Sex offense lawyers in Marshall, MO. Facing allegations or charges related to a sex offense in Marshall, MO or anywhere in Missouri can profoundly impact your life. 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 someone you care about is dealing with these charges, reach out to Combs Waterkotte without delay at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online. Schedule a free, no-obligation case review with one of our sex offense lawyers to discuss the specifics of your case and receive expert legal advice and guidance on your next steps.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Marshall, MO: Understanding Sex Offenses
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences, particularly in Marshall, MO and the surrounding areas. It is crucial to comprehend the legal landscape if you’re facing these charges. Additionally, the enduring shadow of doubt or shame cast by an accusation of a sexual offense is enough to want to get this quickly resolved.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Marshall, 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 Marshall, MO: Sex Crimes in Marshall, MO
Missouri law defines sex offenses into various categories, each with unique definitions and corresponding penalties. Here are some of the most common sex offenses as defined under Missouri Revised Statutes:
- Rape: Rape includes non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration, often accompanied by force, threats, or incapacitation of the victim. According to RSMo. § 566.030, rape is a serious felony offense with prison sentences ranging from 5 years to life.
- Sodomy: Sodomy includes oral or anal sexual conduct with another person without their consent. Statutory sodomy is having deviate sexual intercourse with another person who is less than 14 years of age.
- Sexual Abuse/Assault: Sexual abuse or assault includes various forms of non-consensual sexual behavior, such as inappropriate touching or groping, which do not meet the criteria for rape or sodomy but still involve criminal exploitation or harm.
- Statutory Rape: Statutory rape is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor below the legal age of 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. While various forms of sexual misconduct are criminal, this particular offense is the most serious under RSMo. § 566.083, often a class D or class E felony.
- Child Pornography: This crime entails producing, distributing, or possessing sexually explicit materials featuring minors. In Marshall, MO, and Missouri at large, child pornography offenses are classified as class D or class B felony offenses under RSMo. § 573.037. Each instance of possession, creation, or distribution is treated as a separate offense.
- Sexual Exploitation: This crime involves using a minor or vulnerable person for sexual purposes, such as creating child pornography. Sexual exploitation charges can vary depending on the circumstances, but often involve either trafficking for sexual exploitation or the sexual exploitation of a minor.
- Sexual Contact With a Student: This charge typically refers to sexual interactions between a teacher, school employee, or volunteer, and a student in the same school district. Sexual contact with a student is a serious offense in Marshall, MO, due to the power imbalance and the potential for exploiting the student.
These sex offenses can carry varying degrees of penalties based on factors like the victim’s age, the extent of force used, the relationship between you and the victim, and any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense ruin your life. The Marshall, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers comprehend the seriousness of these charges and are ready to defend you. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Saline County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Saline County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Marshall, MO: Penalties for Convictions
The consequences of a sex offense conviction in Marshall, MO may include:
- Prison Time: Based on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the gravity of your offense, you could be looking at a prison sentence ranging from several years to life imprisonment.
- Fines: You may be required to pay significant 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 Marshall, MO area.
- Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: A conviction can seriously harm your reputation and affect relationships with coworkers, loved ones, family members, and neighbors. The enduring or permanent nature of these convictions in the Marshall, MO area makes it difficult to restore your life even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Marshall, MO Sex Offense Lawyers of Combs Waterkotte on Your Side
Regardless of the gravity of your charges, the Combs Waterkotte legal team is here to help. Our knowledgeable lawyers provide:
In-Depth Sex Offense Legal Expertise in Marshall, MO
Our legal experts focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay up-to-date on changes in Marshall, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, ensuring your defense is based on the most current legal standards in the state.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
An experienced Marshall, MO sex offense attorney carefully reviews all evidence against you, such as any witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case and formulate a strong defense strategy.
Protecting Your Rights in Marshall, MO
Maintaining your constitutional rights during the Marshall, MO legal process is critical. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will defend your rights at every stage – from interrogations and investigations to court proceedings if necessary. Give our legal team a call right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Strategic Defense Planning
Every case is unique and demands a customized defense strategy. Whether it’s challenging the validity of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea bargains, 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 Marshall, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers are genuinely concerned about their clients’ well-being and they take the time to understand your side of the story. This can be an extremely stressful period in your life. Our compassionate Marshall, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal advice and support, but also emotional guidance which can help you and your family manage.
When you are facing a sex offense charge in or around Marshall, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading sex offense lawyers in Marshall, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed sex offense lawyers, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Marshall, MO residents:
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
- Homicide Lawyer
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
Sex Offense Lawyers in Marshall, MO: Potential Defense Strategies
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation anywhere near Marshall, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense attorneys are ready to help. Understanding the possible defenses that could be employed in your case is crucial. Some common defense strategies our experienced sex offense lawyers might employ include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our lawyers will look to prove that you were not the person who committed this crime.
- Consent: We can demonstrate that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity with factual evidence, as well as by investigating the accuser’s background.
- Alibi: Our lawyers can establish that you were in a different location when the crime occurred.
- False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, such as financial incentives, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Connect With the Leading Marshall, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
Facing sex offense charges in Marshall, MO Marshall, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and overwhelming experience. However, with the right legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can safeguard your rights and future, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Marshall, MO immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-obligation case review.