Rape Defense Lawyer in Maries County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Maries 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 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 Maries County, MO legal system.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable Maries County, MO rape defense lawyers immediately 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 Maries County, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
Facing rape charges in Maries 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 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 Maries County, 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, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances can lead to more severe penalties for either degree of rape in Maries County, 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 Maries County, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
Given the severity of a rape accusation, hiring a knowledgable and persistent rape defense lawyer in Maries County, MO is crucial. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Proven 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 have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Maries County, MO.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, as opposed to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Maries 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 taxing. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can give you the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Maries County, MO area.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Maries County, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Maries County, MO, the first thing you should do is call 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 Maries County, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Maries County, MO have an extensive knowledge 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 conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case. - Protection of Rights:
A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure 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 Maries County, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Maries County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Maries County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony to show that 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: Providing an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not adhere to proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our Maries County, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you are accused of rape in or around Maries County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best rape defense lawyer in Maries County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Maries County and beyond:
- Assault Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Lawyer
- Juvenile Defense Lawyer
Get in Touch With a Skilled Maries County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you are facing a rape accusation in Maries County, 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 thoroughly investigating the case to forming strong defense strategies, an assertive Maries County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Maries County, MO.
