Independence, MO

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

The Different Types of Independence, 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 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 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 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 Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in Independence, 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 mental incapacity.

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

• Hire an Attorney: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer on your side in Independence, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can help review police reports, collect evidence, talk to witnesses, and build a robust defense strategy. They can also seek ways to have charges reduced or dismissed and formulate an effective trial strategy. Reach us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Remain Silent: When law enforcement informs you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” while reading you your Miranda rights, believe them. Making an ill-timed statement during an investigation could sway the case against you and offer prosecutors evidence to demonstrate your guilt. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Independence, MO is crucial to ensuring you communicate effectively.
• Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Sadly, in our current climate, simply being accused of a crime automatically makes you guilty in the minds of many people. This can deeply alter your mental health and lead you to consider actions you might not otherwise contemplate. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte Independence, MO homicide lawyer understands what you are going through.

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

Facing homicide charges in or around Independence, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. 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. Hiring an experienced 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 Independence, MO:

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will launch a thorough investigation into the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic data, witness testimonies, and any other pertinent information. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our relentless homicide attorneys will meticulously analyze every detail of the case to find flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This could lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or an acquittal.
• Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: Under Independence, 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. Our Independence, MO criminal defense attorneys have unfortunately seen a number of situations where our clients’ rights were violated. We do everything in our power to protect your rights and future. Here are three frequently violated rights during Independence, 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 in the legal system. This includes being informed of the charges against you and having the chance to respond. Additionally, you have the right to an impartial judge or jury to determine 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 established that police must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, the 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 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 you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in Independence, MO and beyond. This means they must provide factual evidence to support 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: Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of skilled professionals in and around Independence, MO, 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.
• Advocate for Lesser Charges: A skilled and aggressive Independence, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, especially if the evidence against you is compelling. 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 facing homicide charges in or around Independence, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading homicide lawyer in Independence, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Independence and beyond:

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

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

Since homicide is a serious felony crime, it’s essential for anyone facing these charges to speak with a Independence, 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 Independence, MO, take action now.

Get in touch with an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Independence, 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 assessment.