Rape Defense Lawyer in Bolivar, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Bolivar, 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 an irreparable stigma on your criminal record. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Bolivar, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our esteemed Bolivar, 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 Bolivar, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
The penalties for rape charges in Bolivar, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They include:
Rape in the First Degree
As defined by Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030, rape in the first degree occurs when an individual has sexual intercourse with someone who is incapacitated, incapable of consent, or lacks the capacity to consent, or through 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 Bolivar, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need and deserve.
Rape in the Second Degree
As defined by RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree occurs when an individual knowingly engages in sexual intercourse without the other person’s consent. The penalty is 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 circumstances can lead to more severe penalties under either degree of rape in Bolivar, 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 Bolivar, MO: Qualities of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side
The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in Bolivar, MO. Key attributes to seek 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 past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Bolivar, 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, 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 Bolivar, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: Your lawyer should 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 consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can give you the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation throughout the Bolivar, MO area.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Bolivar, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or near Bolivar, 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.
Why you should hire our Bolivar, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Bolivar, 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 essential for crafting a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s assertions. - Protection of Rights:
A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure that your constitutional rights are protected 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 minimizes the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Bolivar, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Bolivar, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In Bolivar, 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 prior communications, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to find any mistakes 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 powerful defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Bolivar, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you are accused of rape in or around Bolivar, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in Bolivar, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Bolivar and beyond:
Get in Touch With a Skilled Bolivar, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
Facing a rape accusation in Bolivar, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and investigating the case to developing robust defense strategies, an assertive Bolivar, 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 Bolivar, MO.
