Sex offense lawyers in University City, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in University City, MO or anywhere else in Missouri for that matter can be a life-altering experience. The stigma and potential legal consequences, along with social and professional ramifications, make it crucial to have an experienced and determined sex offense lawyer on your side.
If you or a loved one is facing these charges, call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-strings-attached consultation with one of our sex offense lawyers. There, you can discuss the specifics of your case and get expert legal advice and guidance on your next steps.
Legal Videos
What Happens When You Are Wrongfully Accused of a Sex Crime?
What happens when you are wrongfully accused of a sex crime? Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Right. And you'll see sometimes, and I've had cases, where you had two individuals …
Too Intoxicated to Give Consent?
Missouri criminal defense lawyers Steven Waterkotte and Chris Combs talk about alleged victims being too intoxicated to give consent. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Most people …
Criminal Lawyer Talks About Representing Sex Criminals
Real Criminal Defense Lawyer talks about representing sex criminals. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: I always say probably what the public views as the most vile or despicable …
Your Word Against Theirs in Court
Are just allegations enough to get charged with a crime? When it's your word against theirs in court. Episode Transcript Chris Combs: And allegations alone will do it. Steve hit on this …
What Happens When You Are Charged With a Child Sex Crime?
What happens when you are charged with a child sex crime? Episode Transcript Chris Combs: If you're a tier three sex offender, you can only have approved electronic devices. You have to …
What Happens When You Are Wrongfully Accused of a Sex Crime?
What happens when you are wrongfully accused of a sex crime? Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Right. And you'll see sometimes, and I've had cases, where you had two individuals …
Too Intoxicated to Give Consent?
Missouri criminal defense lawyers Steven Waterkotte and Chris Combs talk about alleged victims being too intoxicated to give consent. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Most people …
Criminal Lawyer Talks About Representing Sex Criminals
Real Criminal Defense Lawyer talks about representing sex criminals. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: I always say probably what the public views as the most vile or despicable …
Your Word Against Theirs in Court
Are just allegations enough to get charged with a crime? When it's your word against theirs in court. Episode Transcript Chris Combs: And allegations alone will do it. Steve hit on this …
What Happens When You Are Charged With a Child Sex Crime?
What happens when you are charged with a child sex crime? Episode Transcript Chris Combs: If you're a tier three sex offender, you can only have approved electronic devices. You have to …
Sex Offense Lawyers in University City, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in the University City, MO area. It is crucial to comprehend the legal landscape when facing these charges. Moreover, the lingering doubt and shame associated with even an accusation of a sexual offense can disrupt your life significantly, making a swift resolution imperative.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in University City, MO offer a perfect blend of hands-on experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and over 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.
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Sex Offense Lawyers in University City, MO: Sex Crimes in University City, MO
Missouri law categorizes sex offenses into various types, each with distinct definitions and applicable penalties. The following are some of the most common sex offenses as defined under Missouri Revised Statutes:
- Rape: Rape entails non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration, often accompanied by force, threats, or incapacitation of the victim. According to RSMo. § 566.030, rape is a serious felony offense with prison sentences ranging from 5 years to life.
- Sodomy: Sodomy includes oral or anal sexual conduct with another person without their consent. Statutory sodomy pertains to deviate sexual intercourse with an individual under 14 years old.
- Sexual Abuse/Assault: Sexual abuse or assault includes various forms of non-consensual sexual behavior, such as inappropriate touching or groping, which do not meet the criteria for rape or sodomy but still involve criminal exploitation or harm.
- Statutory Rape: Statutory rape is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor below the legal age of consent. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17, and sexual activity with a minor under 14 can lead to charges of statutory rape in the first degree.
- Sexual Misconduct With a Minor: A charge of sexual misconduct with a minor involves inappropriate sexual contact with a minor under 15 years old. This includes actions like exposing one’s genitals or coercing the minor to expose their genitals or breasts. While various forms of sexual misconduct are criminal, this particular offense is the most serious under RSMo. § 566.083, often classified as a class D or class E felony.
- Child Pornography: This charge involves the creation, distribution, or possession of sexually explicit images or videos of children under the age of 18. Child pornography in University City, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a class D or class B felony offense and, according to RSMo. § 573.037, you could be subject to separate sentences for each article of child pornography you are accused of possessing, creating, or distributing.
- Sexual Exploitation: Sexual exploitation involves using minors or vulnerable individuals for sexual purposes, like creating explicit content. Charges can range based on specifics, frequently involving trafficking or exploiting minors.
- Sexual Contact With a Student: This offense usually involves sexual interactions between educators, school employees, or volunteers, and students in the same school district. Sexual contact with a student is viewed severely in University City, MO, due to the inherent power imbalance and risk of student exploitation.
These sex offenses can carry varying degrees of penalties depending on factors like the victim’s age, the extent of force used, the nature of the relationship between the accused and the victim, and any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense ruin your life. The University City, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers recognize the seriousness of these allegations and will provide a robust defense. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in University City, MO: Penalties for Convictions
The consequences of a sex offense conviction in University City, MO may include:
- Prison Time: Based on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the severity of the offense, you could be facing a prison term of years or even life.
- Fines: You may be required to pay substantial fines and court costs, as is the case with many criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: If convicted, you will have to register as a sex offender likely for life, which will affect job prospects, housing options, and personal relationships throughout the University City, MO area.
- Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: A conviction can seriously harm your reputation and affect relationships with coworkers, loved ones, family members, and neighbors. The enduring or permanent nature of these convictions in the University City, MO area makes it difficult to restore your life even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the University City, MO Sex Offense Lawyers of Combs Waterkotte on Your Side
No matter the severity of your charges, the Combs Waterkotte legal team is here to help. Our knowledgeable lawyers provide:
Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in University City, MO
Our legal experts specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay current on changes in University City, MO and Missouri legislation and court rulings, ensuring your defense is grounded in the most current legal standards in the state.
Thorough Case Evaluation
A knowledgeable University City, MO sex offense lawyer carefully reviews all evidence against you, including any witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case and develop a robust defense strategy.
Safeguarding Your Rights in University City, MO
Making sure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in University City, MO. Our seasoned sex offense lawyers will defend your rights every step of the way – during interrogations, investigations, and, if necessary, court proceedings. Call our legal team now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Tailored Defense Strategies
Every case is different, requiring a tailored defense strategy. Whether it’s challenging the validity of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea deals, our sex offense lawyers will formulate a solid strategy that fits your particular circumstances.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout the Duration of Your Case in University City, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers are genuinely concerned about their clients’ well-being and make an effort to understand your story. This period of time can be incredibly stressful. Our empathetic University City, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal advice and support, but also offer emotional guidance to help you and your family manage.
When you’re facing a sex offense charge in or around University City, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the leading sex offense lawyers in University City, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed sex offense lawyers, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for University City, MO residents:
Sex Offense Lawyers in University City, MO: Potential Defense Strategies
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation in or around University City, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense lawyers are ready to help. It’s important to understand the potential defenses that might help you. Some common defense strategies our experienced sex offense lawyers utilize include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our attorneys will work to prove that you were not the individual responsible for the crime.
- Consent: We can demonstrate that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity with factual evidence, as well as by investigating the accuser’s background.
- Alibi: Our lawyers can establish that you were in a different location when the crime took place.
- False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, including financial incentives, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Connect With the Leading University City, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
Being accused of a sex offense in University City, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and overwhelming situation. However, with the right legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can defend your rights and future, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in University City, MO immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.
