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. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Florissant, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our experienced Florissant, 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 Florissant, MO: What are 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
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 ranges from 5 years to life imprisonment. More severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Florissant, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need.
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. 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 under either degree of rape in Florissant, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- 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: You should look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling rape defense cases just like yours. 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 Florissant, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, as opposed 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.
- Strong Communication Abilities: Your attorney 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 consultations to provide 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 you need during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Florissant, MO area.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Florissant, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or near Florissant, 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.
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 necessary to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, gather and examine evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case. - 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 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:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Florissant, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, previous 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 find any mistakes 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 did not follow proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Florissant, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Florissant, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t 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 seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Florissant, 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
Contact an Experienced Florissant, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re accused of rape in Florissant, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From protecting your rights and investigating the case to crafting effective defense strategies, an aggressive Florissant, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing 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 Florissant, MO.
