Rape Defense Lawyer in New London, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in New London, 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 New London, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed New London, MO rape defense lawyers right now 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 New London, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in New London, 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 through forcible compulsion – which can involve administering a substance without the person’s knowledge or consent, impairing their ability to make an informed decision.
The penalty for this offense ranges from 5 years to life imprisonment. More severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in New London, 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
As defined by RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree occurs when an individual knowingly engages in sexual intercourse without the other person’s 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 enhanced penalties for either degree of rape in New London, 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 New London, MO: Key Attributes 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 New London, MO is crucial. Things to look for 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 more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in New London, MO.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in 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 New London, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: Your attorney should 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 maintains professionalism can give you the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in New London, MO.
Ralls County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Ralls County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in New London, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around New London, MO, the first step you should take is to 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.
Reasons to hire our New London, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in New London, 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 intricacies essential for crafting a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s assertions. - 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 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 New London, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A New London, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
- Consent: In New London, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our skilled rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to find any mistakes 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 powerful defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to adhere to proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our New London, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you are facing a rape accusation in or around New London, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in New London, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for New London, 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
- Criminal Lawyer
Get in Touch With a Skilled New London, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
If you are facing a rape accusation in New London, 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 developing robust defense strategies, an aggressive New London, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in New London, MO.