Maryville, MO

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

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.

Homicide Charges in Maryville, 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 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 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 Maryville, 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 are facing homicide charges in Maryville, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Maryville, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:

• Hire an Attorney: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Maryville, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can analyze police reports, collect critical evidence, speak with witnesses, and develop a solid defense. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Reach us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Do Not Say Anything: When police say “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” while reading you your Miranda rights, believe them. Saying the wrong thing during an investigation can significantly impact the outcome of your case and provide prosecutors with evidence to establish your guilt. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Maryville, MO is crucial to ensuring you communicate effectively.
• Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Sadly, in our current climate, simply being accused of a crime automatically makes you guilty in the minds of many people. This stigma can negatively affect your mental well-being and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Maryville, 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 Maryville, MO

Facing homicide charges in or around Maryville, 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 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 Maryville, MO:

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will conduct an exhaustive investigation into your case, examining police reports, forensic evidence, witness statements, and any other material. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our relentless homicide lawyers will scrutinize every aspect of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This could result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a successful acquittal.
• Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: Under Maryville, 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. Unfortunately, our Maryville, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are committed to protecting your rights and securing your future throughout the Maryville, MO area. Here are three frequently violated rights during Maryville, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Violations of Due Process: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you are entitled 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 constitutes a violation of your due process rights.
  • Failure to Read the Miranda Warning: In the landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, the right to a lawyer, as well as a warning that anything you say can be used against you in court. Police only need 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 reach out online.
  • Unlawful 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 Maryville, MO and beyond. This means they must provide 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.
• Engage Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of experts in the Maryville, MO area, 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 Lesser Charges: A talented and proactive Maryville, 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 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.

When you’re facing homicide charges in or around Maryville, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the ideal homicide lawyer in Maryville, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Maryville and beyond:

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

Contact a Skilled Maryville, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

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

Get in touch with an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Maryville, MO today to protect your rights, your future, and to secure the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, no-obligation case review.