Learn More About Our Criminal Law Practice in St. Louis County, MO
While we could tell you how incredible our practice is based on our years of experience and success in the field, there's no better way to know what kind of people we are than hearing it directly from our founder and leader, Eric V. Barnhart himself.
We hope this information shows you what makes us the leader in the criminal defense field here in Missouri.
All About Us: Direct from Eric V. Barnhart Himself
I only handle criminal cases. That is what I am great at. I have been practicing criminal law for twenty years. In that time, I have handled every type of case imaginable, from a speeding ticket to murder. No matter the severity of the accusations brought against you, I work equally hard on every case. I will come up with a plan for a defense and execute it.
Initial Criminal Case Steps
When a client hires me, the first thing I do is obtain a copy of the stature, the jury instructions, and research case law. I will interview you, my client, as many times as necessary to ensure no important details are left out. I will execute a plan in every case. For example, in a stealing charge over $750 (felony), I might challenge the value and argue for a misdemeanor. I might work out an agreement with the prosecutor where my client pays full restitution in exchange for the prosecutor amending the charge from a felony to a misdemeanor. Knowing these options and taking advantage of them helps me serve you best.
The Deposition Process
A deposition is when we hire a court reporter who will write down my interview of the witness word for word. The court reporter will type out the transcript of the interview. Depositions protect us by ensuring the witness's testimony is "locked in." A deposition can lead to additional evidence. We will often hire an investigator to interview witnesses or find witnesses who were at the scene. There are times when the police officer does not interview every witness in the case. There might be a witness who can help my client and help secure a not guilty if the case goes to trial.
Jury Trial Experience and Preparation for Your Case
Your attorney must have jury trial experience as well. The threat of a jury trial can often lead to a better outcome in a case. During my twenty-year career, I have first-chaired seventy-three jury trials and had tremendous success winning them. I prepare for these jury trials at the beginning of the case. I will subpoena medical records, subpoena video, obtain records, etc. Once we receive the police reports and discovery from the prosecutor, I usually want to conduct depositions of the key witnesses in the case.
My Criminal Defense Service Area
I handle cases mainly in St. Louis County, City of St. Louis, St. Charles, and Jefferson County. I have handled cases in St. Francois County, Washington, Lincoln County, and St. Genevieve. I also handle federal cases. Rest assured, no matter where you are or what crime is brought against you; you can count on me to do my utmost to defend you.