Jennings, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Jennings, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Jennings, 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 Jennings, MO legal system.

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

Rape Defense Lawyer in Jennings, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

Facing rape charges in Jennings, 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 can involve administering a substance without the person’s knowledge or consent, impairing their ability to make an informed decision.

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 Jennings, MO, fighting tirelessly 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

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, 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 for any degree of rape in Jennings, 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 Jennings, MO: Key Attributes of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side

The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in Jennings, MO. 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 previous successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Jennings, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, as opposed to 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 Jennings, MO area.
• Excellent 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 provide free, no-strings-attached case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Jennings, MO area.

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

If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Jennings, 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 Jennings, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Jennings, MO possess extensive knowledge of sexual offense laws throughout Missouri and the legal nuances that come with these cases. They are well-versed in the statutes, precedents, and procedural intricacies needed to build a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure that your constitutional rights are upheld 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 Jennings, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

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

• Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Jennings, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced rape defense lawyer partners 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 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 in any way, our Jennings, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Jennings, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the best rape defense lawyer in Jennings, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Jennings, 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

Reach Out to an Expert Jennings, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape accusation in Jennings, 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 developing strong defense strategies, an aggressive Jennings, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.

Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Jennings, MO.