Laclede County, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Laclede County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Laclede County, 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. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the Laclede County, MO legal system.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable Laclede County, 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 Laclede County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

Facing rape charges in Laclede County, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties 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 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. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Laclede County, MO, doing whatever it takes to fight 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

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. This offense is classified as a class C felony, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain factors can lead to enhanced penalties for any degree of rape in Laclede County, MO, including but not limited to:

• Use of a deadly weapon
• Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
• Having prior convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in Laclede County, 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 Laclede County, MO. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Track Record: You should look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling rape defense cases just like yours. Their previous successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Laclede County, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in 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 Laclede County, MO area.
• Excellent Communication Abilities: 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 case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in Laclede County, MO.

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

If you are facing a rape charge in or around Laclede County, MO, your first move should be to contact 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 Laclede County, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Laclede County, 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 statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements needed to build a robust 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 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 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 Laclede County, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte

A Laclede County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:

• Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This approach involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
• Consent: In Laclede County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing an alibi or witness testimony that disputes the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Laclede County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Laclede County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the leading rape defense lawyer in Laclede County, 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 offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Laclede County and beyond:

• 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 Laclede County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you are facing a rape accusation in Laclede County, 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 crafting effective defense strategies, an assertive Laclede County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Laclede County, MO.