Kansas City, MO

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

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our experienced Kansas City, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and receive expert advice on your next steps.

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

The penalties for rape charges in Kansas City, 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 he or she has sexual intercourse with another individual 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. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Kansas City, 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 deserve.

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. The penalty is a class C felony, punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances can lead to more severe penalties for either degree of rape in Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, MO is crucial. Key attributes to seek 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 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 the Kansas City, MO area and beyond.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have deeper 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 Kansas City, MO area.
• Excellent Communication Abilities: Your lawyer should 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 taxing. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation throughout the Kansas City, MO area.

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

If you are facing a rape charge in or near Kansas City, MO, your first move should be to call 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 Kansas City, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Kansas City, 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 statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements needed to build a robust defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys perform comprehensive 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 safeguarding against self-incrimination.
• Effective Negotiation:
  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 Kansas City, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte

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

• Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Kansas City, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our knowledgeable 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 Testimony: Presenting an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not adhere to proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Kansas City, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Kansas City, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the ideal rape defense lawyer in Kansas City, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Kansas City, 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

Contact an Experienced Kansas City, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately

If you’re accused of rape in Kansas City, 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 crafting effective defense strategies, a proactive Kansas City, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

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