Lafayette, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Lafayette, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Lafayette, 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 Lafayette, MO legal system.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our knowledgeable Lafayette, 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 Lafayette, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

The penalties for rape charges in Lafayette, 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 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. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Lafayette, 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.

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, punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain factors can lead to more severe penalties for either degree of rape in Lafayette, 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 Lafayette, 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 Lafayette, MO. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven Track Record: You should look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling rape defense cases just like yours. Their past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Lafayette, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Lafayette, MO area.
• Strong Communication Skills: 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-strings-attached consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & 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 is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Lafayette, MO.

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

If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Lafayette, MO, the first thing you should do is 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 Lafayette, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Lafayette, 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 relevant 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, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s assertions.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will ensure 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.
• Effective Negotiation:
  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 lessens the impact on your life.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Lafayette, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte

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

• Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Lafayette, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our skilled 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 disputes the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our Lafayette, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Lafayette, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in Lafayette, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Lafayette, MO residents:

• Assault Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer

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

Facing a rape accusation in Lafayette, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and investigating the case to forming robust defense strategies, an aggressive Lafayette, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome in your case.

Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Lafayette, MO.