Lewis County, MO

Homicide lawyer in Lewis County, MO. Being charged with homicide in Lewis County, 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 Lewis County, 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.

Homicide Charges in Lewis County, MO and Across Missouri

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 in Lewis County, 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 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 Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in Lewis County, MO?

Homicide is a manner of death, 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 Lewis County, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Lewis County, 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 Lewis County, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can analyze police reports, gather critical evidence, interview 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.
• Remain Silent: 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 investigations could potentially change the outcome of your case and give prosecutors ample material to prove guilt. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Lewis County, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Unfortunately, in today’s society, simply being accused of a crime automatically makes you guilty in the minds of many people. This can deeply alter your mental health and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Thankfully, your Combs Waterkotte Lewis County, MO homicide attorney understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.

Why You Should Hire a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Lewis County, MO

Facing homicide charges in or around Lewis County, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. 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 helps in Lewis County, MO:

• Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will initiate a detailed investigation into the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic data, witness statements, and any other material. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Spot Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Argument: Our tenacious homicide lawyers will examine every aspect of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This could lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or a successful acquittal.
• Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: Under Lewis County, MO and Missouri law, as well as the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights, you possess specific rights. These rights are essential for ensuring a fair and impartial justice system. Unfortunately, our Lewis County, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are dedicated to defending your rights and securing your future throughout the Lewis County, MO area. Here are three frequently violated rights during Lewis County, 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 means you’re entitled to receive notice 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 constitutes a violation of your due process rights.
  • Failure to Read the Miranda Warning: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that police must inform you of your rights prior to any conducting 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 are only required 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 protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Lewis County, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they must present factual evidence to support their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
• Engage Expert Witnesses: Our team at Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of skilled professionals in and around Lewis County, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can call these experts to challenge key elements of the case, such as the cause of death.
• Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A skilled and proactive Lewis County, MO homicide attorney can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, especially if the evidence against you is overwhelming. At Combs Waterkotte, our attorneys prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.

If you’re facing homicide charges in or around Lewis County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the ideal homicide lawyer in Lewis County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Lewis County, MO residents:

• 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 Lewis County, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

Given the severity of homicide charges, it’s crucial for anyone facing such allegations to consult a Lewis County, MO homicide lawyer as soon as possible. Our experienced legal team understands Missouri laws and is dedicated to working tirelessly to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If you’re facing a homicide charge anywhere near Lewis County, MO, don’t delay.

Contact an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Lewis County, MO today 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 review.