Defending Freedom

Defending Freedom

By Combs WaterkotteTrue Crime
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Defending Freedom episodes

  • Speeding Ticket Lawyer in St. Louis - Traffic Ticket Attorneys Serving ALL Missouri

    Speeding Ticket Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    Got a speeding ticket in Missouri? Don’t just pay the fine and hope for the best. At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced St. Louis traffic ticket lawyers fight to protect your driving record, reduce or eliminate points, and help you avoid higher insurance premiums. We handle traffic tickets across the entire state of Missouri every day.

    Speeding Ticket Lawyer in St. Louis

    #traffic #speedingticket #traffictickets #trafficticket #lawyer #attorney #stlouis #missouri

    What To Do After a Speeding Ticket in Missouri

    You may feel stuck — but you have options. Paying a ticket outright can add points to your license and increase your car insurance rates. Here’s what you should do instead:

    • Read the ticket: Check details like speed, location, and court date.
    • Understand the impact: Points on your license = higher costs down the road.
    • Gather evidence: Photos, dashcam footage, and witness statements may help.
    • Call a lawyer: We can often resolve your ticket without you ever appearing in court.
    Why Hire a Missouri Speeding Ticket Lawyer?

    Our traffic lawyers know how local courts operate and negotiate for outcomes like:

    • Reduced fines
    • No points on your license
    • Amended violations to non-moving infractions
    • Dismissals in certain cases

    We handle tickets just like yours — and worse — every day.

    Common Missouri Traffic Violations We Handle
    • Speeding and work zone violations
    • Failure to stop or signal
    • Driving without insurance or valid registration
    • Leaving the scene of an accident
    • Driving while suspended or revoked
    • Illegal U-turns, rolling stops, reckless driving
    Related Traffic Defense Services
    • Traffic Ticket Lawyer in Missouri
    • Missouri Traffic Laws Lawyer
    • No Insurance Ticket Defense
    • Leaving the Scene of an Accident
    Contact a Speeding Ticket Lawyer in St. Louis Today

    Don't pay that ticket just yet. Protect your record and avoid long-term consequences by calling Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or contacting us online for a free consultation.

    Video produced by Hexxen — Legal Web Design, SEO & Digital Marketing

    7 min
  • Boating While Intoxicated Attorney St. Louis - BWI Lawyers Serving ALL of Missouri

    Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    Missouri has some of the most beautiful waterways in the country — and also some of the strictest laws when it comes to boating under the influence. At Combs Waterkotte, we fight for those facing BWI charges and help you avoid jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Whether your case involves a lake, river, or personal watercraft, we’re the BWI defense team you can trust.

    Boating While Intoxicated Lawyer in Missouri

    #bwi #dwi #dui #lawyer #attorney #defense #missouri #stlouis #kansascity

    What Is Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) in Missouri?

    According to Missouri Revised Statute § 577.013, it is illegal to operate a motorized vessel or sailboat with a BAC of .08% or higher. The law applies to:

    • Boats and yachts
    • Sailboats and motorboats
    • Jet skis, wave runners, surfboards

    It does not apply to non-motorized crafts like kayaks, canoes, or rowboats.

    Consequences of a BWI Charge in Missouri

    BWI convictions can result in:

    • Fines and jail time
    • Suspension of boating privileges
    • Criminal record
    • Mandatory substance abuse classes

    In severe or repeat cases, charges may escalate to a felony, especially if there is an accident, injury, or prior DWI/BWI offenses.

    Why Choose Combs Waterkotte?
    • Missouri’s top-rated BWI and DWI defense firm
    • Handled over 10,000 criminal and traffic cases
    • Offices in both St. Louis and Kansas City
    • More than 360 five-star reviews

    Our team combines decades of courtroom experience with a personalized approach that puts your freedom first.

    More DWI Defense Services
    • DWI/DUI Lawyer in Missouri
    • First Offense DWI
    • Second Offense DWI
    • DWI Accidents
    • CDL DWI
    • Felony DWI
    • Hit and Run DWI
    • Aggravated DWI
    Contact a Missouri BWI Lawyer Today

    Don’t let a BWI conviction ruin your summer — or your future. Contact Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation.

    Video produced by Hexxen — Legal Web Design, SEO & Digital Marketing

    11 min
  • Arson Defense Lawyer St. Louis - Arson Attorneys Serving ALL of Missouri

    Arson Defense Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    Being charged with arson in Missouri is a serious offense that can lead to harsh penalties and long-term consequences. Whether you’ve been accused of starting a fire intentionally or recklessly, you need a proven defense team that understands Missouri’s arson laws and can fight for your future. At Combs Waterkotte, we provide experienced, aggressive criminal defense for clients facing arson charges across the state.

    Arson Defense Lawyer in Missouri

    #arson #criminaldefense #lawyer #attorney #missouri #stlouis #kansascity

    Missouri Arson Charges Explained

    Missouri recognizes multiple forms of arson, depending on intent, location, and damage. These include:

    • First-Degree Arson – Starting a fire or causing an explosion that knowingly risks serious physical injury or death (Class A or B felony)
    • Second-Degree Arson – Intentionally damaging a building or inhabitable structure by fire or explosion (Class C felony)
    • Third-Degree Arson – Damaging property by fire or explosion with criminal intent (Class A misdemeanor or felony if prior convictions)
    • Knowingly Burning or Exploding – Involves fire damage to property of value
    • Recklessly or Negligently Burning – Causing fire damage without lawful justification
    What Counts as an "Inhabitable Structure" in Missouri?

    Missouri arson statutes cover more than just houses. Any place where people work, assemble, or sleep can be considered inhabitable — including:

    • Vacant homes or apartments
    • Vehicles, RVs, and vessels
    • Office buildings or community centers

    Even if no one lives there currently, prosecutors may still file arson charges.

    Why Choose Combs Waterkotte for Arson Defense?
    • Deep knowledge of Missouri arson statutes and criminal procedures
    • Strategic investigation and evidence analysis
    • Tailored defense built around your specific charges
    • Over 10,000 criminal cases handled statewide
    Related Legal Services
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer
    • Domestic Violence Lawyer
    • Drug Charges Lawyer
    • Gun Charges Lawyer
    • Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
    • Orders of Protection Defense
    Schedule a Free Consultation Today

    If you’re facing arson charges in Missouri, your next move matters. Contact our office now at (314) 900-HELP or request a free case review online.

    Video powered by Hexxen — Legal Web Design, SEO & Digital Marketing

    16 min
  • Unlawful Use of a Weapon Lawyer St. Louis - Attorneys Serving ALL Missouri

    Unlawful Use of a Weapon Defense Lawyers Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    Facing charges for unlawful use of a weapon in Missouri is a serious matter. Whether it involves firing a weapon from a vehicle, displaying a firearm in a threatening way, or carrying a gun while intoxicated, these charges can result in felony convictions and years in prison. At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced defense team provides aggressive legal representation to protect your rights and future.

    Unlawful Use of a Weapon Lawyer Missouri

    #weaponscharges #gunlawyer #criminaldefense #attorney #missouri #stlouis #kansascity

    What Constitutes Unlawful Use of a Weapon in Missouri?

    Missouri’s unlawful use of a weapon statute (RSMo §571.030) covers a wide range of actions, including:

    • Discharging a weapon into a home, building, or vehicle
    • Possessing a firearm while intoxicated
    • Displaying a weapon in a threatening manner
    • Shooting from a motor vehicle
    • Possessing a loaded firearm in a school or courthouse
    Penalties for Unlawful Use of a Weapon in Missouri Violation Penalty Spring gun, shooting at vehicle/house, threatening display Class E felony Firearm in restricted areas, near schools or highways Class B misdemeanor Firearm while intoxicated (unloaded/loaded) Class A misdemeanor / Class E felony Shooting from vehicle or at person/property Class B felony / Class A felony if injury or death occurs Why Choose Combs Waterkotte?
    • Proven track record in felony weapons defense
    • Custom strategies for complex firearm-related charges
    • Over 10,000 criminal cases handled across Missouri
    • Offices in St. Louis and Kansas City for statewide support
    Related Legal Services
    • Gun Charges Defense
    • Violent Crimes Defense
    Get the Legal Defense You Deserve

    A conviction for unlawful use of a weapon can have long-lasting consequences. Don’t leave your future to chance. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation with a St. Louis weapon charge lawyer today.

    Video produced by Hexxen

    12 min
  • Fentanyl Trafficking Lawyer St Louis - Drug Trafficking Attorneys Serving ALL Missouri

    Fentanyl Trafficking Defense Lawyers Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    Facing fentanyl trafficking charges in Missouri is an incredibly serious matter. Missouri law comes down hard on fentanyl-related crimes, with mandatory minimums and potentially life-changing penalties. At Combs Waterkotte, our criminal defense team has defended more than 10,000 cases — and we’re ready to help you protect your rights, freedom, and future.

    Fentanyl Trafficking Lawyer in Missouri

    #drug #defenseattorney #lawyer #attorney #fentanyl #missouri #stlouis

    Why Fentanyl Charges Are Treated So Harshly

    Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid up to 100x more potent than morphine. With overdose deaths rising, Missouri prosecutors are under pressure to deliver harsh sentences — even in cases involving minimal quantities. Law enforcement also frequently collaborates with federal agencies to enhance trafficking prosecutions.

    What Constitutes Fentanyl Trafficking in Missouri?
    • Possession of fentanyl in large quantities
    • Intent to distribute or manufacture
    • Possession of paraphernalia, packaging, or cash
    • Cross-border or organized operation involvement
    Penalties for Fentanyl Trafficking in Missouri
    • Class B Felony – 10–20 mg: 5 to 15 years mandatory minimum sentence
    • Class A Felony – Over 20 mg: 10 years to life without parole

    Recent proposals seek to reduce the threshold to 14 mg, making defense even more critical in these cases.

    Get Aggressive Legal Defense from Combs Waterkotte

    We understand that one mistake, one misunderstanding, or even wrongful arrest shouldn’t define your life. Our fentanyl trafficking defense lawyers fight hard to get charges reduced or dismissed, protect your record, and keep you out of prison.

    Related Drug Defense Resources
    • Drug Charges & Possession Defense
    • Meth Trafficking Lawyer
    • Missouri Drug Possession Lawyer
    • Marijuana Charges Lawyer
    Don’t Wait — Call Now

    Our attorneys are standing by to help you navigate this difficult time. Call (314) 900-HELP or request your free, confidential consultation today.

    Video produced by Hexxen

    13 min
  • Orders of Protection Defense Lawyer St. Louis - Ex Parte Attorneys Serving ALL Missouri

    Orders of Protection Defense Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    Have you been served with an Order of Protection in Missouri? Whether it’s an ex parte or full protection order, your freedom, relationships, and reputation may be on the line. At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced criminal defense attorneys understand both sides of these complex cases and fight to protect your rights.

    Orders of Protection Lawyer in Missouri

    #exparte #restrainingorder #orderofprotection #lawyer #attorney #missouri #stlouis #kansascity #defenseattorney

    What Is an Order of Protection in Missouri?

    Orders of Protection — also known as restraining orders — are court-issued documents designed to restrict contact between two parties, often arising from allegations of domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. These are serious legal matters and can have both immediate and long-term consequences.

    Types of Orders of Protection
    • Ex Parte Order of Protection: Temporary and issued without a hearing
    • Full Order of Protection: Only granted after a court hearing where both sides may present evidence

    Violating either order can result in criminal charges, jail time, and permanent records. If you’ve been served, it’s critical to act fast and speak to a lawyer.

    Common Reasons for Restraining Orders in Missouri
    • Domestic violence or emotional abuse
    • Harassment or stalking
    • Sexual assault accusations
    • Destruction of property or marital disputes
    You Need a Strong Defense

    At Combs Waterkotte, our St. Louis orders of protection attorneys handle cases like yours daily. We’ll guide you through the legal process, help you challenge the order if possible, and represent you at every hearing.

    Related FAQs & Resources
    • What to Do If You've Been Served
    • Can I Challenge an Order of Protection?
    • What Happens If I Violate an Order?
    • How Long Does It Last?
    Watch Related Videos
    • What Happens If I Violate an Order of Protection in Missouri?
    • What to Do After Being Served a Restraining Order
    Call Combs Waterkotte Today

    If you’ve been accused, don’t wait. Call (314) 900-HELP or visit our website for a confidential consultation.

    Video produced by Hexxen

    7 min
  • Drivers License Reinstatement Lawyer St. Louis - License Attorneys Serving ALL Missouri

    Drivers License Reinstatement Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    Has your Missouri driver’s license been suspended or revoked? Losing your license doesn’t just affect your ability to drive — it impacts your job, your independence, and your daily routine. At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced license reinstatement lawyers fight every day to help Missourians like you get back behind the wheel legally and quickly.

    Reinstating Your License in Missouri

    #license #reinstatement #lawyer #attorney #missouri #stlouis #kansascity

    About Driver’s License Reinstatement in Missouri

    Missouri law lays out strict procedures for reinstating your license after a suspension or revocation. Whether it was caused by a DWI, traffic violation, missed court appearance, or failure to pay fines, we’re here to walk you through each requirement and take the legal burden off your shoulders.

    Common Reasons for Suspension or Revocation
    • DUI/DWI offenses
    • Accumulating too many points on your license
    • Failure to appear in court or pay traffic fines
    • Driving without insurance
    • Child support non-compliance
    • Underage drinking or drug-related violations
    What Does Reinstatement Involve?

    Reinstating your Missouri driver’s license may require several of the following:

    • Serving your full suspension/revocation period
    • Completing SATOP (Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program)
    • Filing proof of SR-22 insurance (in DWI cases)
    • Paying reinstatement fees and fines
    • Providing documentation to the Department of Revenue
    • Taking and passing written or driving exams (in some cases)
    Why Hire Combs Waterkotte?
    • Decades of experience in Missouri traffic and DWI law
    • Proven results in license reinstatement cases across the state
    • Clear communication and full guidance through every step
    • Offices in both St. Louis and Kansas City, serving all of Missouri
    Take the First Step Toward Getting Your License Back

    If your license was suspended or revoked, don’t go it alone. Call (314) 900-HELP today for a free consultation or visit us online to connect with a Missouri driver's license reinstatement attorney.

    Explore Related Practice Areas:
    • DWI/DUI Lawyer in Missouri
    • DWI First Offense Lawyer
    • DWI Second Offense Lawyer

    Video produced by Hexxen

    12 min
  • Methamphetamine Drug Charges Lawyer in St. Louis, Missouri - Drug Attorneys Serving ALL Missouri

    Methamphetamine Drug Charges Lawyers Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    If you or someone you care about is facing methamphetamine charges in Missouri, you already know what's at stake — your freedom, your future, and your record. At Combs Waterkotte, we don’t judge. We defend. Our experienced Missouri meth charges attorneys have helped countless individuals across the state take on the toughest cases — and win.

    Methamphetamine Charges Lawyer in Missouri

    #drug #lawyer #attorney #missouri #stlouis #kansascity

    Methamphetamine Laws in Missouri

    Missouri prosecutors aggressively pursue meth charges under some of the country’s harshest statutes. Whether you’re charged with possession, trafficking, or manufacturing, you need legal counsel that knows how to navigate complex drug cases at both the state and federal level.

    Common Methamphetamine Charges We Handle
    • Possession of Meth (RSMo §579.015): Class D felony — higher penalties for larger quantities or prior convictions.
    • Manufacturing Meth (RSMo §579.055): Class B or C felony — includes chemical synthesis and preparation.
    • Distribution or Sale (RSMo §579.020): Charges escalate based on quantity and location (e.g., near schools).
    • Drug Trafficking (RSMo §579.065, §579.068): Severe mandatory minimums for large-scale operations.
    • Possession of Precursor Chemicals (RSMo §579.110): Felony if intent to manufacture can be proven.
    • Child Endangerment (RSMo §568.045): Additional charges if meth activity occurs around minors.
    • Drug Paraphernalia (RSMo §579.074): Extra penalties for possession of meth-related equipment.
    Why Choose Combs Waterkotte?
    • 50+ years of combined drug crime defense experience
    • Thousands of successful outcomes across Missouri
    • Proven results in meth distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking cases
    • Fierce courtroom advocates with personalized case strategies
    Get Legal Help Now — Before It’s Too Late

    Meth charges can wreck your life if you don't act fast. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact Combs Waterkotte online for a free, confidential consultation with a trusted Missouri meth charges lawyer today.

    Explore Related Services:
    • Drug Distribution Lawyer Missouri
    • Drug Manufacturing Lawyer Missouri
    • Drug Paraphernalia Lawyer Missouri
    • Drug Trafficking Lawyer Missouri
    • Drugs in Vehicle Lawyer Missouri

    Video produced by Hexxen

    11 min
  • Child Abuse, Neglect and Abandonment Lawyer in St. Louis, Missouri

    Child Abuse, Neglect, and Abandonment Lawyers Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    Being accused of child abuse, neglect, or abandonment in Missouri is a devastating experience. These allegations carry not only the threat of serious criminal penalties, but also the possibility of losing custody of your own child. At Combs Waterkotte, we provide strong, nonjudgmental legal defense for parents and caregivers facing these emotionally charged cases.

    Child Abuse, Neglect, and Abandonment Lawyer in Missouri

    #lawyer #attorney #missouri #stlouis #kansascity #defenseattorney

    Understanding Child Abuse & Neglect Laws in Missouri

    Missouri law is strict when it comes to child protection. Charges may be filed against individuals accused of:

    • Inflicting physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
    • Failing to provide proper care, supervision, or medical attention
    • Leaving a child in dangerous or unsupervised conditions
    • Abandoning a child without regard for their well-being
    Mandatory Reporting & Legal Ramifications

    Missouri law (since 2004) requires mandatory reporters — such as doctors, teachers, clergy, and anyone responsible for a child’s care — to report suspected abuse or neglect to the Missouri Department of Social Services. Failing to report, or knowingly filing a false report, is a class A misdemeanor.

    Your Rights and Defense Options
    • Presumption of Innocence: You are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
    • Complete Case Investigation: We examine DSS reports, medical evidence, witness statements, and police reports.
    • Tailored Legal Strategy: We address all criminal and family law aspects, including potential DSS involvement and custody issues.
    • Nonjudgmental Representation: We fight fiercely to protect your freedom, reputation, and parental rights.
    Why Choose Combs Waterkotte?
    • 50+ years of combined criminal defense experience
    • Extensive experience defending against child abuse and neglect charges in Missouri courts
    • Aggressive representation with compassionate client support
    • Proven record of securing dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable outcomes
    Get Experienced Help Now

    Whether you are under investigation by DSS or already facing formal charges, it’s vital to get legal help fast. Contact Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or visit us online for a free, confidential consultation.

    Video produced by Hexxen

    10 min
  • Kidnapping Defense Lawyer St. Louis - Attorneys Serving ALL of Missouri

    Kidnapping Defense Lawyers Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

    Kidnapping is one of the most serious criminal charges you can face in Missouri. If you or someone you love has been accused or charged, it’s critical to have an experienced defense team on your side. The criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte bring decades of trial experience and a reputation for strategic, aggressive representation throughout Missouri.

    Kidnapping Lawyer in Missouri

    #kidnapping #lawyer #attorney #defense #missouri #stlouis #kansascity

    Understanding Kidnapping Charges in Missouri

    Missouri kidnapping laws are strict and heavily prosecuted. Charges are classified by degree:

    • First-Degree Kidnapping (RSMo §565.110): Unlawfully removing someone for ransom, as a hostage, or to aid a felony. Class A felony — 10 to 30 years in prison.
    • Second-Degree Kidnapping: Knowingly restraining someone unlawfully and putting them at serious physical risk. Class D felony — up to 7 years in prison.
    • Third-Degree Kidnapping: Knowingly restraining someone without their consent. Usually a Class A misdemeanor, but upgraded to Class E felony if crossing state lines.
    Special Circumstances Under Missouri Law
    • Child Kidnapping (Non-Relative): Class A felony.
    • Parental Kidnapping (RSMo §565.153): Class E felony that can be upgraded depending on duration and intent.
    • Custody and Visitation Violations: Often overlap with child abduction and parental interference statutes.
    Why Choose Combs Waterkotte for Your Kidnapping Defense?
    • Deep knowledge of Missouri kidnapping and abduction statutes
    • More than 50 years of combined legal experience
    • Tailored legal defense strategies for each case
    • In-house investigative resources to uncover favorable evidence
    Your Future Is on the Line — Let Us Help

    Kidnapping charges can carry long prison sentences, a permanent criminal record, and devastating personal consequences. Our St. Louis criminal defense attorneys fight back with proven strategies and relentless advocacy, whether you’ve been falsely accused or made a mistake under pressure.

    Call (314) 900-HELP or visit us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

    Video produced by Hexxen

    9 min

About Defending Freedom

From the publisher's feed

Defending Freedom is a podcast with Missouri attorneys Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte that dives into the world of criminal defense, justice, and the critical issues affecting individual rights.…