O’Fallon, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in O’Fallon, MO. Facing a rape accusation in O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced O’Fallon, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review to discuss your situation and receive expert advice on your next steps.

Rape Defense Lawyer in O’Fallon, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

The penalties for rape charges in O’Fallon, 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 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 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 O’Fallon, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need.

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. This crime is a class C felony, punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain factors can lead to enhanced penalties for any degree of rape in O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, MO: Key Attributes 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 O’Fallon, MO a necessity. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & 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 boast over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the O’Fallon, MO area.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess more profound 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 O’Fallon, MO area.
• Strong Communication Abilities: Your lawyer should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, making sure 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.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in O’Fallon, MO.

Rape Defense Lawyer in O’Fallon, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte

If you have been charged with rape in or around O’Fallon, MO, the first step you should take is to contact a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte right away. 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 O’Fallon, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in O’Fallon, 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 needed to build a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers conduct thorough investigations, gather and examine evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s assertions.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will vigilantly protect your constitutional rights 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 minimizes the impact on your life.

Rape Defense Lawyer in O’Fallon, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

A O’Fallon, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:

• Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
• Consent: In O’Fallon, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our experienced rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting 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 did not adhere to proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our O’Fallon, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around O’Fallon, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the ideal rape defense lawyer in O’Fallon, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in O’Fallon 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 O’Fallon, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately

Facing a rape accusation in O’Fallon, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting robust defense strategies, an assertive O’Fallon, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in O’Fallon, MO.