Rape Defense Lawyer in Marshall, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Marshall, 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 Marshall, MO legal system.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our knowledgeable Marshall, 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 Marshall, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Marshall, 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 they engage in sexual intercourse with another person 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. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Marshall, 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
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. The penalty is a class C felony, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain factors can lead to more severe penalties under either degree of rape in Marshall, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- Having prior convictions for sexual offenses
Rape Defense Lawyer in Marshall, MO: Key Attributes of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side
Given the severity of a rape accusation, hiring a knowledgable and persistent rape defense lawyer in Marshall, MO is crucial. 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 have over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Marshall, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, as opposed to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Marshall, MO area.
- Strong 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: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate 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 Marshall, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Marshall, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Marshall, MO, the first thing you should do is 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.
Why you should hire our Marshall, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Marshall, 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 strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize 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 protecting you from 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 Marshall, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Marshall, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In Marshall, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, previous 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 identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing an alibi or witness evidence 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, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Marshall, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Marshall, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best rape defense lawyer in Marshall, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Marshall, MO residents:
Contact an Experienced Marshall, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re accused of rape in Marshall, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to developing robust defense strategies, an aggressive Marshall, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Marshall, MO.
