Crestwood, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Crestwood, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Crestwood, 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 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 Crestwood, MO legal system.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our experienced Crestwood, 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 Crestwood, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

Facing rape charges in Crestwood, 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 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 Crestwood, 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

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, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain factors can lead to more severe penalties under either degree of rape in Crestwood, 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 Crestwood, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side

Given the severity of a rape accusation, hiring a knowledgable and persistent rape defense lawyer in Crestwood, MO is crucial. Things to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Track Record: It is vital to choose a lawyer with a proven history of successfully handling rape defense cases. Their past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Crestwood, MO area.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, as opposed 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 Crestwood, MO area.
• Strong 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 case reviews that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Crestwood, MO.

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

If you are facing a rape charge in or around Crestwood, MO, your first move should be to 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 Crestwood, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Crestwood, 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 requirements essential for crafting a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys conduct thorough investigations, gather and examine evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s assertions.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure 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 minimizes the impact on your life.

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

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

• Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This approach involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Crestwood, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our skilled rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Providing an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not adhere to proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Crestwood, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you are accused of rape in or around Crestwood, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in Crestwood, 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 staff offers expertise in the following areas for Crestwood, 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

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

Facing a rape accusation in Crestwood, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and investigating the case to developing robust defense strategies, a proactive Crestwood, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.

Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Crestwood, MO.