DeKalb County, MO

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.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our esteemed DeKalb County, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review and get expert guidance on how to proceed.

Rape Defense Lawyer in DeKalb County, MO: Understanding 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 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 penalties for this crime range from 5 years to life imprisonment, with more severe charges carrying mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in DeKalb County, 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 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, 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 for 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
• Previous convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in DeKalb County, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side

The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in DeKalb County, MO. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven 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 boast more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the DeKalb County, MO area and beyond.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the DeKalb County, MO area.
• Strong Communication Abilities: Your lawyer should 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-strings-attached consultations that offer 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 tough time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation throughout the DeKalb County, MO area.

Rape Defense Lawyer in DeKalb County, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte

If you have been charged with rape in or around DeKalb County, MO, your first move should be to call 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.

Why you should hire our DeKalb County, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in DeKalb County, MO have a deep understanding 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 rely 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 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.
• 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 Accuser’s Credibility: This approach involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
• Consent: In DeKalb County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our skilled rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness testimony that disputes the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our DeKalb County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you are accused of rape in or around DeKalb County, MO and partner with 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. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for DeKalb County, MO residents:

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

Contact an Experienced DeKalb County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re accused of rape in DeKalb County, 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 developing strong defense strategies, an assertive DeKalb County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in DeKalb County, MO.