St. Francois County, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in St. Francois County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in St. Francois 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 a permanent mark on your criminal record. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the St. Francois County, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our esteemed St. Francois County, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and get expert guidance on how to proceed.

Rape Defense Lawyer in St. Francois County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

The penalties for rape charges in St. Francois County, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They include:

Rape in the First Degree

According to Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030, an individual commits rape in the first degree if he or she has sexual intercourse with another individual 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 them 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. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in St. Francois County, MO, advocating for you every step of the way. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need.

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 circumstances can lead to more severe penalties under either degree of rape in St. Francois County, MO, including but not limited to:

• Use of a deadly weapon
• Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
• Previous convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in St. Francois 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 St. Francois County, MO. Important qualities to look for 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 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the St. Francois County, MO area.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of 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 St. Francois County, MO area.
• Strong Communication Skills: Your lawyer 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-obligation consultations to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can give you the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation throughout the St. Francois County, MO area.

Rape Defense Lawyer in St. Francois County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or near St. Francois 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 St. Francois County, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in St. Francois County, MO have a deep understanding 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 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 conduct thorough investigations, gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s assertions.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will vigilantly protect your constitutional rights 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 St. Francois County, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte

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

• Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
• Consent: In St. Francois County, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our experienced rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: 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 failed to follow proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our St. Francois County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you’re accused of rape in or around St. Francois County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the best rape defense lawyer in St. Francois County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for St. Francois County, 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 St. Francois County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you’re accused of rape in St. Francois County, 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, a proactive St. Francois County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in St. Francois County, MO.