Rape Defense Lawyer in Shelby County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Shelby County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, this is probably the most daunting and distressing time of your life. The stakes are incredibly high, with possible long-term – if not permanent – consequences including imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Shelby County, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our experienced Shelby County, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review and get expert guidance on how to proceed.
Legal Videos
What if the Accusation Is Connected to Child Custody?
What if the Accusation Is Connected to Child Custody? Attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
How Can a Defense Lawyer Prove an Allegation is False?
How Can a Defense Lawyer Prove an Allegation is False? Combs Waterkotte attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
What if the Accusation is Retaliation or Revenge?
What if the Accusation is Retaliation or Revenge? Attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
What if the Allegation Comes From a Breakup or Divorce?
What if the Allegation Comes From a Breakup or Divorce? Combs Waterkotte attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
Can Contacting the Accuser Hurt My Case?
Can Contacting the Accuser Hurt My Case? Attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual …
Can I Lose Professional Licenses Due to Sex Crime Allegations?
Can I Lose Professional Licenses Due to Sex Crime Allegations? Combs Waterkotte attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
What if the Accusation Is Connected to Child Custody?
What if the Accusation Is Connected to Child Custody? Attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
How Can a Defense Lawyer Prove an Allegation is False?
How Can a Defense Lawyer Prove an Allegation is False? Combs Waterkotte attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
What if the Accusation is Retaliation or Revenge?
What if the Accusation is Retaliation or Revenge? Attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
What if the Allegation Comes From a Breakup or Divorce?
What if the Allegation Comes From a Breakup or Divorce? Combs Waterkotte attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
Can Contacting the Accuser Hurt My Case?
Can Contacting the Accuser Hurt My Case? Attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual …
Can I Lose Professional Licenses Due to Sex Crime Allegations?
Can I Lose Professional Licenses Due to Sex Crime Allegations? Combs Waterkotte attorneys Christopher Combs and Joshua Boardman discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges …
Rape Defense Lawyer in Shelby County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Shelby County, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties include:
Rape in the First Degree
As defined by Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030, rape in the first degree occurs when an individual has sexual intercourse with someone 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 penalty for this offense ranges from 5 years to life imprisonment. More severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Shelby County, MO, fighting tirelessly 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. This crime is a class C felony, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain factors can lead to enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in Shelby County, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
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Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
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Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
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Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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Rape Defense Lawyer in Shelby County, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
Given the severity of a rape accusation, hiring a knowledgable and persistent rape defense lawyer in Shelby County, MO is crucial. Things to look for in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Track Record: You should look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling rape defense cases just like yours. Their past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have over 100 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Shelby County, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Shelby County, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: Your lawyer should be able to clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, making sure 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: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can give you the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation throughout the Shelby County, MO area.
Shelby County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Shelby County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Shelby County, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or near Shelby County, MO, the first thing you should do is contact a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte right away. Our attorneys are available 24/7 by calling (314) 900-HELP or reaching out online to discuss the specifics of your case.
Reasons to hire our Shelby County, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Shelby County, MO possess extensive knowledge of sexual offense laws throughout Missouri and the legal nuances that come with these cases. They are well-versed in the statutes, precedents, and procedural intricacies essential for crafting a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and rigorously 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 going to trial isn’t the best option for you, our adept rape defense 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 Shelby County, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Shelby County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Shelby 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, past relationship history, or witness statements.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our skilled rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness testimony that disputes the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Shelby County, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you’re accused of rape in or around Shelby County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading rape defense lawyer in Shelby County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Shelby County and beyond:
Contact an Experienced Shelby County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
Facing a rape accusation in Shelby County, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and investigating the case to crafting strong defense strategies, a proactive Shelby County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Shelby County, MO.
