Lebanon, MO

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

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

The penalties for rape charges in Lebanon, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They include:

Rape in the First Degree

As defined by Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030, rape in the first degree occurs when an individual has sexual intercourse with someone 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 penalty for this offense ranges from 5 years to life imprisonment. 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 Lebanon, 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 need.

Rape in the Second Degree

According to RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree involves engaging in sexual intercourse with another person while knowing that they do not consent. This crime is 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 under either degree of rape in Lebanon, MO, including but not limited to:

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

Rape Defense Lawyer in Lebanon, 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 Lebanon, MO. Things 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 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 the Lebanon, MO area and beyond.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies tailored to these types of 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 Lebanon, MO area.
• Strong 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-strings-attached consultations that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can give you the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation throughout the Lebanon, MO area.

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

If you are facing a rape charge in or around Lebanon, 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 Lebanon, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Lebanon, 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 essential for crafting a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys conduct thorough investigations, gather and scrutinize 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 protecting you from 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 Lebanon, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte

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

• Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Lebanon, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our experienced rape defense lawyer will work with a network of 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 conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Lebanon, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Lebanon, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading rape defense lawyer in Lebanon, MO and throughout Missouri – you are 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 Lebanon, 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

Get in Touch With a Skilled Lebanon, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re accused of rape in Lebanon, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From protecting your rights and investigating the case to crafting strong defense strategies, an assertive Lebanon, 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 Lebanon, MO.