Officers are only required 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 get in touch online.
  • Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Florissant, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they must provide facts justifying their belief that a crime was or is being committed. Evidence gathered through unlawful searches may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Secure Expert Testimony: Our team at Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of skilled professionals in and around Florissant, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these specialists to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
• Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A talented and proactive Florissant, MO homicide attorney can negotiate with the prosecution 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 facing homicide charges in or around Florissant, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading homicide lawyer in Florissant, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our experienced homicide lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Florissant 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

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

Given the severity of homicide charges, it’s crucial for anyone facing such allegations to consult a Florissant, MO homicide lawyer as soon as possible. Our experienced legal team is well-versed in 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 Florissant, MO, don’t wait.

Contact an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Florissant, 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 review.