Rape Defense Lawyer in Scotland County, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Scotland County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri is incredibly overwhelming. The stakes are high, with potential penalties including lengthy imprisonment, heavy fines, and a lasting impact on your reputation and 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 Scotland County, MO legal system.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable Scotland 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 Scotland County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Scotland 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 includes the use of a substance administered without that person’s knowledge or consent, rendering he or she physically or mentally impaired so as to be incapable of making an informed consent to sexual intercourse.
The penalty for this offense is anywhere from 5 years to life imprisonment. Some more severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Scotland County, MO, doing whatever it takes to fight 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. 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 Scotland County, 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 Scotland County, 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 Scotland County, MO is crucial. Key attributes to seek 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 have over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Scotland County, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, as opposed to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Scotland County, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Skills: 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 provide free, no-strings-attached case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & 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 throughout the Scotland County, MO area.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Scotland County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or near Scotland County, MO, the first step you should take is 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.
Why you should hire our Scotland County, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Scotland 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 necessary to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys conduct thorough 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 protected throughout the legal process. This includes preventing unlawful searches and seizures, ensuring you receive a fair trial, and protecting you from 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 minimizes the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Scotland County, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Scotland County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Scotland County, 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 prior communications, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness testimony 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, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Scotland County, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you’re accused of rape in or around Scotland County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the best rape defense lawyer in Scotland County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Scotland County, MO residents:
- Assault Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Lawyer
- Juvenile Defense Lawyer
Reach Out to an Expert Scotland County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
Facing a rape accusation in Scotland County, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting effective defense strategies, a proactive Scotland County, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing 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 Scotland County, MO.
