Plattsburg, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Plattsburg, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Plattsburg, 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 Plattsburg, MO legal system.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our knowledgeable Plattsburg, 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 Plattsburg, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

Facing rape charges in Plattsburg, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties 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 penalties for this crime range from 5 years to life imprisonment, with more severe charges carrying mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Plattsburg, 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 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, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances can lead to more severe penalties for either degree of rape in Plattsburg, 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 Plattsburg, 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 Plattsburg, MO a necessity. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Track Record: You should look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling rape defense cases just like yours. Their past successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Plattsburg, MO area and beyond.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Plattsburg, MO area.
• Strong 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-strings-attached case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Facing 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 stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in Plattsburg, MO.

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

If you have been charged with rape in or around Plattsburg, 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 Plattsburg, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Plattsburg, 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 statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements necessary to build a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine 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 protecting you from 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 Plattsburg, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte

A Plattsburg, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:

• Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
• Consent: In Plattsburg, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness statements.
• Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our skilled rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing an alibi or witness evidence that disputes 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 obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Plattsburg, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.

When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Plattsburg, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in Plattsburg, 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 provides expertise in the following areas for Plattsburg, 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 Plattsburg, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you’re accused of rape in Plattsburg, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting strong defense strategies, an aggressive Plattsburg, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome in your case.

Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Plattsburg, MO.