Bowling Green, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Bowling Green, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Bowling Green, 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. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the Bowling Green, MO legal system.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our esteemed Bowling Green, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review to discuss your situation and receive expert advice on your next steps.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Bowling Green, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

Facing rape charges in Bowling Green, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties 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 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 ranges from 5 years to life imprisonment. More severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Bowling Green, 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

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, punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances can lead to more severe penalties for any degree of rape in Bowling Green, 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 Bowling Green, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side

The gravity of a rape accusation makes hiring a knowledgable and tenacious rape defense lawyer in Bowling Green, MO a necessity. 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 boast over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Bowling Green, MO area and beyond.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Bowling Green, MO area.
• Excellent 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 provide free, no-obligation consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Bowling Green, MO.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Bowling Green, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Bowling Green, 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.

Reasons to hire our Bowling Green, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Bowling Green, 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 needed 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, gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case.
• 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.
• 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 lessens the impact on your life.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Bowling Green, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

A Bowling Green, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:

• Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Bowling Green, 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, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting 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 follow proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Bowling Green, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Bowling Green, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the best rape defense lawyer in Bowling Green, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Bowling Green, MO residents:

• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
• Homicide Lawyer
• Assault Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer

Get in Touch With a Skilled Bowling Green, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you’re accused of rape in Bowling Green, 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 strong defense strategies, an aggressive Bowling Green, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.

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