Newton County, MO

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

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our knowledgeable Newton 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 Newton County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

Facing rape charges in Newton County, 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 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 Newton County, 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

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, punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances can lead to more severe penalties for any degree of rape in Newton County, 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 Newton County, 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 Newton County, MO. Things 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 successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Newton County, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these 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 Newton County, MO area.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Your attorney 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.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can provide 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 Newton County, MO area.

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

If you have been charged with rape in or near Newton County, MO, your first move should be 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.

Reasons to hire our Newton County, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Newton County, MO possess extensive knowledge of sexual offense laws throughout Missouri and the legal nuances that come with these cases. They are proficient in the relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements essential for crafting a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously 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 upheld 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 Newton County, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte

A Newton County, 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 analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
• Consent: In Newton County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our skilled rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Providing an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a powerful 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 Newton County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Newton County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the best rape defense lawyer in Newton County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Newton County and beyond:

• 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

Contact an Experienced Newton County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you’re accused of rape in Newton County, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to developing strong defense strategies, an aggressive Newton County, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.

Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Newton County, MO.