Defending Freedom

Defending Freedom

By Combs WaterkotteTrue Crime
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Defending Freedom episodes

  • Can I Remove My Arrest Record After a Sex Crime Case?

    When you are facing a criminal sex charge or arrest in Illinois, the consequences of a conviction can be severe and life-altering. Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and harsh sentencing guidelines, making experienced representation essential. Our Illinois criminal defense attorneys fight relentlessly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches, flawed evidence, and procedural errors, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible. We take the time to understand the unique facts of your sex crime case and maintain clear, honest communication throughout every stage of the sex crime defense process.

    Illinois Sex Crimes Defense and Criminal Defense Resources:

    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Federal Internet Sex Crimes Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Rape Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL

    We help people just like you, every day, no matter the charge. We look forward to helping you in your time of need and stress.

    Contact us today for a 100% free case review and consultation: Contact Combs Waterkotte.

    3 min
  • Will a Sex Crime Arrest Show Up on Background Checks?

    Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.

    Yes, a sex crime arrest in Illinois may appear on certain background checks, even if the charges were later dismissed. Arrest and court records can remain accessible unless they are expunged or sealed. Although many non-conviction records may qualify for expungement or sealing in Illinois, certain sex crime convictions are subject to significant restrictions. Always consult a qualified criminal defense attorney to understand your options.

    Combs Waterkotte is a leading sex crimes defense law firm serving the entire states of Illinois and Missouri. Our sex crime defense attorneys will fight for your freedom and rights and will not stop until you get justice. Our exceptional record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves. If you are facing sex crime criminal charges in Illinois, we can help. Call us at (618) 88-CRIME in Illinois, or at (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    We act fast to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and fight for reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal. From consultation through trial, we deliver clear communication and relentless advocacy. Contact Combs Waterkotte today for a free, confidential case evaluation.

    Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and harsh sentencing guidelines, making experienced representation essential. Our Illinois criminal defense attorneys fight relentlessly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches, flawed evidence, and procedural errors, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible. We take the time to understand the unique facts of your sex crime case and maintain clear, honest communication throughout every stage of the sex crime defense process.

    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Federal Internet Sex Crimes Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Rape Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL

    Contact us today for a 100% free case review and consultation: Contact Combs Waterkotte.

    3 min
  • Will a Conviction Affect Immigration or Deportation Risk?

    Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.

    Yes. A sex crime conviction in Illinois can have serious immigration consequences, especially for offenses involving minors or aggravating factors. Depending on the specific offense and circumstances, a conviction may qualify as a crime involving moral turpitude or an aggravated felony under U.S. immigration law. This can trigger deportation proceedings, inadmissibility, or denial of naturalization. Mandatory immigration detention may also apply in certain cases. The consequences depend on the specific conviction and the individual's immigration status. Always consult an immigration attorney.

    Combs Waterkotte is a leading sex crimes defense law firm serving the entire states of Illinois and Missouri. Our sex crime defense attorneys will fight for your freedom and rights and will not stop until you get justice. Our exceptional record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves. If you are facing sex crime criminal charges in Illinois, we can help. Call us at (618) 88-CRIME in Illinois, or at (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    Our Illinois sex crime criminal defense attorneys act fast to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and fight for reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal. From consultation through trial, we deliver clear communication and relentless advocacy. Contact Combs Waterkotte today for a free, confidential case evaluation.

    Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and harsh sentencing guidelines, making experienced representation essential. Our Illinois criminal defense attorneys fight relentlessly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches, flawed evidence, and procedural errors, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible. We take the time to understand the unique facts of your sex crime case and maintain clear, honest communication throughout every stage of the process.

    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Federal Internet Sex Crimes Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Rape Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL

    Contact Combs Waterkotte.

    2 min
  • Can I Own a Gun After a Sex Crime Conviction in Illinois?

    Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.

    In Illinois, a sex crime conviction can significantly affect your right to own or possess firearms. Felony sex crime convictions generally result in firearm restrictions under state and federal law, while certain misdemeanor convictions may also disqualify individuals from possessing firearms. However, not every misdemeanor sex offense results in a lifetime ban. Depending on the specific conviction and circumstances, some individuals may qualify for restoration of their firearm rights through available legal procedures. Always consult a qualified criminal defense attorney to understand how your conviction may affect your firearm ownership rights.

    Combs Waterkotte is a leading sex crimes defense law firm serving the entire states of Illinois and Missouri. Our sex crime defense attorneys will fight for your freedom and rights and will not stop until you get justice. Our exceptional record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves. If you are facing sex crime criminal charges in Illinois, we can help. Call us at (618) 88-CRIME in Illinois, or at (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    Our Illinois sex crime criminal defense attorneys act fast to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and fight for reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal. From consultation through trial, we deliver clear communication and relentless advocacy. Contact Combs Waterkotte today for a free, confidential case evaluation.

    When you are facing a criminal sex charge or arrest in Illinois, the consequences of a conviction can be severe and life-altering. Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and harsh sentencing guidelines, making experienced representation essential. Our Illinois criminal defense attorneys fight relentlessly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches, flawed evidence, and procedural errors, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible. We take the time to understand the unique facts of your sex crime case and maintain clear, honest communication throughout every stage of the sex crime defense process.

    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Federal Internet Sex Crimes Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL

    Contact us today for a 100% free case review and consultation: Contact Combs Waterkotte.

    2 min
  • What Evidence Should I Save if I'm Accused?

    Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.

    If accused in Illinois, save:

    • Texts, emails, or messages with the accuser
    • Call logs, voicemails, or social media posts
    • Photos, videos, or GPS data proving your location
    • Witness contact information
    • Any documents showing your whereabouts or relationship
    • Police reports or legal notices

    Do not alter or delete anything. Share this evidence only with your attorney.

    Combs Waterkotte is a leading sex crimes defense law firm serving the entire states of Illinois and Missouri. Our sex crime defense attorneys will fight for your freedom and rights and will not stop until you get justice. Our exceptional record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves. If you are facing sex crime criminal charges in Illinois, we can help. Call us at (618) 88-CRIME in Illinois, or at (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    If you're under investigation or have been arrested for a sex crime, our Illinois sex crime criminal defense attorneys act fast to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and fight for reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal. From consultation through trial, we deliver clear communication and relentless advocacy. Contact Combs Waterkotte today for a free, confidential case evaluation. Sex Crimes Defense Attorney in Chicago, IL.

    When you are facing a criminal sex charge or arrest in Illinois, the consequences of a conviction can be severe and life-altering. Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and harsh sentencing guidelines, making experienced representation essential. Our Illinois criminal defense attorneys fight relentlessly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches, flawed evidence, and procedural errors, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible. We take the time to understand the unique facts of your sex crime case and maintain clear, honest communication throughout every stage of the sex crime defense process.

    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault in Illinois
    • Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Illinois
    • Human Sex Trafficking Lawyer in Illinois
    • Prostitution Defense Lawyers Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Rape Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL

    We help people just like you, every day, no matter the charge. We look forward to helping you in your time of need and stress.

    Contact us today for a 100% free case review and consultation: Contact Combs Waterkotte.

    1 min
  • What Should I Do if I'm Falsely Accused of Sexual Assault?

    What Should I Do if I Am Falsely Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois?

    Illinois criminal defense attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte recently sat down to discuss sex crime allegations, criminal investigations, and defending against false accusations. In this video, they explain what to do if you are falsely accused of sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, or another sex crime in Illinois, and how to protect your rights before and after criminal charges are filed.

    If you have been falsely accused of sexual assault in Illinois, important steps to take include:

    • Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid speaking with police without an attorney.
    • Contact an experienced Illinois criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
    • Preserve potential evidence, including text messages, emails, witness information, and alibi documentation.
    • Avoid discussing the allegations on social media or contacting the accuser.
    • Follow your attorney's guidance and comply with any applicable court orders.

    Learn more about defending against sex crime allegations in Illinois and how Combs Waterkotte can help:

    • Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Federal Internet Sex Crimes Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Rape Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Combs Waterkotte Chicago Criminal Defense Office
    • Combs Waterkotte Southern Illinois Criminal Defense Office

    If you have been falsely accused of sexual assault, are under investigation, or are facing sex crime charges in Chicago, Cook County, Southern Illinois, or anywhere in Illinois, contact Combs Waterkotte today. Our criminal defense attorneys are prepared to investigate the allegations, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and fight to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

    Call (312) 500-HELP in Chicago and Northern Illinois or (618) 88-CRIME in Southern Illinois for a free, confidential consultation, or fill out our online contact form: Contact Us.

    2 min
  • Can I Lose Professional Licenses Due to Sex Crime Allegations?

    Can I Lose Professional Licenses Due to Sex Crime Allegations? Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.

    Yes. In Illinois, sex crime allegations, even without a conviction, can potentially lead to disciplinary action against professional licenses, including suspension or revocation. Licensing authorities overseeing professions such as medicine, law, and education may investigate allegations and take disciplinary action depending on the circumstances and applicable professional regulations.

    A sex crime conviction can carry serious professional consequences, including restrictions, suspension, or revocation of a license. However, the specific penalties depend on the nature of the offense, the profession, and the licensing authority's rules. Consult an experienced criminal defense attorney and seek appropriate professional licensing guidance to understand your rights and obligations.

    Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois

    Our sex crime defense attorneys fight to protect your freedom, constitutional rights, professional reputation, and future. Our exceptional record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves. If you are facing sex crime charges in Illinois, we can help. Call us at (618) 88-CRIME in Southern Illinois or (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    From your initial consultation through trial, our attorneys provide clear communication, strategic representation, and dedicated advocacy. Contact Combs Waterkotte today for a free, confidential case evaluation.

    When you are facing a sex crime charge or arrest in Illinois, the consequences of a conviction can be severe and life-altering. Beyond potential incarceration and criminal penalties, allegations or convictions may affect your professional licenses, employment opportunities, reputation, and future career prospects.

    Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and harsh sentencing guidelines, making experienced legal representation essential.

    Our Illinois criminal defense attorneys fight relentlessly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches, flawed evidence, and procedural errors, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible. We take the time to understand the unique facts of your case and maintain clear, honest communication throughout every stage of the criminal defense process.

    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Rape Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    2 min
  • Can Witnesses Help in Sex Crime Cases

    Can Witnesses Help in Sex Crime Cases? Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.

    Yes, witnesses can significantly impact sex crime cases in Illinois. They may provide alibis, corroborate your version of events, or challenge the accuser's credibility. Witnesses can include friends, family, colleagues, or anyone with relevant information about your whereabouts, the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident, or other important facts.

    Depending on the circumstances, witness testimony may help challenge the prosecution's evidence, establish reasonable doubt, or support arguments for reduced charges or dismissal. An experienced defense attorney can identify potential witnesses, evaluate their testimony, and determine how their statements may strengthen your defense.

    Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois

    Our sex crime defense attorneys fight to protect your freedom, constitutional rights, and future. Our exceptional record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves. If you are facing sex crime charges in Illinois, we can help. Call us at (618) 88-CRIME in Southern Illinois or (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    If you're under investigation or have been arrested for a sex crime, our Illinois criminal defense attorneys act quickly to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible.

    Contact Combs Waterkotte now for a free, confidential case evaluation.

    When you are facing a sex crime charge or arrest in Illinois, the consequences of a conviction can be severe and life-altering. Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and harsh sentencing guidelines, making experienced legal representation essential.

    Our Illinois criminal defense attorneys fight relentlessly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches, flawed evidence, and procedural errors, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible.

    We take the time to understand the unique facts of your case, identify potential witnesses, investigate inconsistencies in the allegations, and maintain clear, honest communication throughout every stage of the criminal defense process.

    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Human Sex Trafficking Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Prostitution Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Rape Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    1 min
  • Can Contacting the Accuser Hurt My Case?

    Can Contacting the Accuser Hurt My Case? Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.

    Sex Crimes Defense Lawyers in Illinois

    Combs Waterkotte is a leading sex crimes defense law firm serving communities throughout Illinois and Missouri. Our sex crime defense attorneys fight to protect your freedom, constitutional rights, and future. Our exceptional record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves.

    If you are facing sex crime charges in Illinois, we can help. Call us at (618) 88-CRIME in Southern Illinois or (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    If you're under investigation or have been arrested for a sex crime, our Illinois criminal defense attorneys act quickly to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible.

    From your initial consultation through trial, our attorneys provide clear communication, strategic representation, and dedicated advocacy. Contact Combs Waterkotte today for a free, confidential case evaluation.

    When you are facing a sex crime charge or arrest in Illinois, the consequences of a conviction can be severe and life-altering. Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and harsh sentencing guidelines, making experienced legal representation essential.

    Our Illinois criminal defense attorneys fight relentlessly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches, flawed evidence, and procedural errors, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible. We take the time to understand the unique facts of your case and maintain clear, honest communication throughout every stage of the criminal defense process.

    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Human Sex Trafficking Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Rape Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    1 min
  • What if the Allegation Comes From a Breakup or Divorce?

    What if the Allegation Comes From a Breakup or Divorce? Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.

    If an allegation arises during a breakup or divorce in Illinois, it may be connected to disputes involving child custody, property, or finances. Courts take these allegations seriously, and they can complicate both criminal and family court proceedings. Document any inconsistencies in the accuser's account, preserve all relevant communications, and inform your attorney immediately. Your lawyer can investigate the circumstances surrounding the allegation, challenge credibility where appropriate, and examine whether personal conflicts or ulterior motives may have influenced the accusation.

    Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois

    Combs Waterkotte is a leading criminal and felony defense law firm serving Chicago, Cook County, and communities throughout Illinois and Missouri.

    Our sex crime defense attorneys fight to protect your freedom, constitutional rights, and future. Our exceptional record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves. If you are facing sex crime charges in Illinois, we can help. Call us at (618) 88-CRIME in Southern Illinois or (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    If you're under investigation or have been arrested for a sex crime, our Illinois criminal defense attorneys act quickly to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible.

    From your initial consultation through trial, our attorneys provide clear communication, strategic representation, and dedicated advocacy. Contact Combs Waterkotte today for a free, confidential case evaluation.

    When you are facing a sex crime charge or arrest in Illinois, the consequences of a conviction can be severe and life-altering. Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and harsh sentencing guidelines, making experienced legal representation essential.

    Our Illinois criminal defense attorneys fight relentlessly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches, flawed evidence, and procedural errors, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible. We take the time to understand the unique facts of your case and maintain clear, honest communication throughout every stage of the criminal defense process.

    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Southern Illinois
    • Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Criminal Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Rape Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    • Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Chicago, IL
    2 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.โ€ฆ