Rape Defense Lawyer in Kirkwood, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Kirkwood, 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 Kirkwood, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable Kirkwood, MO rape defense lawyers right now 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 Kirkwood, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in Kirkwood, 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 through 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 penalties for this crime range from 5 years to life imprisonment, with more severe charges carrying mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Kirkwood, 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
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 crime is 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 for any degree of rape in Kirkwood, 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 Kirkwood, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in Kirkwood, 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 past successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Kirkwood, MO.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Kirkwood, 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 case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Kirkwood, MO area.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Kirkwood, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or around Kirkwood, MO, the first step you should take is 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 Kirkwood, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Kirkwood, 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 relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements necessary to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced 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. - 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 lessens the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Kirkwood, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Kirkwood, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Kirkwood, 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, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
- 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 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 in any way, our Kirkwood, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Kirkwood, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in Kirkwood, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Kirkwood and beyond:
- 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 Kirkwood, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
Facing a rape accusation in Kirkwood, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and investigating the case to developing strong defense strategies, an aggressive Kirkwood, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Kirkwood, MO.
