Missouri Arrests, Police Contact and Investigations — Defending Freedom

Missouri criminal defense attorneys Christopher Combs, Matthew Brown, and Martell Turner from Combs Waterkotte recently sat down to discuss criminal defense in Missouri. In this video, they explain Missouri investigative procedures, what to do when police want to question you, your constitutional rights during an arrest, and how attorneys challenge unlawfully obtained evidence.

In Missouri, individuals generally have the right to remain silent when questioned about suspected criminal activity and can request legal representation. Police may use certain deceptive interrogation tactics, but constitutional protections limit how evidence and statements can be obtained. Following an arrest, officers must comply with applicable detention, charging, and court procedures.

The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, including certain vehicle and cellphone searches. Depending on the circumstances, police may need a warrant, probable cause, consent, or another recognized legal exception. If evidence or statements were obtained in violation of constitutional protections, a criminal defense attorney may file a motion to suppress that evidence.

0:06 - What should I do if Missouri police want to question me?
1:25 - Do I have to talk to police in Missouri?
2:08 - What should I say if I'm arrested?
3:11 - Can police lie during questioning?
3:49 - What happens after an arrest in Missouri?
4:39 - How long can police hold me before charging me?
5:36 - What is probable cause for an arrest?
6:24 - Can police search my vehicle during a traffic stop?
6:55 - Can police search my phone without a warrant?
7:42 - What is a search warrant, and when is it required?
8:39 - What happens if police violate my rights during an arrest?
9:20 - Can illegally obtained evidence be thrown out?

Learn more about Missouri arrests, police investigations, constitutional rights, and criminal defense:

If police want to question you, you are under investigation, or you have been arrested in St. Louis or anywhere in Missouri, contact Combs Waterkotte for a free, confidential consultation. Our criminal defense attorneys investigate police procedures, challenge unlawful searches, examine the prosecution's evidence, and fight to protect your constitutional rights. Call (314) 900-HELP or fill out our online contact form: Contact us.