Washington County, MO

Sex offense lawyers in Washington County, MO. Facing allegations or charges related to a sex offense in Washington County, 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 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 Washington County, MO: Comprehending Sex Offenses

Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in and around Washington County, MO. It is crucial to comprehend the legal landscape when 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 Washington County, MO possess a unique combination of hands-on experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and more than 275 reviews speak for themselves.

Sex Offense Lawyers in Washington County, 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 under 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 severe felony with potential 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 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: 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, but sexual misconduct with a minor is considered the most severe 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 Washington County, 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: 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 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 Washington County, MO, due to the power imbalance and the potential for exploiting the student.

These sex offenses can carry varying degrees of penalties depending on factors such as the age of the victim, the use and severity of force, the relationship between you and the victim, and any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense ruin your life. The Washington County, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers understand the seriousness of these charges and will defend you against them. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

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

Penalties of a sex offense conviction in Washington County, MO might include:

• Prison Time: Based on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the gravity of your offense, you could be facing a prison term of years or even life.
• Fines: You may be required to pay significant fines and court costs, similar to other criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
• Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: If you’re convicted of a sex offense in the Washington County, MO area, you will be required to register as a sex offender likely for the rest of your life. This can seriously affect your opportunities for employment and housing, as well as your personal relationships.
• Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: Such a conviction can tarnish your reputation and strain relationships with colleagues, romantic partners, family, and neighbors. The long-lasting or permanent nature of these convictions in the Washington County, MO area makes rebuilding your life challenging, even post-sentence.

Why You Need the Washington 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 skilled attorneys offer:

Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in Washington County, MO

Our legal experts specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay current on changes in Washington County, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, ensuring your defense is based on the most current legal standards in the state.

Thorough Case Evaluation

An experienced Washington County, MO sex offense attorney carefully scrutinizes all evidence against you, such as witness statements, police reports, and forensic information, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build a sound defense strategy.

Defending Your Rights in Washington County, MO

Ensuring your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Washington County, MO. Our seasoned sex offense lawyers will defend your rights every step of the way – 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

Every case is unique and demands a customized defense strategy. Whether it involves challenging the credibility 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 Your Case in Washington County, MO

The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers show genuine concern for clients’ well-being and they take the time to understand your side of the story. This can be an incredibly stressful time in your life. Our compassionate Washington County, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal counsel and support, but also offer emotional guidance to help you and your family cope.

When you’re accused of a sex offense in or around Washington County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best sex offense lawyers in Washington County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned sex offense lawyers, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Washington County 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 Washington County, MO: Potential Defenses

If you’re facing a sex offense accusation in or around Washington 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 use include:

• Mistaken Identity: Our attorneys 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 took place.
• False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, including financial gain, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.

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

Facing sex offense charges in Washington County, MO Washington County, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and overwhelming experience. However, with skilled legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can safeguard your rights and future, and strive for the best possible outcome.

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