Audrain County, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Audrain County, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Audrain County, 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 Audrain County, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed Audrain County, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and get expert guidance on how to proceed.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Audrain County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

Facing rape charges in Audrain County, 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 through forcible compulsion – which can involve administering a substance without the person’s knowledge or consent, impairing their ability to make an informed decision.

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 Audrain County, 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

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. This offense is classified as 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 for either degree of rape in Audrain 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 Audrain County, MO: Key Attributes 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 Audrain County, MO. Things 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 past successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Audrain County, MO area and beyond.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Audrain County, MO area.
• Strong Communication Skills: Your lawyer 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.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Audrain County, MO.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Audrain County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

If you have been charged with rape in or near Audrain County, MO, your first move should be to contact 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 Audrain County, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Audrain County, MO have an 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 essential for crafting a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers perform comprehensive 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.
• 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 minimizes the impact on your life.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Audrain County, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

A Audrain County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:

• Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Audrain County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness statements.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced 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 testimony that contradicts 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 Audrain County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Audrain County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading rape defense lawyer in Audrain County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Audrain County, MO residents:

• Gun Crime Lawyer
• 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 Audrain County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

Facing a rape accusation in Audrain County, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and investigating the case to forming robust defense strategies, a proactive Audrain County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Audrain County, MO.