Lebanon, MO

Homicide lawyer in Lebanon, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Lebanon, 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 Lebanon, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you need to speak 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 Lebanon, MO and Throughout 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

The most serious of homicide charges, first-degree murder involves a premeditated, intentional killing. This is class A felony, often carrying life imprisonment without eligibility for probation or parole, or even the death penalty depending on the circumstances.

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

• Consult a Lawyer: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer on your side in Lebanon, 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 create a strong defense. 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.
• Do Not Say Anything: 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, take that seriously. Making statements 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 Lebanon, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Understand You are Innocent Until Proven Guilty: Sadly, in our current climate, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This perception can significantly impact your mental well-being and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte Lebanon, MO homicide attorney 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 Lebanon, MO

Facing homicide charges in or around Lebanon, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. You can’t leave this to chance or to a lawyer found 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 Lebanon, MO:

• Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide lawyers will initiate a detailed investigation into your case, reviewing police documents, forensic data, witness statements, and all relevant materials. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our relentless homicide attorneys will scrutinize every aspect of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may result in the dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or a not-guilty verdict.
• Ensure Your Rights are Protected: Under Lebanon, 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 Lebanon, 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 Lebanon, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Violations of Due Process: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, you are entitled to due process, ensuring fair treatment in 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 established that police must inform you of your rights prior to any conducting any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to a lawyer, as well as a warning that anything you say can be used against you in court. Police are only required to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. 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.
  • Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in Lebanon, MO and beyond. This means they must present 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 has access to a diverse network of experts in and around Lebanon, MO, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can call these specialists to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
• Negotiate Lesser Charges: A talented and aggressive Lebanon, MO homicide attorney 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 compelling. At Combs Waterkotte, our lawyers prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.

If you are facing homicide charges in or around Lebanon, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the ideal homicide lawyer in Lebanon, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our experienced homicide attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Lebanon and beyond:

• 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 Lebanon, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

As homicide in Lebanon, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in Lebanon, 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 anywhere near Lebanon, MO, don’t wait.

Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Lebanon, 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.