Jefferson County, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Jefferson County, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Jefferson County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri is incredibly overwhelming. The stakes are high, with potential penalties including lengthy imprisonment, heavy fines, and a lasting impact on your reputation and record. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Jefferson County, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced Jefferson County, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review and get expert guidance on how to proceed.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Jefferson County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

The penalties for rape charges in Jefferson County, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They include:

Rape in the First Degree

As defined by Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030, rape in the first degree occurs when an individual has sexual intercourse with someone who is incapacitated, incapable of consent, or lacks the capacity to consent, or through forcible compulsion – which can involve administering a substance without the person’s knowledge or consent, impairing their ability to make an informed decision.

The penalty for this offense ranges from 5 years to life imprisonment. More severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Jefferson County, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need and deserve.

Rape in the Second Degree

RSMo. § 566.031 qualifies rape in the second degree as sexual intercourse with another individual knowing that he or she does so without that person’s consent. This crime is a class C felony, which can result in a person sentence ranging from 3 to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances can lead to more severe penalties for either degree of rape in Jefferson County, MO, including but not limited to:

• Use of a deadly weapon
• Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
• Having prior convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in Jefferson County, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side

The gravity of a rape accusation makes hiring a knowledgable and tenacious rape defense lawyer in Jefferson County, MO a necessity. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven Track Record: It is vital to choose a lawyer with a proven history of successfully handling rape defense cases. Their past successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Jefferson County, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, as opposed to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Jefferson County, MO area.
• Strong Communication Skills: Your attorney should be able to clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, making sure you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers provide free, no-strings-attached consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Jefferson County, MO.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Jefferson County, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Jefferson County, MO, your first move should be to call a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte now. Our attorneys are available 24/7 by calling (314) 900-HELP or reaching out online to discuss the specifics of your case.

Reasons to hire our Jefferson County, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Jefferson County, MO have a deep understanding of sexual offense laws throughout Missouri and the legal nuances that come with these cases. They are proficient in the statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements essential for crafting a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys conduct thorough investigations, gather and examine evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process. This includes preventing unlawful searches and seizures, ensuring you receive a fair trial, and safeguarding against self-incrimination.
• Negotiation Skills:
  If going to trial isn’t the best option for you, our adept rape defense team can negotiate with the prosecution to reduce charges or secure a plea deal that lessens the impact on your life.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Jefferson County, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte

A Jefferson County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:

• Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This approach involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Jefferson County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our skilled rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness testimony that disputes the accuser’s account can be a strong defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not adhere to proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Jefferson County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Jefferson County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the leading rape defense lawyer in Jefferson County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Jefferson County and beyond:

• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
• Homicide Lawyer
• Assault Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer

Reach Out to an Expert Jefferson County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you are facing a rape accusation in Jefferson County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, seeking the expertise of a specialized attorney is the first essential step in safeguarding your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to crafting strong defense strategies, an assertive Jefferson County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Jefferson County, MO.