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.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced University City, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and receive expert advice on your next steps.
Rape Defense Lawyer in University City, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in University City, 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 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 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 deserve.
Rape in the Second Degree
RSMo. § 566.031 qualifies rape in the second degree as sexual intercourse with another individual knowing that he or she does so without that person’s consent. This crime 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 for either degree of rape in University City, 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 University City, MO: Key Attributes of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side
The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in University City, MO. Key attributes to seek 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 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 in the University City, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the University City, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Skills: 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 case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can offer 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 University City, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in University City, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or around University City, MO, your first move should be 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.
Reasons to hire our University City, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in University City, MO have an extensive knowledge 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 intricacies necessary 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 ensure that your constitutional rights are protected 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 lessens 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 employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
- Consent: In University City, 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 communications between you and the accuser, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our skilled rape defense lawyer partners 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 disputes 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 in any way, 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 choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in University City, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in University City and beyond:
- Assault Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Lawyer
- Juvenile Defense Lawyer
Get in Touch With a Skilled University City, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
Facing a rape accusation in University City, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and investigating the case to forming strong defense strategies, an assertive University City, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome in your case.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in University City, MO.
