Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Ste. Genevieve, 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 Ste. Genevieve, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable Ste. Genevieve, 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 Ste. Genevieve, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in Ste. Genevieve, 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 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. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Ste. Genevieve, 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. This offense is classified as 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 factors can lead to enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in Ste. Genevieve, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, 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 the Ste. Genevieve, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, unlike 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 Ste. Genevieve, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Skills: Your lawyer should be able to 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 that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can give you the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Ste. Genevieve, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or around Ste. Genevieve, 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 Ste. Genevieve, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Ste. Genevieve, MO possess 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 necessary to build a robust 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 challenge the prosecution’s case. - 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. - Effective Negotiation:
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 lessens the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Ste. Genevieve, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Ste. Genevieve, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness statements.
- Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness testimony that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Ste. Genevieve, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Ste. Genevieve, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Ste. Genevieve 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
Contact an Experienced Ste. Genevieve, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re accused of rape in Ste. Genevieve, 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 developing robust defense strategies, an aggressive Ste. Genevieve, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome in your case.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Ste. Genevieve, MO.
