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Defending Freedom

Defending Freedom

Written by: Combs Waterkotte
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 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. Hosted by experienced criminal defense attorneys, each episode explores real cases, legal strategies, and the challenges faced by those coming face-to-face with the justice system. With expert insights, powerful stories, and practical advice, Defending Freedom aims to educate and empower listeners on the rights of those charged with crimes and the importance of defending personal freedoms.Combs Waterkotte True Crime
Episodes
  • Conspiracy Defense Lawyer in Missouri

    Conspiracy Defense Lawyer in Missouri
    Nov 19 2025
    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 #Conspiracy #lawyer #attorney #defense #missouri #stlouis #kansascityIf 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 MissouriEven 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 MissouriConspiracy 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 crimeOne party took a “substantial step” toward committing that crimeExamples 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 DefendOur 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 fraudDrug trafficking or distributionArmed robbery or assaultRacketeering or RICO-related offensesSex trafficking or exploitationObstruction of justice or perjuryBecause 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.”Related Federal Defense Pages Federal Crimes Lawyer in Missouri Federal Drug Charges Lawyer in Missouri Federal Drug Trafficking Lawyer in Missouri Federal Embezzlement Lawyer in Missouri Federal Espionage and National Security Violations Lawyer in Missouri Federal Human Trafficking Lawyer in Missouri Federal Immigration Fraud Defense Lawyer in Missouri Federal Internet, Computer & Cyber Crimes Lawyer in Missouri Federal Kidnapping Lawyer in Missouri Federal RICO Charges Lawyer in Missouri Federal Weapons and Firearm Offenses Lawyer in Missouri Federal White Collar Crimes Lawyer in Missouri Federal Wire Fraud Lawyer in Missouri
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    9 mins
  • Federal Check and Credit Card Fraud Defense Lawyer in Missouri

    Federal Check and Credit Card Fraud Defense Lawyer in Missouri
    Nov 19 2025
    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 #federal #lawyer #attorney #defense #missouri #stlouis #kansascity #wirefraudFederal 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.Related Federal Defense Pages Federal Crimes Lawyer Missouri Federal Drug Charges Lawyer in Missouri Federal Drug Trafficking Lawyer in Missouri Federal Embezzlement Lawyer Missouri Federal Espionage and National Security Violations Lawyer in Missouri Federal Human Trafficking Lawyer Missouri Federal Immigration Fraud Defense Lawyer Missouri Federal Internet, Computer & Cyber Crimes Lawyer in Missouri Federal Kidnapping Lawyer in Missouri Federal RICO Charges Lawyer in Missouri Federal Weapons and Firearm Offenses Lawyer Missouri Federal White Collar Crimes Lawyer in Missouri Federal Wire Fraud Lawyer in Missouri
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    12 mins
  • DWI DUI License Restoration Lawyers in Missouri

    DWI DUI License Restoration Lawyers in Missouri
    Nov 19 2025
    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 #dwi #dui #license #lawyer #attorney #defense #missouri #stlouis #kansascityMissouri DWI/DUI License Restoration LawsMissouri 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 MissouriIf 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 MissouriRestoring 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.Related Missouri DWI/DUI Defense Pages DWI/DUI Lawyer in Missouri DWI First Offense Lawyer in Missouri DWI Second Offense Lawyer in Missouri DWI Accidents Lawyer in Missouri CDL DWI Lawyer in Missouri Felony DWI Lawyer in Missouri Hit and Run DWI Lawyer in Missouri Aggravated DWI Lawyer in Missouri
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    14 mins
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