Rape Defense Lawyer in DeKalb County, MO. Facing a rape accusation in DeKalb County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri is incredibly overwhelming. The stakes are high, with potential penalties including lengthy imprisonment, heavy fines, and a lasting impact on your reputation and 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 DeKalb County, MO legal system.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable DeKalb County, 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 DeKalb County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
The penalties for rape charges in DeKalb County, 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 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 DeKalb 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
RSMo. § 566.031 qualifies rape in the second degree as sexual intercourse with another individual knowing that he or she does so without that 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 under either degree of rape in DeKalb County, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
- Having prior convictions for sexual offenses
Rape Defense Lawyer in DeKalb County, 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 DeKalb County, MO is crucial. Key attributes to seek 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 successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the DeKalb County, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared 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 DeKalb County, MO area.
- Strong Communication Abilities: Your attorney should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, ensuring you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers provide free, no-strings-attached case reviews to provide 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 needed during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in DeKalb County, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in DeKalb County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around DeKalb County, MO, your first move should be to contact a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte right away. 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 DeKalb County, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in DeKalb County, MO possess 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 necessary to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s assertions. - Protection of Rights:
A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process. This includes preventing unlawful searches and seizures, ensuring you receive a fair trial, and protecting you from 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 lessens the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in DeKalb County, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A DeKalb County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This approach involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In DeKalb County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide 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.
- 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 evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Testimony: Presenting an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our DeKalb County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you’re accused of rape in or around DeKalb County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best rape defense lawyer in DeKalb County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in DeKalb County and beyond:
- 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 DeKalb County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
Facing a rape accusation in DeKalb County, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and investigating the case to forming strong defense strategies, a proactive DeKalb County, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in DeKalb County, MO.
