Rape Defense Lawyer in Kansas City, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our experienced Kansas City, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review and get expert guidance on how to proceed.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Kansas City, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
The penalties for rape charges in Kansas City, 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 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 Kansas City, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you deserve.
Rape in the Second Degree
RSMo. § 566.031 qualifies rape in the second degree as sexual intercourse with another individual knowing that he or she does so without that person’s consent. The penalty is a class C felony, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances can lead to more severe penalties for either degree of rape in Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, MO a necessity. Things to look for in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & 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 boast more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Kansas City, MO.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, as opposed to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Kansas City, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: Your lawyer should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, making sure you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers offer free, no-obligation consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can give you the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Kansas City, MO.
Jackson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jackson County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Kansas City, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Kansas City, MO, the first step you should take is to 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.
Why you should hire our Kansas City, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Kansas City, 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 attorneys perform comprehensive investigations, gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case. - 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. - Negotiation Skills:
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 lessens the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Kansas City, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Kansas City, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This approach involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
- Consent: In Kansas City, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, previous 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 contradicts the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not follow proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Kansas City, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you’re accused of rape in or around Kansas City, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in Kansas City, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Kansas City, MO residents:
- Sex Crimes Lawyer
- Drivers License Reinstatement Attorney
- Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
- Violent Crimes Lawyer
- Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
- Weapons Crime Attorney
Contact an Experienced Kansas City, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
If you are facing a rape accusation in Kansas City, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, seeking the expertise of a specialized attorney is the first essential step in safeguarding your future. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to developing effective defense strategies, a proactive Kansas City, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome in your case.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Kansas City, MO.