Atchison County, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Atchison County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Atchison County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, this is probably the most daunting and distressing time of your life. The stakes are incredibly high, with possible long-term – if not permanent – consequences including imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent mark on your criminal 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 Atchison County, MO legal system.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our experienced Atchison County, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and receive expert advice on your next steps.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Atchison County, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

The penalties for rape charges in Atchison 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 includes the use of a substance administered without that person’s knowledge or consent, rendering he or she physically or mentally impaired so as to be incapable of making an informed consent to sexual intercourse.

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 Atchison County, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you deserve.

Rape in the Second Degree

As defined by RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree occurs when an individual knowingly engages in sexual intercourse without the other person’s 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 circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties for either degree of rape in Atchison County, MO, including but not limited to:

• Use of a deadly weapon
• Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
• Previous convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in Atchison 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 Atchison County, MO. Things to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven Track Record: You should look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling rape defense cases just like yours. Their past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Atchison County, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in 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 defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Atchison County, MO area.
• Strong Communication Skills: Your lawyer should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, ensuring you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers offer free, no-strings-attached consultations to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can provide the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Atchison County, MO.

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

If you are facing a rape charge in or around Atchison County, MO, the first step you should take is to contact 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 Atchison County, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Atchison 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 rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, gather and examine evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure 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.
• Negotiation Skills:
  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 minimizes the impact on your life.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Atchison County, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

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

• Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Atchison County, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our skilled rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing an alibi or witness testimony 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, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Atchison County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you are accused of rape in or around Atchison County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the ideal rape defense lawyer in Atchison County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Atchison 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

Get in Touch With a Skilled Atchison County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape accusation in Atchison County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, seeking the expertise of a specialized attorney is the first essential step in safeguarding your future. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting effective defense strategies, an aggressive Atchison County, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome in your case.

Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Atchison County, MO.