University City, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in University City, MO. Facing a rape accusation in University City, 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 University City, MO legal system.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable University City, MO rape defense lawyers immediately 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 University City, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

Facing rape charges in University City, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties 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 through 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 University City, 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.

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

Aggravating Factors

Certain factors can lead to enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in University City, 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 University City, 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 University City, MO a necessity. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven Track Record: It is vital to choose a lawyer with a proven history of successfully handling rape defense cases. Their past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the University City, MO area.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, unlike 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 University City, MO area.
• Strong Communication Abilities: 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 that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can provide the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation throughout the University City, MO area.

Rape Defense Lawyer in University City, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

If you have been charged with rape in or near University City, MO, your first move should be to contact 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 University City, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in University City, 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 needed to build a robust defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers conduct thorough investigations, gather and examine evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case.
• 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 safeguarding against 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 minimizes the impact on your life.

Rape Defense Lawyer in University City, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

A University City, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:

• Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
• Consent: In University City, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced rape defense lawyer collaborates with 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 contradicts the accuser’s account can be a strong defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not follow proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our University City, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you are facing a rape accusation in or around University City, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best rape defense lawyer in University City, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in University City and beyond:

• Gun Crime Lawyer
• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
• Homicide Lawyer
• Assault Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer

Contact an Experienced University City, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you’re accused of rape in University City, 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 developing strong defense strategies, an aggressive University City, 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 University City, MO.