Saline County, MO

Sex offense lawyers in Saline County, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in Saline County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri for that matter can be a life-altering experience. The stigma and potential legal consequences, along with social and professional ramifications, make it crucial to have an experienced and determined sex offense lawyer by your side.

If you or a loved one is facing these charges, call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-strings-attached consultation with one of our sex offense lawyers. There, you can discuss the specifics of your case and get expert legal advice and guidance on your next steps.

Sex Offense Lawyers in Saline County, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses

Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences, especially in Saline County, MO and the surrounding areas. Understanding the legal landscape is essential for anyone facing these charges. Moreover, the lingering doubt and shame associated with even an accusation of a sexual offense can disrupt your life significantly, making a swift resolution imperative.

The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Saline County, MO offer a perfect blend of practical experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and over 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.

Sex Offense Lawyers in Saline County, MO: Sex Crimes in Saline County, MO

Missouri law defines sex offenses into various categories, each with unique definitions and corresponding penalties. The following 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. As per 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 is having deviate sexual intercourse with another person who is less than 14 years of age.
• 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 is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor below the legal age of consent. The age of consent is 17 in Missouri, and engaging in sexual activity with a minor under 14 can result in charges of statutory rape in the first degree.
• Sexual Misconduct With a Minor: Charges of sexual misconduct with a minor involve engaging in sexual acts with a minor under 15, including exposing one’s genitals or coercing a minor to expose theirs. Other forms of sexual misconduct are also illegal in and around Saline County, MO, but sexual misconduct with a minor is the most serious offense under RSMo. § 566.083, often a class D or class E felony.
• Child Pornography: This offense includes the creation, distribution, or possession of sexually explicit images or videos of children under 18. In Saline County, MO, and across Missouri, child pornography is a severe crime, classified as a class D or class B felony, as outlined in RSMo. § 573.037. Each piece of child pornography may result in separate charges.
• Sexual Exploitation: Sexual exploitation involves using minors or vulnerable individuals for sexual purposes, like creating explicit content. Charges can range based on specifics, frequently involving trafficking or exploiting minors.
• 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 Saline 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 based on factors such as the age of the victim, the extent of force used, the relationship between the parties involved, and any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense derail your life. The Saline County, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers understand the seriousness of these allegations and will defend you against them. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

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

Penalties for a sex offense conviction in Saline County, MO might include:

• Prison Time: Based on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the severity of your offense, you could be facing a prison sentence ranging from several years to life imprisonment.
• Fines: Similar to many other criminal felony and misdemeanor charges, substantial fines and court costs could be imposed.
• 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 Saline County, 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 Saline County, MO area makes it difficult to restore your life even after serving your sentence.

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

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

Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in Saline County, MO

Our lawyers specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay current on changes in Saline County, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, making sure your defense is grounded in the state’s most recent legal standards.

Thorough Case Evaluation

An experienced Saline County, MO sex offense attorney meticulously examines all evidence against you, such as any witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build a sound defense strategy.

Safeguarding Your Rights in Saline County, MO

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

Strategic Defense Planning

Each case is distinct and requires a personalized defense plan. Whether it involves challenging the credibility of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea deals, our sex offense lawyers will craft a robust strategy tailored to your specific situation.

Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout Your Case in Saline County, 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 period of time can be incredibly stressful. Our compassionate Saline County, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal counsel and support, but also emotional assistance to help you and your family manage.

When you are accused of a sex offense in or around Saline County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the ideal sex offense lawyers in Saline County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable sex offense lawyers, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Saline County and beyond:

• Gun Crime Lawyer
• 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 Saline County, MO: Potential Defenses

If you’re facing a sex offense accusation in or around Saline County, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense lawyers are here to assist. It’s important to understand the potential defenses that might help you. Some common defense strategies our expert sex offense lawyers might employ include:

• Mistaken Identity: Our legal team will look to prove that you were not the individual responsible for the crime.
• Consent: We can present evidence showing that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity, supported by factual evidence and background investigation of the accuser.
• Alibi: Our lawyers can gather and present evidence proving that you were elsewhere when the crime occurred.
• False Allegations: We can show that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, including financial incentives, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.

Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Connect With the Leading Saline County, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Today

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

Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Saline County, MO immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.