Hazelwood, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Hazelwood, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Hazelwood, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you are undoubtedly going through one of the most challenging times of your life. The potential consequences are severe, 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 Hazelwood, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed Hazelwood, MO rape defense lawyers immediately 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 Hazelwood, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

Facing rape charges in Hazelwood, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties 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 Hazelwood, 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.

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. The penalty 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 Hazelwood, 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 Hazelwood, 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 Hazelwood, MO a necessity. Key attributes to seek 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 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 in Hazelwood, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Hazelwood, MO area.
• Strong Communication Abilities: Your attorney 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 provide free, no-obligation case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation throughout the Hazelwood, MO area.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Hazelwood, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or around Hazelwood, MO, your first move should be to call 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 Hazelwood, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Hazelwood, MO possess extensive knowledge of sexual offense laws throughout Missouri and the legal nuances that come with these cases. They are proficient in the relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements needed to build a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously 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 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 Hazelwood, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte

A Hazelwood, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:

• Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Hazelwood, 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, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our skilled rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: Presenting 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 did not adhere to proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Hazelwood, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you are accused of rape in or around Hazelwood, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the ideal rape defense lawyer in Hazelwood, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Hazelwood, 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

Contact an Experienced Hazelwood, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately

If you are facing a rape accusation in Hazelwood, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, seeking the expertise of a specialized attorney is the first essential step in safeguarding your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to developing effective defense strategies, an assertive Hazelwood, 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 Hazelwood, MO.