Rape Defense Lawyer in Johnson County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Johnson County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you are undoubtedly going through one of the most challenging times of your life. The potential consequences are severe, including imprisonment, hefty fines, and an irreparable stigma on your criminal record. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Johnson County, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable Johnson County, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review to discuss your situation and receive expert advice on your next steps.
Legal Videos

What Happens When You Are Wrongfully Accused of a Sex Crime?
What happens when you are wrongfully accused of a sex crime? Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Right. And you'll see sometimes, and I've had cases, where you had two individuals …

Too Intoxicated to Give Consent?
Missouri criminal defense lawyers Steven Waterkotte and Chris Combs talk about alleged victims being too intoxicated to give consent. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Most people …

Criminal Lawyer Talks About Representing Sex Criminals
Real Criminal Defense Lawyer talks about representing sex criminals. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: I always say probably what the public views as the most vile or despicable …

Your Word Against Theirs in Court
Are just allegations enough to get charged with a crime? When it's your word against theirs in court. Episode Transcript Chris Combs: And allegations alone will do it. Steve hit on this …

What Happens When You Are Charged With a Child Sex Crime?
What happens when you are charged with a child sex crime? Episode Transcript Chris Combs: If you're a tier three sex offender, you can only have approved electronic devices. You have to …
Rape Defense Lawyer in Johnson County, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in Johnson County, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They include:
Rape in the First Degree
According to Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030, an individual commits rape in the first degree if he or she has sexual intercourse with another individual who is incapacitated, incapable of consent, or lacks the capacity to consent, or through forcible compulsion – which includes the use of a substance administered without that person’s knowledge or consent, rendering them physically or mentally impaired so as to be incapable of making an informed consent to sexual intercourse.
The penalties for this crime range from 5 years to life imprisonment, with more severe charges carrying mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Johnson County, MO, doing whatever it takes to fight for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need and deserve.
Rape in the Second Degree
As defined by RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree occurs when an individual knowingly engages in sexual intercourse without the other person’s consent. The penalty is a class C felony, which can result in a person sentence ranging from 3 to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in Johnson County, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- Having prior convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in Johnson County, MO: Key Attributes of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side
The gravity of a rape accusation makes hiring a knowledgable and tenacious rape defense lawyer in Johnson County, MO a necessity. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Proven Track Record: Seek out a lawyer with a demonstrated history of handling rape defense cases similar to yours. Their past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Johnson County, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Johnson County, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Abilities: Your attorney should be able to clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, ensuring you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers provide free, no-strings-attached consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in Johnson County, MO.
Johnson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Johnson County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Johnson County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or near Johnson County, MO, your first move should be to contact a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte immediately. Our attorneys are available 24/7 by calling (314) 900-HELP or reaching out online to discuss the specifics of your case.
Why you should hire our Johnson County, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Johnson County, MO have an extensive knowledge of sexual offense laws throughout Missouri and the legal nuances that come with these cases. They are proficient in the statutes, precedents, and procedural intricacies necessary to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys perform comprehensive investigations, gather and examine evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s assertions. - Protection of Rights:
A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will vigilantly protect your constitutional rights throughout the legal process. This includes preventing unlawful searches and seizures, ensuring you receive a fair trial, and protecting you from self-incrimination. - Effective Negotiation:
If a trial is not in your best interest, our skilled rape defense legal team can negotiate with the prosecution to reduce charges or secure a plea deal that minimizes the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Johnson County, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Johnson County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
- Consent: In Johnson County, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness testimony that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our Johnson County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Johnson County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the ideal rape defense lawyer in Johnson County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Johnson County, MO residents:

Reach Out to an Expert Johnson County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
If you’re accused of rape in Johnson County, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to forming effective defense strategies, a proactive Johnson County, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Johnson County, MO.

