Pulaski County, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Pulaski County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Pulaski 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. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Pulaski County, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our esteemed Pulaski County, MO rape defense lawyers right now 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 Pulaski County, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

The penalties for rape charges in Pulaski County, 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 Pulaski 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

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 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 factors can lead to more severe penalties under either degree of rape in Pulaski 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 Pulaski County, MO: Qualities of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side

The gravity of a rape accusation makes hiring a knowledgable and tenacious rape defense lawyer in Pulaski County, MO a necessity. Things to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Track Record: It is vital to choose a lawyer with a proven history of successfully handling rape defense cases. Their past successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Pulaski County, MO area.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Pulaski County, MO area.
• Strong Communication Skills: Your lawyer 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-strings-attached case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can give you 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 in Pulaski County, MO.

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

If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Pulaski County, MO, the first step you should take is 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.

Why you should hire our Pulaski County, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Pulaski County, 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 necessary to build a robust defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously 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 Pulaski County, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

A Pulaski County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:

• Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Pulaski County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness statements.
• Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our skilled rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing an alibi or witness testimony that disputes the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not follow proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Pulaski County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you’re accused of rape in or around Pulaski County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best rape defense lawyer in Pulaski County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Pulaski 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 Pulaski County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape accusation in Pulaski 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 investigating the case to crafting strong defense strategies, a proactive Pulaski County, 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 Pulaski County, MO.