Rape Defense Lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Cape Girardeau, 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 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 Cape Girardeau, MO legal system.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our experienced Cape Girardeau, MO rape defense lawyers immediately 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 Cape Girardeau, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
Facing rape charges in Cape Girardeau, 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 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 penalty for this offense is anywhere from 5 years to life imprisonment. Some more severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Cape Girardeau, 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 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. This crime 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 factors can lead to more severe penalties under either degree of rape in Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO: Key Attributes 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 Cape Girardeau, MO is crucial. Things 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 achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Cape Girardeau, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Cape Girardeau, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Abilities: 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 case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate 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 throughout the Cape Girardeau, MO area.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or around Cape Girardeau, MO, the first thing you should do is 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 Cape Girardeau, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Cape Girardeau, MO have an 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 intricacies necessary to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and 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 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 lessens the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Cape Girardeau, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In Cape Girardeau, 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 statements.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness testimony that disputes the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to adhere to proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Cape Girardeau, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you’re accused of rape in or around Cape Girardeau, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading rape defense lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Cape Girardeau, 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
Contact an Experienced Cape Girardeau, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re accused of rape in Cape Girardeau, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting robust defense strategies, an aggressive Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO.
