# Steven Waterkotte and the Personal Side of Criminal Defense
Published: 2026-11-06
Category: Business
Category URL: https://business.express/category/business/
URL: https://business.express/steven-waterkotte-and-the-personal-side-of-criminal-defense/

![Steven Waterkotte](https://prod.superblogcdn.com/site_cuid_cm5qsmfaw001wwirgq3ggueqg/images/steven-waterkotte-1793966829773-compressed.jpg)

Combs Waterkotte describes a practice approach that combines courtroom advocacy with clear communication for clients facing accusations.

The qualities that an attorney draws on in court can differ from those a client needs in a private conversation. Courtroom advocacy involves addressing legal challenges; client communication requires patience, clarity and an appreciation of uncertainty. [Missouri defense attorney Steven Waterkotte](https://www.combswaterkotte.com/about/steven-waterkotte/) and his firm describe both as important parts of their approach to [criminal defense in St. Louis](https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyer-st-louis-mo/).

According to the firm, preparation and communication are central to Waterkotte’s practice. Its published approach emphasizes helping clients understand their available options and the steps involved in their defense.

## **Resolve in the Courtroom**

Waterkotte is a founding partner of Combs Waterkotte, a [law firm serving Missouri and Illinois](https://www.combswaterkotte.com/). His published biography lists admission to the Missouri Bar in 2009 and practice areas including criminal defense, [St. Louis DWI/DUI matters](https://www.combswaterkotte.com/practice-areas/dwi-dui-lawyer-st-louis-mo/) and orders of protection. The firm also handles white-collar and federal criminal matters; representation in any jurisdiction depends on the relevant attorney’s admission and applicable court rules.

That range of work requires attention to the circumstances of each case. The firm describes preparation and an individual approach to defense strategy as priorities, with the legal issues and available options shaping the representation.

The firm’s [awards page](https://www.combswaterkotte.com/awards-honors-accolades/) lists professional recognitions associated with the practice. Such listings are distinct from the circumstances and outcome of any individual case. The firm says its focus is on preparing a defense that reflects each client’s situation.

## **Understanding Who Else Is Affected**

Waterkotte’s published biography also describes community involvement in the St. Louis area. It identifies volunteer work with Big Brothers Big Sisters and membership in Attorneys for Amachi Missouri, a programme addressing the needs of children with at least one parent in prison.

Those activities concern families and children whose lives intersect with the criminal justice system.

Within its practice, the firm says it seeks to offer clear guidance and support to individuals facing accusations. Families may also need information, while the attorney’s professional responsibilities remain directed toward representing the client.

![](https://prod.superblogcdn.com/site_cuid_cm5qsmfaw001wwirgq3ggueqg/images/image-cp-1793966846813-compressed.jpeg)

_Photo credit: Combs Waterkotte_

**Making the Defense Understandable**

Understanding the available choices can help a client participate in decisions about a defense. According to the firm’s published [client-centered approach](https://www.combswaterkotte.com/why-choose-combs-waterkotte/client-centered-approach/), communication is an ongoing responsibility, including keeping clients informed about their legal situation, possible outcomes and the steps being taken on their behalf.

The firm describes transparency and consistency as central to that approach. Its stated aim is to give clients explanations they can use to make informed decisions during stressful circumstances.

Waterkotte and fellow founder Christopher Combs present their practice as centred on representing people facing accusations. The firm’s published philosophy links clear communication with advocacy for clients’ legal rights.

For people facing accusations, understanding the legal process is one part of preparing a defense. Combs Waterkotte describes communication and courtroom advocacy as connected responsibilities within its practice.


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