Homicide lawyer in Platte County, MO. Being charged with homicide in Platte 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 Platte County, 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.
The Different Types of Platte County, 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 Platte County, MO that may apply is crucial:
First-Degree Murder
First-degree murder in Platte 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 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 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 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 Should I Do If I’m Charged with Homicide in Platte County, MO?
Homicide is a manner of death, when one individual causes 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 Platte County, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Platte County, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:
- Consult a Lawyer: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney on your side in Platte County, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A good lawyer can analyze police reports, gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and build 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. Reach us 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, 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. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Platte County, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
- Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Unfortunately, in today’s society, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This stigma can negatively affect your mental well-being and lead you to consider actions you might not otherwise contemplate. Thankfully, your Combs Waterkotte Platte County, 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 Platte County, MO
Facing homicide charges in or around Platte County, 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 Platte County, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:
- Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide legal team will launch a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic data, witness testimonies, and all relevant materials. They may also work with private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our tenacious homicide lawyers will examine every detail of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a not-guilty verdict.
- Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: You have certain rights guaranteed by Platte County, MO and Missouri law, as well as by the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights protect you and help ensure that our justice system remains fair and impartial. Unfortunately, our Platte County, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We do everything in our power to protect your rights and future. Three of the most violated rights in Platte County, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
- Due Process Violations: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you are entitled 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. 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 Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that police must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to legal representation, as well as a warning that anything you say can be used against you 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. 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 Platte County, MO and beyond. This means they must present factual justification for 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 skilled professionals in the Platte County, MO area, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
- Negotiate Lesser Charges: A skilled and proactive Platte County, MO homicide attorney can negotiate with the prosecution 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’re accused of homicide in Platte County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the best homicide lawyer in Platte County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Platte County and beyond:
Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Platte County, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
As homicide in Platte County, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in Platte County, MO immediately. Our experienced legal team understands Missouri laws and is dedicated to working tirelessly to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If you’re dealing with a homicide charge in or around Platte County, MO, don’t wait.
Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Platte County, 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 case review.
