Rape Defense Lawyer in Clark County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Clark County, 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 Clark County, MO legal system.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our esteemed Clark County, MO rape defense lawyers immediately 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 Clark County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
The penalties for rape charges in Clark County, 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. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Clark County, 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 and deserve.
Rape in the Second Degree
According to RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree involves engaging in sexual intercourse with another person while knowing that they do not consent. This crime is 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 enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in Clark County, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
Rape Defense Lawyer in Clark County, 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 Clark County, MO a necessity. Important qualities 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 boast over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Clark County, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, as opposed 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 Clark County, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Abilities: Your attorney 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-obligation case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Clark County, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Clark County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or around Clark County, MO, the first step you should take is to 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.
Why you should hire our Clark County, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Clark County, MO have a deep understanding 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 intricacies necessary to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case. - Protection of Rights:
A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld 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 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 lessens the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Clark County, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Clark County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Clark County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our skilled 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: 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 adhere to proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Clark County, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Clark County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the ideal rape defense lawyer in Clark County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Clark County, 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
Reach Out to an Expert Clark County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
Facing a rape accusation in Clark County, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting robust defense strategies, an aggressive Clark County, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Clark County, MO.
