Rape Defense Lawyer in Maryville, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Maryville, 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. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Maryville, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced Maryville, 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 Maryville, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Maryville, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties 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 Maryville, MO, fighting tirelessly 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
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. The penalty is a class C felony, which can result in a person sentence ranging from 3 to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain factors can lead to enhanced penalties for either degree of rape in Maryville, 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 Maryville, 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 Maryville, MO is crucial. 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 successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Maryville, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies specific to these 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 Maryville, MO area.
- Strong Communication Abilities: Your lawyer should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, ensuring you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers provide free, no-obligation consultations to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Maryville, MO area.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Maryville, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Maryville, MO, your first move should be to 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 Maryville, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Maryville, MO possess extensive knowledge 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 intricacies needed to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers conduct thorough 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. - Negotiation Skills:
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 Maryville, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Maryville, 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 for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
- Consent: In Maryville, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
- Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our skilled rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: 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, our Maryville, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Maryville, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in Maryville, 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 legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Maryville, MO residents:
Contact an Experienced Maryville, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
If you’re accused of rape in Maryville, 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 developing effective defense strategies, an assertive Maryville, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome in your case.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Maryville, MO.
