Kirkwood, MO

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. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the Kirkwood, MO legal system.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed Kirkwood, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review and get expert guidance on how to proceed.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Kirkwood, MO: What are 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 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 he or she 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 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 factors 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: 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 Kirkwood, MO is crucial. Things to look for 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 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 Kirkwood, MO area.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these 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 Kirkwood, MO area.
• Excellent 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 offer free, no-obligation case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in Kirkwood, MO.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Kirkwood, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte

If you have been charged with rape in or near Kirkwood, MO, the first step you should take is 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.

Why you should hire our Kirkwood, MO attorneys:

• 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 proficient in the relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements needed to build a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will ensure 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.
• 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 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 utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:

• Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
• Consent: In Kirkwood, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our skilled rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: Presenting an alibi or witness evidence that disputes the accuser’s account can be a strong defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Kirkwood, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.

When you’re accused of rape in or around Kirkwood, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in Kirkwood, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Kirkwood, 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

Get in Touch With a Skilled Kirkwood, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately

If you’re accused of rape in Kirkwood, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to forming robust defense strategies, a proactive Kirkwood, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Kirkwood, MO.