Rape Defense Lawyer in Bridgeton, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our knowledgeable Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in Bridgeton, 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 includes the use of a substance administered without that person’s knowledge or consent, rendering them physically or mentally impaired so as to be incapable of making an informed consent to sexual intercourse.
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 Bridgeton, 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.
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 more severe penalties under either degree of rape in Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
Given the severity of a rape accusation, hiring a knowledgable and persistent rape defense lawyer in Bridgeton, MO is crucial. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Track Record: It is vital to choose a lawyer with a proven history of successfully handling rape defense cases. Their past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Bridgeton, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies tailored to these types of 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 Bridgeton, MO area.
- Excellent 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 offer free, no-strings-attached consultations to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic 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 in Bridgeton, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Bridgeton, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Bridgeton, MO, your first move should be to contact 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 Bridgeton, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Bridgeton, 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 strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, gather and examine evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s assertions. - 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 Bridgeton, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Bridgeton, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This approach involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
- Consent: In Bridgeton, 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 skilled rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Providing an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a strong defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not follow proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Bridgeton, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you’re accused of rape in or around Bridgeton, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in Bridgeton, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Bridgeton and beyond:
Reach Out to an Expert Bridgeton, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
If you’re accused of rape in Bridgeton, 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 developing strong defense strategies, an assertive Bridgeton, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Bridgeton, MO.
