Rape Defense Lawyer in Manchester, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Manchester, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you are undoubtedly going through one of the most challenging times of your life. The potential consequences are severe, 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 Manchester, MO legal system.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our knowledgeable Manchester, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and get expert guidance on how to proceed.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Manchester, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
The penalties for rape charges in Manchester, 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 can involve administering a substance without the person’s knowledge or consent, impairing their ability to make an informed decision.
The penalties for this crime range from 5 years to life imprisonment, with more severe charges carrying mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Manchester, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. 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, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain factors can lead to more severe penalties for any degree of rape in Manchester, 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 Manchester, 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 Manchester, MO is crucial. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Track Record: Seek out a lawyer with a demonstrated history of handling rape defense cases similar to yours. Their past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Manchester, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Manchester, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: Your lawyer should be able to clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, making sure you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers offer free, no-strings-attached case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can offer 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 throughout the Manchester, MO area.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Manchester, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or around Manchester, MO, the first thing you should do is contact 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.
Reasons to hire our Manchester, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Manchester, 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 needed to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys perform comprehensive investigations, gather and examine evidence, and 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 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 Manchester, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Manchester, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Manchester, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness statements.
- Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our experienced rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing an alibi or witness evidence 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 in any way, our Manchester, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you are accused of rape in or around Manchester, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the ideal rape defense lawyer in Manchester, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Manchester, MO residents:
Get in Touch With a Skilled Manchester, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you are facing a rape accusation in Manchester, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, seeking the expertise of a specialized attorney is the first essential step in safeguarding your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to crafting robust defense strategies, a proactive Manchester, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Manchester, MO.
