Rape Defense Lawyer in Howell County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Howell 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 Howell County, MO legal system.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our esteemed Howell County, MO rape defense lawyers right now 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 Howell County, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in Howell County, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They 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 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 is anywhere from 5 years to life imprisonment. Some more severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Howell County, MO, doing whatever it takes to fight for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you 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 enhanced penalties for either degree of rape in Howell County, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
- Having prior convictions for sexual offenses
Rape Defense Lawyer in Howell County, MO: Qualities of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side
The gravity of a rape accusation makes hiring a knowledgable and tenacious rape defense lawyer in Howell 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 previous 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 throughout the Howell County, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have 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 Howell County, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Abilities: 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-obligation consultations to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Howell County, MO area.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Howell County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or near Howell County, MO, the first thing you should do is 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.
Why you should hire our Howell County, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Howell 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 intricacies needed to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s assertions. - 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 protecting you from 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 Howell County, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Howell County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This approach involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Howell County, MO cases where consent is at issue, 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.
- Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Providing 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 failed to follow proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Howell County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Howell County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the best rape defense lawyer in Howell County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Howell County and beyond:
- Assault Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Lawyer
- Juvenile Defense Lawyer
Reach Out to an Expert Howell County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re accused of rape in Howell County, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From protecting your rights and investigating the case to forming effective defense strategies, an assertive Howell County, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Howell County, MO.
