Rape Defense Lawyer in Boonville, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Boonville, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, this is probably the most daunting and distressing time of your life. The stakes are incredibly high, with possible long-term – if not permanent – consequences including imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent mark on your criminal 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 Boonville, MO legal system.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced Boonville, 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 Boonville, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in Boonville, 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 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 includes the use of a substance administered without that person’s knowledge or consent, rendering he or she 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. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Boonville, 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
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 for any degree of rape in Boonville, 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 Boonville, MO: Qualities 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 Boonville, MO is crucial. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Track Record: You should look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling rape defense cases just like yours. Their past successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Boonville, 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 focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Boonville, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Skills: Your lawyer 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 consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can offer the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in Boonville, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Boonville, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or around Boonville, MO, the first thing you should do is contact a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte now. 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 Boonville, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Boonville, 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 statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements necessary to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys 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 Boonville, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Boonville, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In Boonville, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- 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 did not adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Boonville, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you’re accused of rape in or around Boonville, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the ideal rape defense lawyer in Boonville, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing 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 Boonville, MO residents:
- Assault Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Lawyer
- Juvenile Defense Lawyer
Get in Touch With a Skilled Boonville, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re accused of rape in Boonville, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to forming robust defense strategies, an assertive Boonville, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Boonville, MO.
