Johnson County, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Johnson County, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Johnson 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. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the Johnson County, MO legal system.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed Johnson County, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and get expert guidance on how to proceed.

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

Facing rape charges in Johnson County, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties include:

Rape in the First Degree

According to Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030, an individual commits rape in the first degree if he or she has sexual intercourse with another individual who is incapacitated, incapable of consent, or lacks the capacity to consent, or by the use of 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 is anywhere from 5 years to life imprisonment. Some more severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Johnson County, MO, advocating for you every step of the way. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need and deserve.

Rape in the Second Degree

According to RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree involves engaging in sexual intercourse with another person while knowing that they do not consent. The penalty is a class C felony, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain factors can lead to more severe penalties for either degree of rape in Johnson 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 Johnson County, MO: Key Attributes of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side

The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in Johnson County, MO. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven Track Record: Seek out a lawyer with a demonstrated history of handling rape defense cases similar to yours. Their past successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Johnson County, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, compared 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 Johnson County, MO area.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Your lawyer 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 case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can give you the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Johnson County, MO area.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Johnson County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or near Johnson County, MO, the first step you should take is to call a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte immediately. Our attorneys are available 24/7 by calling (314) 900-HELP or reaching out online to discuss the specifics of your case.

Why you should hire our Johnson County, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Johnson County, MO have an extensive knowledge of sexual offense laws throughout Missouri and the legal nuances that come with these cases. They are well-versed in the relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural intricacies essential for crafting a robust defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process. This includes preventing unlawful searches and seizures, ensuring you receive a fair trial, and safeguarding against self-incrimination.
• Effective Negotiation:
  If a trial is not in your best interest, our skilled rape defense legal 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 Johnson County, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte

A Johnson 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 credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Johnson County, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Johnson County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Johnson County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the ideal rape defense lawyer in Johnson County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Johnson County, MO residents:

• 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 Johnson County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

Facing a rape accusation in Johnson County, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and investigating the case to crafting strong defense strategies, an assertive Johnson County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

Reach out to Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Johnson County, MO.