Rape Defense Lawyer in Fulton, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Fulton, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, this is probably the most daunting and distressing time of your life. The stakes are incredibly high, with possible long-term – if not permanent – consequences 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 Fulton, MO legal system.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed Fulton, MO rape defense lawyers immediately 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 Fulton, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in Fulton, 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 penalty for this offense is anywhere from 5 years to life imprisonment. Some more severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Fulton, 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.
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. 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 circumstances can lead to more severe penalties under either degree of rape in Fulton, 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 Fulton, MO: Key Attributes 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 Fulton, MO is crucial. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Proven Track Record: Seek out a lawyer with a demonstrated history of handling rape defense cases similar to yours. Their previous successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Fulton, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on 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 specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Fulton, 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-obligation consultations that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can provide the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in Fulton, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Fulton, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or around Fulton, MO, your first move should be to contact a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte immediately. 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 Fulton, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Fulton, 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 statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements needed to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys conduct thorough investigations, 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 a trial is not in your best interest, our skilled rape defense legal 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 Fulton, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Fulton, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This approach involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
- Consent: In Fulton, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our experienced rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Alibi and Witness Testimony: Presenting an alibi or witness testimony that disputes the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Fulton, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Fulton, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the ideal rape defense lawyer in Fulton, MO and throughout Missouri – you are 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 Fulton, 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
Get in Touch With a Skilled Fulton, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
If you’re accused of rape in Fulton, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to developing robust defense strategies, a proactive Fulton, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Fulton, MO.
