Combs Waterkotte adds investigator Andrew Skoklo

St. Louis criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte has hired Andrew Skoklo as an investigator, adding law enforcement, corrections, and military experience to its defense team. The firm says the hire will strengthen case review, evidence analysis, and client support across Missouri and Illinois.

Why it matters: - Andrew Skoklo’s background is expected to give Combs Waterkotte another layer of case investigation experience in criminal defense matters. - The hire may help the firm review evidence more thoroughly and challenge prosecution claims more effectively. - Clients facing criminal charges can be affected not just legally, but also in their jobs, families, reputations, and future plans.

What happened: - Combs Waterkotte announced that Andrew Skoklo has joined the St. Louis-based firm as an investigator. - Skoklo will support criminal defense attorneys with evidence review, case preparation, key-fact identification, and client guidance through the legal process. - The firm represents clients across Missouri and Illinois. - Chris Combs, managing partner at Combs Waterkotte, said Skoklo’s real-world investigative experience can make a meaningful difference for clients.

The details: - Skoklo’s background includes investigating incidents, evaluating evidence, interviewing witnesses, preparing reports, and handling legal and procedural issues. - His experience includes work in law enforcement, corrections, public service, and client advocacy. - Skoklo also served as a Hospital Corpsman in the United States Navy attached to the United States Marine Corps. - In that role, Skoklo provided medical care in challenging operational environments alongside Marines. - Combs Waterkotte said that experience contributed to Skoklo’s discipline, composure, and service mindset. - The firm said Skoklo’s firsthand knowledge of the criminal justice system will help clients better understand how cases are investigated, charged, and prosecuted. - Skoklo was raised in the St. Louis region and said he is committed to serving the community he calls home. - Outside work, Skoklo spends time with his wife and young son, explores local food spots, and golfs. - Combs Waterkotte’s practice includes misdemeanor, felony, federal, DWI, drug, sex crime, violent crime, and other criminal charges.

Between the lines: - The hire signals a continued emphasis on investigation-heavy defense work, not just courtroom advocacy. - Skoklo’s combined military and law enforcement background fits a criminal defense model that values procedural detail and evidence scrutiny. - The firm is using the addition to reinforce its message of client-centered representation and aggressive preparation.

What's next: - Skoklo will begin supporting the firm’s attorneys on active criminal defense cases. - Combs Waterkotte is likely to lean on the new investigator to strengthen fact gathering, witness review, and defense strategy across Missouri and Illinois. - The firm says the addition will help it protect clients’ rights, futures, and freedom through thorough preparation.