Conspiracy Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Conspiracy Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Conspiracy Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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If you’re under investigation or already facing conspiracy charges in Missouri, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Combs Waterkotte is a leading Missouri criminal defense law firm with decades of experience handling complex conspiracy and white-collar crime allegations. We deliver strategic, aggressive defense with a long track record of successful outcomes.

Conspiracy Lawyer in Missouri

Even if no crime was completed, a conspiracy charge in Missouri can result in serious penalties. At Combs Waterkotte, we provide aggressive, strategic defense for individuals accused of conspiracy to commit white-collar, drug, or violent crimes in state or federal court. Our experienced St. Louis criminal defense attorneys know how to dismantle weak prosecution claims and protect your rights from the moment an investigation begins.

Understanding Conspiracy Charges in Missouri

Conspiracy is broadly defined as an agreement between two or more people to commit an unlawful act. Under Missouri law and federal statutes, you can be charged with conspiracy even if the alleged crime was never completed. All the prosecution needs to prove is:

• You agreed with at least one other person to commit a crime
• One party took a “substantial step” toward committing that crime

Examples of a “substantial step” include gathering materials, scouting a location, or communicating about the plan. You don’t have to directly participate in the crime to face charges — which makes conspiracy cases highly subjective and open to aggressive defense tactics.

Common Conspiracy Offenses We Defend

Our criminal defense lawyers have experience with conspiracy charges tied to a wide range of alleged offenses, including:

• White-Collar Crimes: Bank fraud, securities fraud, wire fraud
• Drug trafficking or distribution
• Armed robbery or assault
• Racketeering or RICO-related offenses
• Sex trafficking or exploitation
• Obstruction of justice or perjury

Because conspiracy charges often involve federal investigation and surveillance, our legal team understands how to challenge electronic evidence, cooperating witness testimony, and vague statements used to claim a “criminal agreement.”

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Federal Check and Credit Card Fraud Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Federal Check and Credit Card Fraud Law firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Federal Check and Credit Card Fraud Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Federal check and credit card fraud cases are more common than most people realize, and often prosecuted harshly by the U.S. government. Combs Waterkotte’s Missouri federal check and credit card fraud attorneys defend individuals facing access device fraud, bank fraud, and identity theft charges across both the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri. If you’re under investigation or already charged, our team is ready to protect your rights.

What Is Federal Check and Credit Card Fraud?

Federal check and credit card fraud refers to the unlawful use of financial instruments, such as checks, credit cards, debit cards, or account numbers, to obtain money, goods, or services by deceit. These crimes become federal offenses when they involve interstate commerce, the U.S. mail, or electronic systems like the internet.

Credit card fraud may involve using a stolen or counterfeit card, trafficking in card numbers, or unauthorized use of access devices. Check fraud may include altering checks, using forged or stolen checks, or depositing fraudulent checks into personal or business accounts.

Prosecutors don’t have to prove you personally stole a card or wrote a fake check, only that you used or possessed fraudulent instruments with the intent to defraud. Even minor losses or Missouri-only conduct can trigger federal charges if they involve federally regulated systems.

Is credit card fraud a federal felony? Yes. Most federal cases are charged as felonies, often carrying 10–20 years in prison, depending on the facts and prior history.

What is the federal law for credit card fraud? The key statute is 18 U.S.C. § 1029, which prohibits various forms of access device fraud. Additional statutes cover bank fraud, wire fraud, and unauthorized card use across state lines.

• 18 U.S.C. § 1029 – Access Device Fraud: Covers use, trafficking, and possession of counterfeit or unauthorized cards, numbers, or codes with intent to defraud.
• 18 U.S.C. § 1344 – Bank Fraud: Involves attempts to defraud a financial institution or obtain money from it by false pretenses.
• 18 U.S.C. § 1343 – Wire Fraud: Applies when fraud is carried out via internet, email, or other wire communications.
• 15 U.S. Code § 1644 – Fraudulent Use of Credit Cards: Covers the transport or use of credit cards obtained through fraud, theft, or other illegal means across state lines or through interstate commerce.

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DWI DUI License Restoration Lawyers serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading DWI DUI License Restoration Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

DWI DUI License Restoration Lawyers in Missouri

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Missouri DWI/DUI License Restoration Laws

Missouri has stringent DWI/DUI laws designed to enforce strict penalties on those who violate them. Driving is considered a privilege, not a right. Under the Implied Consent Law, if you refuse or fail a sobriety test, your license is automatically suspended for one year. If you take the test and are found over the legal limit, the consequences vary depending on your prior record:

• First Offense: 30-day license suspension followed by a 60-day restricted driving period.
• Second Offense: 1-year license revocation and a minimum 6 months with an ignition interlock device (IID).
• Second Offense (Within 5 Years): 5-year license revocation and a minimum 6 months with an IID.
• Third Offense: 10-year license revocation and a minimum 6 months with an IID.

How to Get Limited Driving Privileges in St. Louis and Missouri

If your driver's license has been suspended or revoked due to a DWI/DUI in Missouri, you may be eligible to apply for limited driving privileges (LDP), often called a hardship license. This can allow you to drive for specific purposes such as work, school, or essential daily needs.

Steps to obtain Limited Driving Privileges:

• Eligibility Check: Confirm that you qualify for LDP. Some first-time offenders may be eligible, but habitual offenders or those with recent refusals to submit to a chemical test may be excluded.
• File a Petition: File a petition with the circuit court in the county where you live, explaining your need for driving privileges.
• Provide Documentation: Submit proof of financial responsibility (SR-22 insurance) and proof that you have completed or are enrolled in the Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP).
• Install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID): If required, install an IID in your vehicle. This device prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.
• Court Hearing: Attend a hearing where a judge reviews your petition. You and your DWI/DUI defense lawyer explain why you need limited privileges and that you are not a danger to public safety.
• Adhere to Restrictions: If granted, follow all conditions of your limited driving privilege order carefully to avoid further penalties.
• Ongoing Compliance: Maintain SR-22 insurance and comply with all IID and court requirements for the duration of the order.

Restoring Your License After a First-Time DWI/DUI Conviction in Missouri

Restoring your driver’s license after a first-time DWI/DUI conviction in Missouri requires completing several mandatory steps. Combs Waterkotte can guide you through each requirement and help you avoid mistakes that delay reinstatement.

Mandatory steps to restore your license:

• Complete SATOP: Enroll in and complete the Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP).
• Submit SR-22: Obtain and file SR-22 proof of insurance for the required period.
• Pay Reinstatement Fees: Make sure all fines, court costs, and reinstatement fees are paid in full.

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Weapon Offense Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Weapon Offense Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Weapon Offense Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Weapons offenses in Missouri bring steep penalties, harsh prosecutors, and unforgiving public scrutiny. With an experienced defense team, these charges don’t have to define your future. Combs Waterkotte has more than 50 years of combined experience helping clients challenge even the most serious weapons allegations and fight for dismissals, reductions, or not guilty verdicts.

Weapons Offenses Lawyer in Missouri

Being charged with a weapons offense in Missouri is serious. The consequences can impact your freedom, your job, and the rest of your life. Our attorneys fight aggressively to protect your rights and your future.

Weapons Offenses We Defend in Missouri

Combs Waterkotte defends clients facing the full range of firearms and weapons charges—from misdemeanors to high-level felonies. Common charges include:

• Unlawful Use of a Weapon
• Armed Criminal Action
• Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit
• Possession of a Firearm While Intoxicated
• Illegal Discharge of a Firearm
• Unlawful Possession of Certain Weapons
• Possession of an Illegal Weapon
• Failure to Report a Shooting

Missouri Gun Laws & Penalties

Weapons charges in Missouri can result in jail or prison time, expensive fines, and a permanent criminal record. Some offenses come with mandatory minimum sentences.

Examples include:

• Unlawful Use of a Weapon – Class D felony, up to 7 years in prison
• Armed Criminal Action – Minimum 3 years in prison with no parole
• Illegal Firearm Possession – Felony charges for individuals with prior felonies or domestic violence convictions

Penalties increase if the weapon was used during another crime, if shots were fired, or if the offense occurred in a prohibited area such as a school, courthouse, or government building.

How a Combs Waterkotte Weapons Offenses Lawyer Can Help

Weapons charges can escalate quickly, and prosecutors often pursue the harshest penalties available. Our defense team:

• Conducts a deep investigation into the facts of your case
• Challenges illegal searches, seizures, and weak evidence
• Negotiates aggressively to reduce or dismiss charges
• Fights for acquittals at trial when necessary

With more than five decades of combined experience, our attorneys work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome.

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Statutory Sodomy Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Statutory Sodomy Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Statutory Sodomy Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Statutory sodomy charges are among the most severe sex crime allegations in Missouri. Convictions carry mandatory sex offender registration, long-term imprisonment, and life-altering consequences. Combs Waterkotte is Missouri’s leading criminal defense and sex crimes law firm. We are available 24/7 to protect your rights. Call (314) 900-HELP now for a confidential consultation.

Statutory Sodomy Laws in Missouri

Statutory sodomy involves any form of deviate sexual intercourse with a minor under the legal age of consent. Missouri law does not allow consent or mistake of age to serve as valid defenses in most cases.

First-Degree Statutory Sodomy – §566.062 RSMo

A person commits first-degree statutory sodomy if they engage in deviate sexual intercourse with a child under the age of 14.

Penalties include:

• 5 years to life in prison
• 10 years to life if the offense is aggravated (victim under 12, use of a weapon, serious injury, incest, or prior sex offense)
• No parole for offenders classified as predatory or repeat sexual offenders

Second-Degree Statutory Sodomy – §566.064 RSMo

A person 21 or older commits second-degree statutory sodomy if they engage in deviate sexual intercourse with someone under 17 years old.

Penalties include:

• Class D felony — up to 7 years in prison and fines up to $10,000

What Is “Deviate Sexual Intercourse” Under Missouri Law?

Missouri defines deviate sexual intercourse to include:

• Touching another person’s genitals, mouth, or anus with a hand, mouth, or tongue
• Penetration, however slight, of the genitals or anus with a finger, object, or instrument
• Acts performed for sexual arousal, gratification, intimidation, or harm

Mandatory Sex Offender Registration

Statutory sodomy convictions require lifetime registration as a Tier III sex offender. This includes:

• Severe employment and housing restrictions
• Ongoing public listing and monitoring
• In-person verification every 90 days

No Expungement Possible

A statutory sodomy conviction cannot be expunged. It remains on your criminal record for life.

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Combs Waterkotte is the leading Sexual Misconduct Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Sexual Misconduct Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Sexual misconduct charges can turn your life upside down. A conviction can damage your reputation, take away your freedom, and follow you for the rest of your life. Combs Waterkotte is the trusted St. Louis and Missouri sex crimes defense firm that stands beside clients in their most difficult moments. We offer confidential, nonjudgmental, and aggressive defense for anyone facing sexual misconduct allegations in Missouri.

Sexual Misconduct Laws in St. Louis and Missouri

Missouri divides sexual misconduct into three main categories, each with different definitions and penalties.

First-Degree Sexual Misconduct

Under §566.093 RSMo, a person commits first-degree sexual misconduct if they:

• Expose their genitals in a situation where they know it will likely shock, offend, or alarm others
• Engage in sexual contact in the presence of a third person under circumstances likely to cause shock, offense, or alarm
• Have sexual intercourse in a public place in the presence of a third person

Penalties include:

• First offense: Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail; fines up to $1,000)
• Second offense: Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail; fines up to $2,000)

Second-Degree Sexual Misconduct

Under §566.095 RSMo, second-degree sexual misconduct occurs when a person solicits or requests sexual conduct from another person knowing the request will likely shock, offend, or alarm them.

Penalty: Class C misdemeanor (up to 15 days in jail; fines up to $500)

Sexual Misconduct Involving a Child

Under §566.083 RSMo, a person commits this offense if they:

• Expose their genitals to a child under 15, knowing it is likely to shock, offend, or alarm, or for sexual arousal or gratification
• Coerce or persuade a child under 15 to expose their genitals for arousal or gratification
• Coerce or persuade a child under 15 to expose the breasts of a female child through electronic communication

Penalties include:

• First offense: Class E felony (up to 4 years in prison; fines up to $10,000)
• Subsequent offenses: Class D felony (up to 7 years in prison; fines up to $10,000)

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Vehicle Hijacking Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Vehicle Hijacking Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Vehicle Hijacking Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Passed in 2020, Missouri’s vehicle hijacking law imposes severe penalties on anyone convicted of forcibly taking control of a vehicle. The experienced Missouri criminal defense and theft lawyers at Combs Waterkotte understand the high stakes involved in these cases. With extensive resources and deep knowledge of Missouri law, we fight for dismissals, acquittals, charge reductions, and the protection of your future.

Laws Against Vehicle Hijacking in Missouri

While many states classify theft into separate crimes like fraud, auto theft, and larceny, Missouri uses a single comprehensive stealing statute to handle all theft-related offenses. Historically, this meant auto theft was handled under the same statute as shoplifting or embezzlement.

But vehicle hijacking is fundamentally different because it involves taking an occupied vehicle, which creates substantial danger to the driver and passengers. Recognizing this, Missouri passed a dedicated vehicle hijacking statute in 2020. This law blends elements of robbery and stealing to create a standalone felony offense with serious consequences.

What Is Vehicle Hijacking in Missouri?

Vehicle hijacking occurs when someone knowingly uses or threatens physical force to seize control or possession of a vehicle from another person.

The term “vehicle” includes almost all motorized, wheeled vehicles—including cars, ATVs, motorcycles, and trucks—except:

• Trains
• Motorized wheelchairs
• Electric or motorized bicycles

What Counts as Physical Force?

Missouri statutes don’t define “physical force,” so courts use its ordinary meaning. Physical force can include:

• Punching
• Kicking
• Pushing or pulling
• Shooting
• Stabbing

The law also includes threats of force. A person can be charged with vehicle hijacking even if they never physically touch the driver—as long as they make a credible threat, such as threatening to shoot unless the victim exits the vehicle.

Aggravating Circumstances for Vehicle Hijacking

Prosecutors may seek enhanced penalties if the alleged hijacker:

• Caused serious physical injury
• Carried a deadly weapon
• Used or threatened a dangerous instrument
• Displayed what appeared to be a weapon
• Took a vehicle with a child or “special victim” inside

Vehicle Hijacking and First-Degree Robbery in Missouri

Vehicle hijacking with aggravating circumstances closely parallels first-degree robbery. Under Missouri law, first-degree robbery involves forcibly stealing property while:

• Causing serious physical injury
• Being armed with a deadly weapon
• Using or threatening a dangerous instrument
• Displaying what appears to be a deadly weapon
• Stealing a controlled substance from a pharmacy

However, there is an important distinction: robbery requires proof that the force used was intended to overcome the victim’s resistance or coerce them into surrendering property. Vehicle hijacking does not require this specific element—making it easier for prosecutors to pursue a conviction.

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Stealing of a Motor Vehicle Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Stealing of a Motor Vehicle Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Stealing of a Motor Vehicle Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Missouri imposes harsh penalties on those who are convicted of stealing motor vehicles. You could face significant time in prison, fines that drain your finances, and the long-term consequences that come with having a criminal record. At Combs Waterkotte, our Missouri criminal defense and theft lawyers fight these charges aggressively to protect your future and your freedom.

Understanding Stealing of Motor Vehicle Charges in Missouri

In Missouri, stealing a motor vehicle is considered more serious than stealing other types of property. If you take a vehicle or catalytic converter without the owner’s permission — or by force — and intend to deprive the owner of it, the state can charge you with motor vehicle theft.

The potential charges include:

• Stealing a motor vehicle: Class D felony
• Stealing a catalytic converter: Class E felony
• Repeat offenders: Two prior theft convictions within 10 years can elevate the charge to a Class B felony

Tampering With a Motor Vehicle in Missouri

Tampering with a motor vehicle is a related but separate offense. Often referred to as “joyriding,” this charge involves knowingly possessing, receiving, selling, or operating a vehicle without the owner’s consent.

The key difference between tampering and stealing: tampering does not require proof that you intended to permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle.

• First-degree tampering (driver): Class D felony
• Second-degree tampering (passenger): Class A misdemeanor

Carjacking and Vehicle Theft in Missouri

Carjacking — sometimes called vehicle hijacking — involves using or threatening force to take control of another person’s vehicle. This offense carries extremely severe penalties.

Carjacking becomes a Class A felony when it involves:

• The use of a deadly weapon
• Serious injury to a victim or bystander
• The use or threat of a dangerous weapon
• Taking a vehicle with a child or special victim inside

All other forms of carjacking are generally charged as Class B felonies.

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Third Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Third Degree Domestic Assault Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Third Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Even a verbal argument or brief contact with a loved one can lead to life-changing criminal felony charges. A conviction for third degree domestic assault in Missouri could affect your job, your relationships, and your future. Combs Waterkotte has helped countless people in Missouri facing domestic violence accusations get charges reduced, dropped, or dismissed entirely. Our Missouri domestic violence attorneys provide fearless courtroom defense if your case goes to trial.

What Is Third Degree Domestic Assault in Missouri?

Under §565.074 RSMo, third degree domestic assault occurs when someone knowingly causes physical pain or illness to a “domestic victim,” or attempts to cause physical injury. Unlike more severe degrees of assault, no serious injury is required — even minor contact can lead to felony charges if the alleged victim qualifies as domestic.

Who Qualifies as a Domestic Victim?

• Current or former spouses
• People related by blood or marriage
• Current or former cohabitants (roommates, partners)
• Anyone in a romantic or intimate relationship (past or present)
• People who share a child, even if never lived together

How Third Degree Differs from Other Assault Charges

• Second degree: Involves actual physical injury, often with a weapon or reckless behavior
• Third degree: Focuses on pain, illness, or an attempt to harm a domestic victim — not necessarily injury
• Fourth degree: Often covers unwanted physical contact or minor threats — a misdemeanor

In summary: Third degree domestic assault is a lower-level felony, but the “domestic” classification raises the stakes. Prosecutors can pursue serious consequences even without visible injuries.

What Are the Penalties for Third Degree Domestic Assault in Missouri?

Third degree domestic assault is classified as a Class E felony in Missouri. A conviction can result in up to four years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. In some cases — especially with prior convictions — prosecutors may try to enhance it to a Class D felony.

Additional Consequences

• Restraining orders or loss of contact with family
• Permanent criminal record with a “domestic violence” tag
• Loss of firearm rights under federal law
• Difficulty finding or keeping employment
• Impact on child custody or divorce proceedings

In summary: Even if no one was seriously hurt, a third degree domestic assault conviction can change your life. Getting an experienced defense lawyer involved early is crucial.

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Third Degree Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Third Degree Assault Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Third Degree Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Being charged with third degree assault in Missouri may seem like a minor offense, but it’s not. A conviction can lead to jail time, a criminal record, and serious damage to your reputation, career, and family life. Combs Waterkotte‘s St. Louis assault defense and criminal defense lawyers know how to fight violent crime charges head-on and protect your future.

What Is Third Degree Assault in Missouri?

Under §565.054 RSMo, you commit third degree assault in Missouri if you knowingly cause physical injury to another person.

According to Missouri law:

• “Knowingly” means you were aware your actions were practically certain to cause harm.
• “Physical injury” includes pain, illness, or any visible bodily harm such as bruises, swelling, cuts, or soreness.

In most cases, third degree assault is charged after a fight, argument, or altercation where someone ends up with even a minor injury. It doesn’t require serious harm or a weapon — only that you knowingly caused pain or injury.

In summary: Third degree assault is a felony-level charge that applies when someone is hurt and prosecutors believe you knew your actions would cause that harm. The injury may be minor, but the consequences are not.

How Is Third Degree Assault Different From Second or Fourth Degree?

Second degree assault under §565.052 involves serious injuries or reckless conduct with weapons and is charged as a more severe felony.

Fourth degree assault under §565.056 includes threats, minor contact, or attempted harm without injury and is usually a misdemeanor.

Third degree assault is in the middle: a felony charge based on knowingly causing even minor pain or injury — no weapon or serious harm required.

What Are the Penalties for Third Degree Assault in Missouri?

Can you go to jail for third degree assault in Missouri? Yes. Third degree assault is a Class E felony, which carries:

• Up to 4 years in prison
• Fines up to $10,000

Even if you avoid prison, a felony conviction can still mean probation, court-ordered treatment, a permanent criminal record, and serious personal and professional consequences.

Additional Consequences of a Third Degree Assault Conviction

• A permanent felony record that shows up on background checks
• Loss of firearm rights under state and federal law
• Difficulty securing employment, housing, or professional licenses
• Family court issues, including custody or visitation restrictions
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

In summary: A single argument or mistake can result in a felony record, even if you don’t spend time in jail. Third degree assault charges will not simply disappear — the consequences can follow you for life.

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