Marion County, MO

Sex offense lawyers in Marion County, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in Marion County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri for that matter can be a life-altering experience. The stigma, potential legal repercussions, and social and professional consequences make it imperative to have a skilled and dedicated sex offense lawyer.

If you or a loved one is facing these serious charges, contact Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our sex offense lawyers to discuss the specific circumstances of your case and obtain expert legal advice and guidance on the best course of action.

Sex Offense Lawyers in Marion County, MO: Understanding Sex Offenses

Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences, especially in Marion County, MO and the surrounding areas. It is crucial to understand the legal landscape when facing these charges. Moreover, the lingering doubt and shame associated with even an accusation of a sexual offense can disrupt your life substantially, making a swift resolution imperative.

The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Marion County, MO possess a unique combination of hands-on experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our exceptional record and more than 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.

Sex Offense Lawyers in Marion County, MO: Kinds of Sex Crimes

Missouri law categorizes sex offenses into various types, each with distinct definitions and applicable penalties. The following are some of the most common sex offenses as defined under Missouri Revised Statutes:

• Rape: Rape involves non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration, often accompanied by force, threats, or incapacitation of the victim. According to RSMo. § 566.030, rape is a severe felony with potential prison sentences ranging from 5 years to life.
• Sodomy: Sodomy includes oral or anal sexual conduct with another person without their consent. Statutory sodomy pertains to deviate sexual intercourse with an individual under 14 years old.
• Sexual Abuse/Assault: Sexual abuse or assault covers a range of abusive sexual behaviors that may not meet the criteria for rape or sodomy, including touching or groping, but still involve exploitation or harm and are still considered criminal.
• Statutory Rape: Statutory rape involves sexual intercourse with a minor below the age of consent, even if the minor appears to consent. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17, and sexual activity with a minor under 14 can lead to charges of statutory rape in the first degree.
• Sexual Misconduct With a Minor: A charge of sexual misconduct with a minor involves inappropriate sexual contact with a minor under 15 years old. This includes actions like exposing one’s genitals or coercing the minor to expose their genitals or breasts. Other forms of sexual misconduct are also illegal in and around Marion County, MO, but sexual misconduct with a minor is the most serious offense under RSMo. § 566.083, often classified as a class D or class E felony.
• Child Pornography: This charge involves the creation, distribution, or possession of sexually explicit images or videos of children under the age of 18. Child pornography in Marion County, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a class D or class B felony offense and, according to RSMo. § 573.037, you could be subject to separate sentences for each article of child pornography you are accused of possessing, creating, or distributing.
• Sexual Exploitation: This crime involves using a minor or vulnerable person for sexual purposes, such as producing child pornography. Sexual exploitation charges can vary depending on the circumstances, but often include either trafficking for sexual exploitation or the sexual exploitation of a minor.
• Sexual Contact With a Student: This typically refers to sexual contact or behavior between an educator (teacher, school employee, or volunteer) and a student enrolled in the same school district. Sexual contact with a student is taken very seriously in the Marion County, MO area due to the inherent power imbalance and potential for exploitation of the student by the adult in a position of authority.

These sex offenses can result in different levels of penalties depending on factors like the victim’s age, the use and severity of force, the relationship between the parties involved, and any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense derail your life. The Marion County, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers comprehend the seriousness of these allegations and will provide a robust defense. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

Sex Offense Lawyers in Marion County, MO: Penalties for Convictions

The consequences of a sex offense conviction in Marion County, MO may include:

• Prison Time: Based on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the severity of the offense, you could be looking at a prison term of years or even life.
• Fines: You may have to pay substantial fines and court costs, as is the case with many criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
• Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: If convicted, you will have to register as a sex offender likely for life, which will affect job prospects, housing options, and personal relationships throughout the Marion County, MO area.
• Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: A sex offense conviction in Marion County, MO can damage your reputation and harm the relationships in your life – whether it’s colleagues, romantic relationships, family members, or neighbors. The long-lasting or even permanent nature of sex offense convictions throughout the Marion County, MO area make it difficult to rebuild your life, even after serving your sentence.

Why You Need the Marion County, MO Sex Offense Lawyers of Combs Waterkotte on Your Side

No matter the severity of your charges, the Combs Waterkotte legal team is here to help. Our knowledgeable lawyers offer:

Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in Marion County, MO

Our attorneys specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay up-to-date on changes in Marion County, MO and Missouri legislation and court rulings, making sure your defense is grounded in the state’s most recent legal standards.

Comprehensive Case Evaluation

A skilled Marion County, MO sex offense attorney carefully reviews all evidence against you, such as any witness statements, police reports, and forensic information, to spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and formulate a strong defense strategy.

Protecting Your Rights in Marion County, MO

Making sure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Marion County, MO. Our seasoned sex offense lawyers will safeguard your rights at every juncture – from interrogations and investigations to court proceedings if necessary. Call our legal team right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

Tailored Defense Strategies

Each case is distinct and requires a personalized defense plan. Whether it involves challenging the validity of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea deals, our sex offense lawyers will formulate a solid strategy that fits your particular circumstances.

Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout the Duration of Your Case in Marion County, MO

The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers are genuinely concerned about their clients’ well-being and make an effort to understand your story. This period of time can be incredibly stressful. Our compassionate Marion County, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal counsel and support, but also offer emotional guidance to help you and your family manage.

When you’re facing a sex offense charge in or around Marion County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the best sex offense lawyers in Marion County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable sex offense lawyers, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Marion County and beyond:

• Homicide Lawyer
• Assault Lawyer
• Rape Defense Lawyer
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer

Sex Offense Lawyers in Marion County, MO: Potential Defenses

If you’re facing a sex offense accusation near Marion County, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense legal team is prepared to assist. Knowing the potential defenses available can be crucial to your case. Some common defense strategies our expert sex offense lawyers utilize include:

• Mistaken Identity: Our legal team will work to prove that you were not the person who committed this crime.
• Consent: We can provide evidence demonstrating that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity, supported by factual proof and an investigation into the accuser’s background.
• Alibi: Our attorneys can work to provide evidence that you were somewhere else when the crime occurred.
• False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, like financial gain, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.

Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Connect With the Leading Marion County, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away

Being accused of a sex offense in Marion County, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and stressful situation. However, with the right legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can defend your rights and your future, and work toward the best possible outcome.

Give the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Marion County, MO a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost, confidential case review.