Wildwood, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Wildwood, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Wildwood, 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 Wildwood, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed Wildwood, MO rape defense lawyers right now 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 Wildwood, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

The penalties for rape charges in Wildwood, 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 through 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 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 Wildwood, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need.

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. 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 circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties for either degree of rape in Wildwood, 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 Wildwood, MO: Key Attributes 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 Wildwood, MO a necessity. Things 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 achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Wildwood, MO area.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared to 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 Wildwood, MO area.
• Strong Communication Abilities: Your attorney should 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 case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Wildwood, MO area.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Wildwood, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or around Wildwood, 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 Wildwood, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Wildwood, 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 statutes, precedents, and procedural intricacies essential for crafting a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine 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 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 Wildwood, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte

A Wildwood, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:

• Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This approach involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
• Consent: In Wildwood, MO cases where consent is disputed, 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.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our skilled rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: Presenting an alibi or witness evidence that disputes the accuser’s account can be a strong defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to adhere to proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Wildwood, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Wildwood, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the leading rape defense lawyer in Wildwood, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Wildwood, MO residents:

• 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

Get in Touch With a Skilled Wildwood, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re accused of rape in Wildwood, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to forming robust defense strategies, an assertive Wildwood, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.

Reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Wildwood, MO.