Rape Defense Lawyer in Mississippi County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Mississippi 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. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Mississippi County, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced Mississippi 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 Mississippi County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
The penalties for rape charges in Mississippi 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 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 is anywhere from 5 years to life imprisonment. Some 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 Mississippi County, 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 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 circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties for either degree of rape in Mississippi County, 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 Mississippi County, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
The gravity of a rape accusation makes hiring a knowledgable and tenacious rape defense lawyer in Mississippi County, MO a necessity. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Proven Track Record: Seek out a lawyer with a demonstrated history of handling rape defense cases similar to yours. Their previous successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Mississippi 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 focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Mississippi County, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Abilities: Your attorney should be able to 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-strings-attached consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can offer the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Mississippi County, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Mississippi County, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or near Mississippi County, 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.
Reasons to hire our Mississippi County, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Mississippi County, 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 needed to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize 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 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 Mississippi County, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Mississippi County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In Mississippi County, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer partners 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 testimony that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a strong defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Mississippi County, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you are accused of rape in or around Mississippi County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading rape defense lawyer in Mississippi County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Mississippi County and beyond:
Contact an Experienced Mississippi County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re accused of rape in Mississippi 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 crafting effective defense strategies, an aggressive Mississippi County, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome in your case.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Mississippi County, MO.
