Rape Defense Lawyer in Glendale, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Glendale, 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 an irreparable stigma on your criminal record. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Glendale, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our experienced Glendale, 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 Glendale, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in Glendale, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They 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 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. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Glendale, 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
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 circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in Glendale, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
Rape Defense Lawyer in Glendale, 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 Glendale, MO is crucial. Things 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 have over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Glendale, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, unlike 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 Glendale, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: Your attorney should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, ensuring you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers offer free, no-obligation consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing 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 is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Glendale, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Glendale, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or around Glendale, MO, your first move should be to call a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte now. 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 Glendale, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Glendale, 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 requirements necessary to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers conduct thorough investigations, gather and examine 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 protecting you from self-incrimination. - Negotiation Skills:
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 minimizes the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Glendale, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Glendale, 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, motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Glendale, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness statements.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our experienced rape defense lawyer collaborates 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 testimony that disputes the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not follow proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Glendale, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Glendale, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in Glendale, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting 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 Glendale, 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
Reach Out to an Expert Glendale, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
Facing a rape accusation in Glendale, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting strong defense strategies, a proactive Glendale, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Glendale, MO.
