Sex offense lawyers in Branson, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in Branson, 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 impacts, underscore the necessity of having an experienced and tenacious sex offense lawyer on your side.
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 Branson, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses in the Branson, MO Area
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in and around Branson, MO. It is crucial to understand the legal landscape when facing these charges. Additionally, the enduring shadow of doubt or shame that gets cast over your life due to even being accused of a sexual offense is enough to want to get this quickly resolved.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Branson, MO have an ideal blend of hands-on experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our exceptional record and over 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Branson, MO: Kinds of Sex Crimes
Missouri law classifies sex offenses into several categories, each with specific definitions and associated penalties. Here are some of the most common sex offenses as defined under Missouri Revised Statutes:
- Rape: Rape entails 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: The charge of sodomy involves 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 encompasses a range of abusive sexual behaviors, like unwanted touching or groping, which may not qualify as rape or sodomy but still involve exploitation and harm, and are criminal offenses.
- Statutory Rape: Statutory rape involves sexual intercourse with a minor under the age of consent, even if the minor appears to consent. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17, and engaging in sexual acts with a child 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 Branson, 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 crime entails producing, distributing, or possessing sexually explicit materials featuring minors. In Branson, 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 vary based on the situation, but often include either trafficking for sexual exploitation or the sexual exploitation of a minor.
- Sexual Contact With a Student: This offense usually involves sexual interactions between educators, school employees, or volunteers, and students in the same school district. Sexual contact with a student is viewed severely in Branson, MO, due to the inherent power imbalance and risk of student exploitation.
These sex offenses can result in different levels of penalties based on factors like the victim’s age, the extent of force used, the relationship between you and the victim, and the presence of any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense ruin your life. The Branson, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers recognize the seriousness of these charges and will provide a robust defense. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Taney County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Taney County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Branson, MO: Penalties for Convictions
The consequences of a sex offense conviction in Branson, 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 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 Branson, MO area.
- Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: A sex offense conviction in Branson, 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 Branson, MO area make it difficult to rebuild your life, even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Branson, 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 offer:
In-Depth Sex Offense Legal Expertise in Branson, MO
Our lawyers specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay informed about updates in Branson, 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 Branson, MO sex offense attorney carefully examines 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 Branson, MO
Making sure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Branson, MO. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will protect 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.
Strategic Defense Planning
Every case is different, requiring a tailored defense strategy. Whether it involves disputing 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 Branson, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers show genuine care 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 empathetic Branson, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal advice and support, but also offer emotional guidance to help you and your family manage.
When you are facing a sex offense charge in or around Branson, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal sex offense lawyers in Branson, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our seasoned sex offense lawyers, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Branson and beyond:
Sex Offense Lawyers in Branson, MO: Potential Defense Strategies
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation near Branson, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense lawyers are prepared 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 present evidence showing that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity, supported by factual evidence and background investigation of the accuser.
- Alibi: Our attorneys can establish that you were in a different location when the crime took place.
- False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, like financial incentives, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Contact the Top Branson, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
Being accused of a sex offense in Branson, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and overwhelming situation. However, with the right legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can safeguard your rights and your future, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Branson, MO right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation.