Florissant, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Florissant, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Florissant, 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 Florissant, MO legal system.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our esteemed Florissant, MO rape defense lawyers right now 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 Florissant, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

Facing rape charges in Florissant, 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 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 Florissant, 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.

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 offense is classified as 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 for any degree of rape in Florissant, 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 Florissant, 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 Florissant, 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 achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Florissant, MO area and beyond.
• 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 focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Florissant, MO area.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Your lawyer 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 provide free, no-obligation case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains 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 in Florissant, MO.

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

If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Florissant, MO, the first step you should take is 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 Florissant, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Florissant, 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 relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements essential for crafting a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, gather and examine evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s assertions.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected 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 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 Florissant, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

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

• Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
• Consent: In Florissant, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. 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 testimony that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Florissant, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you’re accused of rape in or around Florissant, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in Florissant, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Florissant, 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
• Criminal Lawyer

Get in Touch With a Skilled Florissant, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you are facing a rape accusation in Florissant, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, seeking the expertise of a specialized attorney is the first essential step in safeguarding your future. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting robust defense strategies, an assertive Florissant, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Florissant, MO.