University City, MO

Sex offense lawyers in University City, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in University City, 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 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 University City, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses

Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences, particularly in University City, 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 University City, MO possess a unique combination of hands-on experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our exceptional record and over 275 reviews speak for themselves.

Sex Offense Lawyers in University City, MO: Types of Sex Crimes

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 outlined in the Missouri Revised Statutes:

• Rape: Rape includes non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration, often accompanied by force, threats, or incapacitation of the victim. As defined in RSMo. § 566.030, rape is a serious felony offense with prison sentences ranging from 5 years to life.
• Sodomy: The charge of sodomy involves 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 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 University City, 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 vary based on the situation, but frequently 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 University City, 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 carry varying degrees of penalties based on factors such as the age of the victim, the use and degree of force, the nature of the relationship between the accused and the victim, and whether any aggravating circumstances are present. Don’t let a sex offense ruin your life. The University City, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers recognize the seriousness of these charges and are ready to defend you. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

Sex Offense Lawyers in University City, MO: Penalties for Convictions

The consequences of a sex offense conviction in University City, MO may include:

• Prison Time: Depending on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the gravity of the offense, you could be looking at a prison term of years or even life.
• 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 University City, MO area.
• Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: A sex offense conviction in University City, 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 University City, MO area make it difficult to rebuild your life, even after serving your sentence.

Why You Need the University City, 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 skilled attorneys offer:

Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in University City, MO

Our attorneys specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay informed about updates in University City, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, ensuring your defense is based on the state’s most recent legal standards.

Thorough Case Evaluation

A knowledgeable University City, MO sex offense lawyer carefully scrutinizes all evidence against you, such as witness statements, police reports, and forensic information, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and formulate a strong defense strategy.

Protecting Your Rights in University City, MO

Maintaining your constitutional rights during the University City, MO legal process is critical. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will protect your rights at every stage – from interrogations and investigations to court proceedings if necessary. Give our legal team a call 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 validity of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea bargains, our sex offense lawyers will craft a robust strategy tailored to your specific situation.

Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout Your Case in University City, MO

The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers show genuine concern for clients’ well-being and make an effort to understand your story. This can be an extremely stressful period in your life. Our compassionate University City, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal counsel and support, but also emotional guidance which can help you and your family cope.

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

• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
• 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 University City, MO: Possible Defenses

If you’re facing a sex offense accusation in or around University City, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense attorneys are here to assist. Understanding the possible defenses that could be employed in your case is crucial. Some common defense strategies our expert sex offense lawyers might employ include:

• Mistaken Identity: Our lawyers will look to prove that you were not the individual responsible for the 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 gather and present evidence proving that you were elsewhere 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? Contact the Top University City, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Today

Being accused of a sex offense in University City, 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 defend your rights and your future, and work toward the best possible outcome.

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