Can I get bail if charged with rape? Yes, it is possible to get bail if you’ve been charged with rape in St. Louis or anywhere else in Missouri, but it can be complex and depends on several factors. The court will determine whether to grant you bail and set the amount based on the severity of the charges, the circumstances of the alleged offense, including if there were any contributing factors, as well as your character and your personal history.
You need a skilled and experienced rape defense attorney on your side, fighting for your release on bail. Combs Waterkotte can help. Our lawyers can present compelling evidence to the judge at a bail hearing. This could include showing you’re not a risk to the community, your family ties and length of residence in the community, your history of punctuality in any previous court appearances, and more.
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How Can I Get Bail?
The parameters of bail in Missouri are set forth in Missouri Revised Statute § 544.676. Key factors in determining bail include:
- Nature of the Crime: Rape is considered a serious felony in Missouri, and courts tend to impose stricter bail conditions due to the gravity of the charge.
- Flight Risk: If the court believes you are likely to flee and avoid trial, it may deny bail or set a higher amount. Stable employment, strong ties to the community, a lack of prior criminal history, and a skilled rape defense attorney can all work in your favor.
- Criminal Record: A clean or limited criminal history can improve your chance of securing bail, and the Combs Waterkotte legal team can help by shedding light on your strong character.
- Public Safety: The court will consider whether releasing you poses a risk to the community or the alleged victim. Orders of protection, no-contact orders, or other restrictions may be issued as part of the bail conditions.
Other reasons for possibly denying or increasing the bail amount include:
- You have violated probation or parole
- You have a history of failing to appear in court
- You are likely to obstruct justice or tamper with witnesses
- You violated a material condition of release while previously on bail
How Can a Combs Waterkotte Rape Defense Lawyer Help Me Get Bail?
Bail for felony charges in Missouri, like rape, is typically set between $5,000 to $100,000. At Combs Waterkotte, we fight to ensure your rights are protected and work diligently to secure bail so you can prepare your defense outside of custody. Here’s how:
Build a Compelling Argument for Bail
Our skilled attorneys work quickly to present a strong case to the court that demonstrates you deserve bail. This includes:
- Emphasizing your ties to the community, such as family, employment, and residency.
- Highlighting your lack of prior criminal history, if applicable. If you do have a record, we’ll work to minimize its effect by highlighting your positive traits.
- Showcasing your commitment to appear in court and cooperate with legal proceedings.
Challenge Excessive Bail Amounts
If the court sets an excessively high bail amount, you can count on our attorneys to fight to have it reduced. Our rape defense lawyers present legal arguments to show that unreasonable bail violates your constitutional rights and makes it impossible for you to prepare your defense strategy effectively.
Navigate Complex Bail Conditions
Rape charges often come with stringent bail conditions like travel restrictions. We work to negotiate fair terms that allow you to maintain your daily life while adhering to the court’s requirements.
Protect Your Rights
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense attorneys make sure that your rights are respected at every stage of the bail process. We relentlessly advocate on your behalf to counter any attempts by the prosecution to deny you bail or impose unnecessarily harsh restrictions.
Worried About Bail? Reach Out to an Award-Winning Defense Attorney at Combs Waterkotte Today
We understand how critical it is to secure your release as quickly as possible. With our aggressive representation and personalized approach, we’ll fight to get you the best possible outcome. Call Combs Watekotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation with an expert criminal defense attorney, and let us start working on your defense immediately.
