Defending Freedom

Federal RICO and Racketeering Defense Lawyers Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

If you’re facing federal racketeering charges under the RICO Act, the stakes couldn’t be higher. These charges are among the most severe in the U.S. criminal justice system — and federal prosecutors will come prepared with massive investigative resources. Combs Waterkotte is the law firm Missouri residents turn to when their freedom and future are on the line.

Federal Racketeering / RICO Charges Lawyer – Missouri

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What Is a RICO Charge?

The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) allows the federal government to charge individuals for participating in a pattern of criminal activity tied to an “enterprise.” You don’t have to personally commit every crime to be indicted — prosecutors often use conspiracy charges to connect individuals to the larger organization’s actions.

Examples of Racketeering Acts

• Wire and mail fraud
• Drug trafficking
• Bribery and public corruption
• Money laundering
• Extortion or coercion
• Acts of violence supporting criminal enterprises

What Must Prosecutors Prove in a RICO Case?

To convict under RICO, federal prosecutors must show:

• A criminal "enterprise" existed
• You were associated with or employed by the enterprise
• You committed or conspired to commit at least two related criminal acts within 10 years

RICO Penalties in Missouri Federal Courts

• Federal prison sentences up to 20 years per count (or more)
• Millions in fines and asset forfeiture
• Mandatory restitution to alleged victims
• Permanent criminal record and career-ending damage

Combs Waterkotte Defends Clients Across Both Missouri Federal Districts

We serve clients in both the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri, including:

• Eastern District: St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson County, Franklin County, Cape Girardeau
• Western District: Kansas City, Columbia, Jefferson City, Springfield, St. Joseph

Why Choose Combs Waterkotte?

• Over 50 years of combined federal criminal defense experience
• Dedicated team that handles nothing but criminal and traffic defense
• Personalized strategy — no cookie-cutter defenses
• Relentless courtroom advocacy from indictment through trial

Contact a Missouri Federal RICO Lawyer Today

If you’re under investigation or already charged with federal RICO or racketeering, don’t wait. Contact the experienced legal team at Combs Waterkotte immediately to begin building your defense.

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

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

If you’ve been arrested for drug possession, trafficking, or related charges in Missouri, the consequences can be life-altering. A conviction may lead to prison time, expensive fines, a permanent criminal record, and damage to your future employment and housing opportunities. You need immediate and aggressive legal help. Combs Waterkotte is Missouri’s trusted criminal defense firm, known for fighting drug charges relentlessly and with compassion.

Drug Charges and Possession Lawyer Missouri

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Why Choose Combs Waterkotte for Drug Charges in Missouri?

• Deep knowledge of Missouri drug laws and court systems
• Over 10,000 cases handled, including major felonies
• Personalized, strategic defense tailored to your situation
• Access to alternative sentencing, treatment programs, and dismissal strategies

Types of Drug Charges We Defend

• Drug Paraphernalia (§579.040)
• Drug Trafficking (§579.065, §579.068)
• Drugs in Vehicle
• DWI With Marijuana
• Federal Drug Charges
• Federal Drug Trafficking

Understanding Missouri Drug Sentencing

Your penalties depend on the drug’s schedule, the amount, and prior convictions:

• Felonies: Up to 30 years in prison and $10,000 in fines
• Misdemeanors: Up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000

Common Drug Schedules in Missouri

• Schedule I: Heroin, LSD, MDMA — no medical use, high abuse potential
• Schedule II: Cocaine, morphine, oxycodone — restricted medical use
• Schedule III-V: Prescription medications — moderate to low abuse potential

We Also Handle Specific Drug Allegations Like:

• Heroin Charges
• Cocaine Trafficking
• Crack Trafficking

Get the Legal Defense You Deserve

If you or a loved one are facing any kind of drug charge in Missouri, don’t delay. Call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or visit us online for a free and confidential case evaluation.

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Rape and Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

Sex crime accusations are among the most serious and damaging legal challenges anyone can face. Your freedom, your reputation, and your future are all at stake. At Combs Waterkotte, we understand the gravity of the charges and the overwhelming pressure it puts on you and your loved ones. We are here to defend your rights aggressively, respectfully, and without judgment.

Rape and Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer Missouri

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Understanding Missouri Rape and Sexual Assault Charges

Missouri law recognizes multiple degrees of rape and sexual assault offenses, each with unique legal standards and penalties. Here’s a breakdown of what you might be facing:

• First-Degree Rape (§566.030): Involves sexual intercourse by force, threat, or with a victim incapable of giving consent.
• Second-Degree Rape (§566.031): Involves sexual intercourse when the accused knows the victim did not or could not consent. This is a Class D felony punishable by up to 7 years in prison.

Missouri law defines “sexual intercourse” as any degree of penetration, and consent can be a complex, disputed issue in court—especially since the state does not have a clear statutory definition of consent.

Your Rights and Defense Strategies

Accusations alone can destroy reputations. That’s why you need an experienced criminal defense team that:

• Takes a nonjudgmental, compassionate approach to your defense
• Analyzes the evidence thoroughly to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
• Explores all issues surrounding consent and intent
• Builds a personalized strategy focused on protecting your freedom

Combs Waterkotte has defended countless individuals across Missouri facing similar accusations. We treat every case with discretion, urgency, and unwavering commitment to your presumption of innocence.

Related Sex Crime Defense Services

• Sex Crimes Lawyer in St. Louis
• Sexual Misconduct Lawyer
• Sex Offender Registry Violations
• Sexual Abuse Lawyer
• Statutory Sodomy Defense Lawyer
• Statutory Sex Crimes Lawyer
• Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer

Contact Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re under investigation or have been arrested for rape or sexual assault in Missouri, you need a defense team that’s experienced, strategic, and ready to fight for you from day one. Call (314) 900-HELP for a free and completely confidential consultation with one of our top-rated criminal defense attorneys.

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Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

Being charged with vehicular manslaughter after a fatal crash is one of the most devastating experiences a person can face. If you or a loved one has been arrested following a fatal car accident in Missouri, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to tell your side of the story and protect your future.

Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer

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What Is Vehicular Manslaughter in Missouri?

Vehicular manslaughter, also known as involuntary manslaughter, occurs when someone causes another person’s death due to criminal negligence while operating a motor vehicle. Unlike a tragic accident where no charges are filed, prosecutors will pursue this charge if they believe your actions behind the wheel were reckless or grossly negligent.

According to Missouri law, you could face felony charges if the state proves you:

• Had a duty of care to others on the road
• Breached that duty through negligent behavior (e.g., speeding, distracted driving, intoxication)
• Caused the accident directly
• The crash resulted in someone’s death

Depending on the circumstances, penalties may include years in prison, large fines, driver’s license suspension, and a felony criminal record that can follow you for life.

Why Choose Combs Waterkotte?

At Combs Waterkotte, our St. Louis vehicular manslaughter lawyers have more than 50 years of combined experience in high-stakes criminal defense. We take a detailed, personalized approach to every case, gathering evidence, working with accident reconstruction experts, and building a powerful defense strategy to help reduce or dismiss your charges.

Whether the allegation involves distracted driving, DWI, speeding, or reckless behavior, our team fights for your rights and ensures that the facts—not assumptions—drive your case outcome.

Additional Missouri Criminal Defense Resources

• Hit and Run DWI Lawyer
• Aggravated Assault Lawyer
• Aggravated DWI Lawyer
• Assault and Battery Lawyer

Free Consultation Available

If you or someone close to you has been accused of vehicular manslaughter in Missouri, don’t wait. Call (314) 900-HELP now to speak confidentially with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys. We offer free consultations and flexible payment plans to help ease the burden during this difficult time.

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First Degree Domestic Assault Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

Domestic situations can quickly escalate—often leaving both parties feeling hurt and misunderstood. If you've been accused of first-degree domestic assault in Missouri, your freedom, reputation, and future are at risk. You need strong legal representation from attorneys who understand how high the stakes are and will fight relentlessly for you.

First-Degree Domestic Assault Lawyer

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Understanding First-Degree Domestic Assault in Missouri

Missouri classifies domestic assault into four degrees, with first-degree domestic assault being the most serious. This charge typically applies when the accused attempts to kill or knowingly causes or attempts to cause serious physical injury to a domestic victim.

According to Missouri law, a domestic victim can include:

• Current or former spouses
• Individuals related by blood or marriage
• People who live or have lived together
• Partners in a romantic or intimate relationship
• Parents of a child, regardless of marital status

First-degree domestic assault is often charged as a Class B felony—and as a Class A felony if serious physical injury is inflicted. These cases carry potential penalties of 5 to 30 years or life imprisonment.

Why Choose Combs Waterkotte?

At Combs Waterkotte, our seasoned St. Louis criminal defense lawyers bring over 50 years of combined experience to the table. We take an individualized approach to every case and:

• Thoroughly examine police reports, witness statements, and alleged injuries
• Explore potential self-defense claims or conflicting accounts
• Negotiate with prosecutors and fight aggressively at trial
• Ensure your rights are protected throughout the process

Speak With a First-Degree Domestic Assault Lawyer Today

If you’re facing charges, don’t wait. Contact our office at (314) 900-HELP today for a free, confidential case evaluation. We’re available 24/7 and offer flexible payment options to help make quality defense accessible.

Additional Resources

• Domestic Violence Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyers With Payment Plans
• What to Do if You’re Arrested for Assault
• How Prior Convictions Impact Assault Charges

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Involuntary Manslaughter Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri. If you or someone you know has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in St. Louis, MO, you are probably well aware that these are serious charges under Missouri law. Prosecutors aggressively seek convictions in these cases and, since these are felony charges, the stakes are very high. Involuntary Manslaughter Lawyer:https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/involuntary-manslaughter-lawyer-st-louis-mo/#criminaldefense #lawyer #attorney #missouri #stlouis #kansascity Combs Waterkotte takes a personalized approach to all our St. Louis, MO involuntary manslaughter cases. We review every single fact, every piece of evidence, and every detail related to your case in order to devise a legal defense tailor-made to produce the best possible outcome to your case.Involuntary Manslaughter Laws in Missouri:Missouri law defines involuntary manslaughter as "recklessly causing" or "acting with criminal negligence to cause" the death of another person. The most common cause of involuntary manslaughter is when a fatality occurs as a result of a car accident. Therefore, it is not uncommon to hear "vehicular manslaughter" used interchangeably with "involuntary manslaughter" in many reports.Criminal Defense Lawyer:https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyer-st-louis-mo/Criminal Lawyers With Payment Plans in St. Louis. Aggressive, Affordable Criminal Defense.https://www.combswaterkotte.com/criminal-lawyers-with-payment-plans-st-louis/Murder and Homicide Lawyer:https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/murder-and-homicide-lawyer-st-louis-mo/Aggravated DWI Lawyer in St. Louishttps://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/dwi-dui-lawyer-st-louis-mo/aggravated-dwi/Video produced by Hexxen: https://hexxen.com/industries/legal-industry/

Hit and Run DWI Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

Getting into a car accident is never easy—but getting into one while under the influence can turn your life upside down. If that incident also involves leaving the scene, you may be facing hit and run DWI charges, which carry severe legal consequences under Missouri law.

Hit and Run DWI Lawyer in St. Louis

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Understanding Hit and Run DWI Charges in Missouri

Unfortunately, DWI-related accidents that escalate into hit and run incidents are not uncommon. Fear, intoxication, and confusion can drive otherwise rational individuals to leave the scene—often making the legal consequences worse.

In Missouri, it is a criminal offense to:

• Operate a motor vehicle while intoxicated
• Cause an accident while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Fail to stop and provide information or render aid at the scene of the crash

Even if no one was injured, fleeing the scene while intoxicated can result in felony charges, license revocation, jail time, and large fines.

Why You Need a DWI Defense Attorney Right Away

If you or a loved one is charged with a hit and run DWI offense, Combs Waterkotte is ready to defend your future. Our legal team has helped thousands of Missouri residents successfully navigate complex DWI and criminal charges.

When you hire us, you get:

• A tailored defense strategy for your unique case
• Direct access to your attorney, not just paralegals
• Decades of trial and negotiation experience
• Relentless advocacy to pursue reduced or dismissed charges

Common Consequences of a Hit and Run DWI in Missouri

• Felony conviction on your permanent record
• Revocation of your driver’s license
• Mandatory alcohol treatment programs
• Jail or prison time, depending on prior offenses and injuries
• Increased insurance rates or loss of coverage

Start Your Defense Today

If you’ve been charged with a DWI and hit and run in Missouri, you cannot afford to face the court system alone. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP to schedule a free, confidential consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys.

Additional DWI Services

• DWI/DUI Lawyer in St. Louis
• DWI First Offense
• DWI Second Offense
• DWI Accidents
• CDL DWI
• Felony DWI
• Aggravated DWI

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DWI With Drugs/Weed Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

While most people think of alcohol when they hear “DWI,” Missouri law makes it equally illegal to drive under the influence of drugs—whether those are illegal substances like marijuana or cocaine, or prescription medications that impair your ability to drive safely.

DWI With Drugs Lawyer in St. Louis

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DWI Doesn’t Just Mean Alcohol

If you’re pulled over in Missouri and law enforcement believes you’re impaired by any substance—whether legal or illegal—you can be arrested and charged with DWI. That includes:

• Marijuana (even if legally prescribed or recreationally legal elsewhere)
• Cocaine, methamphetamine, or other illicit drugs
• Prescription medications that impair cognition or motor skills
• Over-the-counter drugs that cause drowsiness or disorientation

Even if a drug is lawfully prescribed to you, if it affects your ability to drive, you can still be charged with DWI.

Facing Drug Charges Alongside Your DWI?

DWI with drugs charges often come bundled with additional offenses, such as:

• Drug possession
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Open container or transportation of controlled substances

Combs Waterkotte understands how to challenge not only the DWI charges but any related criminal offenses, ensuring the most comprehensive defense possible.

How Our St. Louis DWI Drug Lawyers Can Help

With more than 40 years of experience and over 10,000 successful criminal defense cases, our legal team brings the strategy, precision, and commitment you need to protect your future. We handle every aspect of your case with care and fight to:

• Challenge the legitimacy of the traffic stop
• Contest drug recognition expert (DRE) testimony
• Dispute field sobriety and chemical test results
• Seek reduced or dismissed charges where possible

Consequences of a DWI With Drugs Conviction in Missouri

• Jail time, even for a first offense
• License suspension or revocation
• Mandatory substance abuse treatment programs
• Hefty fines and court fees
• Permanent criminal record

You don’t have to go through this alone. Contact a St. Louis DWI lawyer today at (314) 900-HELP to start building your defense.

Related DWI Services We Offer

• General DWI/DUI Defense
• First-Time DWI
• Second-Offense DWI
• DWI Accidents
• CDL DWI
• Felony DWI
• Hit and Run DWI
• Aggravated DWI

Contact a DWI With Drugs Lawyer in St. Louis Now

Don’t wait—Missouri prosecutors aggressively pursue DWI drug-related charges. Contact Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

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DWI Serious Injury Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

A DWI charge in Missouri is already a serious matter—but when someone is injured as a result, the stakes rise dramatically. If you are facing DWI with serious injury charges, you could be looking at years behind bars, thousands in fines, and life-altering consequences.

DWI Serious Injury Lawyer in St. Louis

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What Is Considered a Serious Injury in a Missouri DWI Case?

In Missouri, a DWI becomes far more severe when the incident results in a “serious physical injury.” This can include:

• Broken bones
• Internal bleeding or damage to vital organs
• Disfigurement
• Long-term physical impairment

Causing serious injury while intoxicated can turn a standard DWI into a felony offense, punishable by years in prison and steep financial penalties.

Administrative Penalties for Serious Injury DWI

Even if your criminal case hasn’t concluded, Missouri law imposes automatic administrative consequences:

• 5-Year License Revocation – Mandatory under Missouri DOR regulations
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) – Required for Limited or Restricted Driving Privileges (LDP/RDP)
• Out-of-pocket expenses for all reinstatement procedures

These penalties are separate from—and in addition to—any criminal consequences imposed by the court.

Why You Need a Missouri DWI Lawyer for Serious Injury Charges

At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced DWI attorneys bring over 40 years of combined experience and a track record of success handling thousands of DWI and DUI cases statewide. We understand the science, the law, and the human impact of these charges—and we fight to minimize or eliminate them entirely.

Our approach includes:

• Challenging the BAC and field sobriety test evidence
• Reviewing police conduct for constitutional violations
• Analyzing accident reconstruction reports
• Negotiating for charge reductions or dismissals

Consequences of a DWI Serious Injury Conviction

If convicted, you could face:

• Felony criminal record
• Prison time (up to 7 years or more)
• Up to $10,000 in fines
• Revoked driver’s license
• Increased insurance premiums—or loss of coverage
• Employment and housing difficulties

You don’t have to face this alone—our DWI serious injury lawyers are here to protect your freedom, your record, and your future.

Other DWI Services We Provide in Missouri

• General DWI/DUI Defense
• First-Time DWI
• Second-Offense DWI
• DWI Accidents
• Felony DWI
• CDL DWI
• Hit and Run DWI
• Aggravated DWI

Contact a DWI Serious Injury Lawyer in St. Louis Today

Time is critical after a DWI accident involving serious injury. Contact Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or schedule a free consultation online. We serve clients in St. Louis, Kansas City, and across Missouri.

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DWI Second Offense Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

Getting charged with a second DWI in Missouri is not just a repeat offense—it’s a significantly more serious legal situation. Unlike a first DWI, a second DWI carries harsher penalties, increased scrutiny from prosecutors, and a real threat to your freedom, driving privileges, and future.

DWI Second Offense Lawyer in St. Louis

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What Happens If You're Charged with a Second DWI in Missouri?

Missouri law treats repeat DWI offenders much more severely. A second DWI conviction—especially within five years of a prior offense—can lead to:

• Mandatory jail time (up to one year)
• Driver’s license revocation for up to 5 years
• Installation of an ignition interlock device
• Significant fines and court costs
• Permanent criminal record and loss of employment opportunities

Even if your first DWI occurred years ago, it can still influence the outcome of your current case.

Why Choose Combs Waterkotte?

Our attorneys have successfully represented thousands of DWI clients across Missouri—including repeat offenses. We know what’s at stake, and we bring:

• 50+ years of combined experience handling DWI/DUI cases
• Personalized legal strategies based on your specific history
• Relationships with local courts and prosecutors
• Unrelenting defense designed to protect your license and record

At Combs Waterkotte, we will work to reduce charges, protect your freedom, and get you the second chance you deserve.

What Sets a Second DWI Apart from a First?

Second DWI charges come with different legal designations, like “prior offender” or “persistent offender,” that can enhance penalties. Unlike a first offense, where leniency may be granted, a second charge usually results in mandatory jail time and stricter sentencing guidelines.

Our team will evaluate every element of your case—BAC levels, police procedure, field sobriety test results, and dashcam footage—to identify opportunities for suppression or dismissal.

Related Missouri DWI Charges We Handle

• General DWI/DUI Defense
• First-Time DWI
• DWI Accidents
• CDL DWI
• Felony DWI
• Hit and Run DWI
• Aggravated DWI

Talk to a St. Louis DWI Second Offense Lawyer Today

Your future is too important to leave to chance. If you’re facing a second DWI charge in St. Louis or anywhere in Missouri, contact Combs Waterkotte immediately. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or request a free consultation online. We’re here to help 24/7.

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