Rape Defense Lawyer in Raytown, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Raytown, 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 Raytown, MO legal system.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our esteemed Raytown, 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 Raytown, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Raytown, 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 through forcible compulsion – which includes the use of a substance administered without that person’s knowledge or consent, rendering them physically or mentally impaired so as to be incapable of making an informed consent to sexual intercourse.
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 Raytown, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you 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. 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 more severe penalties for any degree of rape in Raytown, 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 Raytown, 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 Raytown, MO. Important qualities 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 boast over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Raytown, MO area.
- 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 Raytown, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Abilities: Your attorney should be able to 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 consultations that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Raytown, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Raytown, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Raytown, MO, the first step you should take is to contact 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.
Why you should hire our Raytown, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Raytown, MO possess 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 intricacies essential for crafting a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys perform comprehensive investigations, gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s assertions. - 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 protecting you from 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 Raytown, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Raytown, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In Raytown, 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, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
- Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a strong defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not follow proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our Raytown, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Raytown, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the ideal rape defense lawyer in Raytown, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Raytown, MO residents:
Reach Out to an Expert Raytown, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
If you’re accused of rape in Raytown, 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 forming strong defense strategies, an aggressive Raytown, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.
Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Raytown, MO.
