What if the Accusation Is Retaliation or Revenge? 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 you suspect the accusation is retaliation or revenge in Illinois, document everything, including messages, interactions, or evidence of potential motives, and share this information with your attorney immediately. Retaliatory accusations can sometimes be challenged through inconsistencies in the accuser's story or evidence of ulterior motives. Your attorney may use this information to challenge credibility or establish potential bias. Do not...

A defense lawyer can challenge a false allegation by:

Your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the allegations, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and work to establish reasonable doubt.

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.

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What if the Accusation Is Connected to Child Custody? 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 the accusation is tied to child custody in Illinois, it can seriously impact your case. Courts prioritize the child's safety, and even unproven allegations may influence custody decisions. Document all interactions, preserve evidence, and inform your attorney immediately. Your attorney can evaluate the accusation's credibility and relevance to custody proceedings. Avoid direct contact with the accuser unless permitted and...

Could Lindsay Clancy be found NOT GUILTY based on the evidence?

In this video, a former police officer turned private investigator breaks down the Lindsay Clancy case from an investigative perspective. He examines the evidence, key details surrounding the case, and why the facts may support a not guilty verdict.

This isn't about ignoring the tragedy of what happened. It's about examining how the criminal justice system determines guilt, intent, and criminal responsibility, and whether the evidence actually meets the legal burden required for a conviction.

Watch the full breakdown and decide for...

Combs Waterkotte is a leading criminal defense law firm serving Missouri and Illinois, as well as clients nationwide facing federal criminal charges. Our criminal defense attorneys fight to protect your freedom and constitutional rights, pursuing justice and the best possible outcome for your case. Our exceptional track record and over 600 reviews speak for themselves. If you are facing criminal charges or have already been arrested, we can help. Call us at (314) 900-HELP 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you are facing criminal charges in Missouri, the consequences of a conviction can be severe and life-altering...

You've probably heard the classic prison advice: "On your first day, find the biggest guy in the yard and hit him." It's been repeated in movies, TV shows, and prison stories for decades, but is it actually good advice, or could it make your situation a whole lot worse?

A former correctional officer explains what would REALLY happen if a new inmate walked into prison and immediately tried to fight the biggest, toughest person they could find. From prison politics and inmate hierarchies to respect, reputation, and the unwritten rules everyone is expected to understand, there's a...

Did Lindsay Clancy admit that she was guilty? Not exactly. People are mistaking a trial strategy for a guilty plea.

As the Lindsay Clancy case continues to attract national attention, statements she allegedly made after the deaths of her three children have become a major part of the public conversation. But there’s an important difference between making a statement about what happened and legally admitting guilt.

With her defense centered heavily on her mental condition at the time of the killings, understanding the difference between admitting an act and admitting criminal responsibility could be cr...

Are there MAJOR red flags in Patrick Clancy’s timeline of what happened that night? The Lindsay Clancy case has been analyzed from nearly every angle, but the timeline surrounding the deaths of her three children continues to raise important questions. In this video, a former police officer and investigator examines Patrick Clancy’s reported timeline. Investigators know that in cases this serious, seemingly minor details can matter. Timing, phone records, statements, movements, and whether different pieces of evidence corroborate one another can all become important when reconstructing exactly what happened. Do these details reveal genuine inconsistencies investigators should scru...

Was Lindsay Clancy suffering from severe mental illness, and what does the actual evidence tell us? In Part 2 of The Lindsay Clancy Interview Sessions, Andrew Skoklo, a former police officer, Navy veteran, former correctional officer and now investigator, takes a deeper look at one of the most important and controversial questions surrounding the case: Lindsay Clancy’s mental state leading up to the deaths of her three children.

We examine the reported evidence surrounding her mental health treatment, medications, behavior, statements, and the circumstances leading up to the tragedy. The discussion also explores how investigators, attorneys, and ul...

The Lindsay Clancy Interview Sessions - Part 1 of 2

In this video, Andrew Skoklo - a former police officer, Navy veteran, and correctional officer turned private investigator - breaks down the Lindsay Clancy case from an investigative perspective. He examines the evidence, key details surrounding the case, and why the facts strongly support a not guilty verdict.

This isn’t about ignoring the tragedy of what happened. It’s about examining how the criminal justice system determines guilt, intent, and criminal responsibility, and whether the evidence actually meets the legal burden required for a conviction.

Su...

Could the murder case against Luigi Mangione get thrown out?

Luigi Mangione is facing an enormous legal battle, but some of the most important fights may happen before a jury ever decides whether he is guilty.

In this video, Andrew Skoklo, a former police officer turned private investigator, examines the legal issues that could weaken the prosecution’s case, including challenges involving searches, seized evidence, statements to law enforcement, constitutional rights, and whether critical evidence could be suppressed.

Could a successful defense challenge seriously damage the murder case against Luigi Mangione?

In this video, a former police officer turned private investigator breaks down the Lindsay Clancy case from an investigative perspective and explains why the jury is taking so long. When a jury spends hours, or even days, deliberating, it’s easy to assume something unusual is happening behind closed doors. But a long deliberation can mean many different things.

Are jurors divided? Are they struggling with the evidence? Is one juror holding out? Or are they simply taking their time with an incredibly serious and complicated case?

In the Lindsay Clancy case, the jury has to...

Why were crushed-up pills reportedly found in the Lindsay Clancy case?

It’s one of the stranger details surrounding the case, and it raises some obvious questions.

In this video, Andrew Skoklo, a former police officer turned private investigator, breaks down the Lindsay Clancy case from an investigative perspective.

With Clancy’s mental health, medications, and state of mind already playing such a major role in the case, the reported discovery of crushed pills adds another layer to the story.

Why were the pills crushed? Who crushed them? Were they actually take...

Is Lindsay Clancy’s defense really THAT strong?

The case has always come down to more than simply what happened. The real fight is over Lindsay Clancy’s mental state, what she understood at the time, and how the jury interpreted the evidence surrounding her mental health, medications, behavior, and actions that night.

We break down the defense’s strongest arguments, the evidence that may have moved the jury, and the one issue that could be standing between Lindsay Clancy and a verdict.

Is the case AGAINST Lindsay Clancy stronger than people think?

In this video, a former police officer turned private investigator breaks down the Lindsay Clancy case from an investigative perspective.

So much of the attention in this case has focused on Lindsay Clancy’s mental health and the arguments supporting her defense. But when you look at the case from the prosecution’s side, there are details that are much harder to ignore.

Her actions before the killings, the timeline that night, what she allegedly searched for, what she said afterward, and the step...

What does a mistrial actually mean for the Lindsay Clancy case?

After all the testimony, evidence, and jury deliberations, a mistrial can leave people wondering: Is the case over? Does Lindsay Clancy go free? Can prosecutors try her again?

A mistrial does NOT automatically mean someone is guilty or not guilty. It means the trial ended without a final verdict. If a jury cannot unanimously agree, the judge may declare a hung jury and a mistrial.

So what happens next?

We break down what a mistrial means, whether prosecutors can take...

What is it really like to work inside prisons, police departments, and the criminal justice system?

Former law enforcement officer and correctional officer Andrew Skoklo, an investigator at Combs Waterkotte Law Firm, sits down to talk about the side of crime, prison, and policing most people never see.

From dealing with dangerous inmates and learning the unwritten rules of prison to police culture, criminal behavior, manipulation, and the moments that stay with you long after the job is over, Andrew shares stories and lessons from a career spent on the inside.

We also...

Lindsay Clancy’s attorney just asked President Trump to consider a pardon, but can Trump actually do it?

The short answer is no. Lindsay Clancy is facing murder charges in Massachusetts state court, and presidential pardon power only applies to federal crimes. Trump cannot simply pardon her and make the Massachusetts case disappear.

So why would her attorney publicly ask him?

That’s where things get interesting. Clancy’s first trial ended with a hung jury, and prosecutors now have to decide what comes next. Her attorney has acknowledged that Trump cannot legally pardon...

Did Lindsay Clancy actually get a fair trial?

Her trial ended with a mistrial after seven days of deliberations, but what jurors are now saying raises some serious questions.

According to jurors who have spoken publicly, the jury was split 11–1 in favor of finding Clancy not guilty by reason of insanity. Even more controversial, the foreperson says the lone holdout acknowledged having reasonable doubt but still refused to change his position.

The defense tried to have the judge investigate or remove the holdout juror, arguing that he wasn't properly applying the reasonable-doubt standard. Th...

What do police officers really think during traffic stops, interrogations, and criminal investigations?

Former police officer and correctional officer Andrew Skoklo pulls back the curtain on what actually happens behind the badge. From how officers can tell when someone may be lying to the interrogation tactics police are legally allowed to use, Andrew shares firsthand experiences from his career in law enforcement.

He also explains why talking too much can be one of the biggest mistakes an innocent person makes, why detectives intentionally ask questions they already know the answers to, what...

Think you can lie to a police officer without them noticing?

Experienced officers and investigators spend years talking to suspects, witnesses, victims, and people trying to hide something. And sometimes, it’s not the lie itself that gives someone away, it’s what happens around it.

Changing details. Overexplaining simple questions. A story that sounds almost too rehearsed. Details that don’t match the evidence. Or a completely different answer when the same question is asked another way.

A former police officer and investigator explains the behaviors that can make cops suspic...

Former police officer, corrections officer, Navy veteran, and investigator Andrew Skoklo answers some of the internet’s most-asked questions about police, prison, crime, and what actually happens behind the badge.

Can cops tell when you’re lying? What’s the #1 mistake people make during a traffic stop? What should you NEVER say after getting arrested? Do police officers treat other cops differently? What happens when a bodycam doesn’t match the police report? And does seeing your first dea* body change you?

After years of working in law enforcement, corrections, and criminal investigations, Andrew gives his pers...

Missouri criminal defense attorneys Christopher Combs, Matthew Brown, and Martell Turner from Combs Waterkotte recently sat down to discuss all things criminal defense. In this video, they go over twelve of the most common questions related to criminal defense and the role of your lawyer.

Missouri criminal defense attorneys Christopher Combs, Matthew Brown, and Martell Turner from Combs Waterkotte recently sat down to discuss all things criminal defense.

In this video, they discuss Missouri investigative procedure and how to handle law enforcement contacts.

If you've been charged with a crime in St. Louis or anywhere in Missouri, give us...

Missouri Arrests, Police Contact, and Investigations.

Missouri criminal defense attorneys Christopher Combs, Matthew Brown, and Martell Turner from Combs Waterkotte recently sat down to discuss all things criminal defense. In this video, they discuss Missouri investigative procedure and how to handle law enforcement contacts.

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

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If 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 trac...

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

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Federal 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 fr...

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

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Missouri DWI/DUI License Restoration Laws

Missouri 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...

Weapon Offense Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Weapon Offense Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Weapon Offense Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Weapons offenses in Missouri bring steep penalties, harsh prosecutors, and unforgiving public scrutiny. With an experienced defense team, these charges don’t have to define your future. Combs Waterkotte has more than 50 years of combined experience helping clients challenge even the most serious weapons al...

Statutory Sodomy Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Statutory Sodomy Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Statutory Sodomy Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Statutory sodomy charges are among the most severe sex crime allegations in Missouri. Convictions carry mandatory sex offender registration, long-term imprisonment, and life-altering consequences. Combs Waterkotte is Missouri’s leading criminal defense and sex crimes law firm. We are available 24/7 to protect your rights. Ca...

Sexual Misconduct Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Sexual Misconduct Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Sexual Misconduct Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Sexual misconduct charges can turn your life upside down. A conviction can damage your reputation, take away your freedom, and follow you for the rest of your life. Combs Waterkotte is the trusted St. Louis and Missouri sex crimes defense firm that stands beside...

Vehicle Hijacking Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Vehicle Hijacking Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Vehicle Hijacking Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Passed in 2020, Missouri’s vehicle hijacking law imposes severe penalties on anyone convicted of forcibly taking control of a vehicle. The experienced Missouri criminal defense and theft lawyers at Combs Waterkotte understand the high stakes involved in these cases. With extensive resources and deep kn...

Stealing of a Motor Vehicle Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Stealing of a Motor Vehicle Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Stealing of a Motor Vehicle Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Missouri imposes harsh penalties on those who are convicted of stealing motor vehicles. You could face significant time in prison, fines that drain your finances, and the long-term consequences that come with having a criminal...

Third Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Third Degree Domestic Assault Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Third Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Even a verbal argument or brief contact with a loved one can lead to life-changing criminal felony charges. A conviction for third degree domestic assault in Missouri could affect your job, your relationships, and your future. Combs Waterkotte...

Third Degree Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Third Degree Assault Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Third Degree Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Being charged with third degree assault in Missouri may seem like a minor offense, but it’s not. A conviction can lead to jail time, a criminal record, and serious damage to your reputation, career, and family life. Combs Waterkotte‘s St...

Possession With Intent to Distribute Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Possession With Intent to Distribute Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Possession With Intent to Distribute Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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With drug laws becoming ever stricter in St. Louis and throughout Missouri, police and prosecutors are taking aggressive steps to secure convictions and put suspected drug dealers behind bars. At Combs Waterkotte, our criminal defense...

Drug Possession Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Drug Possession Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Drug Possession Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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If you find yourself accused of drug charges or possession, you are likely very afraid that a conviction could bring an unwanted burden for years to come. At Combs Waterkotte, our St. Louis drug charges and possession lawyers take on the challenge and fight...

Shoplifting Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Shoplifting Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Shoplifting Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Depending on the value of the goods stolen, shoplifting can land you in jail in Missouri. If you are facing shoplifting charges, you need the skilled Missouri criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte in your corner. Our attorneys have extensive experience building successful defenses against shoplifting charges...

Second Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Second Degree Domestic Assault Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Second Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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A felony domestic violence charge in Missouri can cost you everything — your freedom, your reputation, and even your family. If you’ve been accused of causing serious harm to a spouse, partner, or household member, Combs Waterkotte is read...

Second Degree Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Second Degree Assault Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Second Degree Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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If you’ve been charged with second-degree assault in Missouri, you’re facing a felony offense that can result in prison time, fines, and a permanent record. Our experienced St. Louis criminal defense and violent crimes lawyers understand how prosecutors approach thes...