Maryland Heights, MO

Homicide lawyer in Maryland Heights, MO. Being charged with homicide in Maryland Heights, 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 Maryland Heights, MO or anywhere across Missouri, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.

Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with an expert criminal defense attorney. Our legal team has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.

The Different Types of Maryland Heights, MO Homicide Charges

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 Maryland Heights, 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 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 involves causing the death of another through reckless or negligent driving. The charges can vary from a misdemeanor to a felony, with penalties depending on whether drugs, alcohol, or extreme recklessness were factors.

What Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in Maryland Heights, 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 are facing homicide charges in Maryland Heights, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Maryland Heights, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:

• Hire an Attorney: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Maryland Heights, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A good lawyer can analyze police reports, gather critical evidence, speak with witnesses, and develop a solid 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” while reading you your Miranda rights, heed their warning. Saying the wrong thing during an investigation could sway the case against you and offer prosecutors evidence to demonstrate your guilt. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Maryland Heights, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Understand You are Innocent Until Proven Guilty: Unfortunately, in today’s society, being accused of a crime can lead many to presume your guilty. This can deeply alter your mental well-being and lead you to consider actions you might not otherwise contemplate. Thankfully, your Combs Waterkotte Maryland Heights, MO homicide lawyer 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 Maryland Heights, MO

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Maryland Heights, 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 could determine whether you receive a reduced sentence, achieve freedom, or face life imprisonment. Here’s how the Maryland Heights, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide legal team will initiate a detailed investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, examining police reports, forensic evidence, witness statements, and any other pertinent information. They may also work 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 examine every detail of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This could result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or an acquittal.
• Ensure Your Rights are Protected: You have specific rights guaranteed by Maryland Heights, MO and Missouri law, as well as by the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights are essential for ensuring a fair and impartial justice system. Our Maryland Heights, MO criminal defense attorneys have unfortunately encountered numerous instances where our clients’ rights were violated. We are committed to protecting your rights and securing your future throughout the Maryland Heights, MO area. Three of the most violated rights in Maryland Heights, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
  • 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 means you’re entitled to receive notice 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 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, your right to legal representation, 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 you can waive these rights, it’s not advisable. Instead, assert your right to remain silent and contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer right away at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
  • Unlawful 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 Maryland Heights, MO and beyond. This means they need to present factual evidence to support their belief that a crime was or is being committed. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
• Secure Expert Testimony: Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of experts in and around Maryland Heights, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
• Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A skilled and proactive Maryland Heights, 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 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 are accused of homicide in or around Maryland Heights, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the ideal homicide lawyer in Maryland Heights, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our experienced homicide attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Maryland Heights 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

Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Maryland Heights, 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 Maryland Heights, MO homicide attorney right away. Our experienced legal team is well-versed in Missouri laws and will do everything in its power to make sure your charges are dropped or reduced. If you’re confronted with a homicide charge anywhere near Maryland Heights, MO, don’t delay.

Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Maryland Heights, 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 assessment.