Rape Defense Lawyer in Pemiscot County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Pemiscot 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 an irreparable stigma on your criminal record. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the Pemiscot County, MO legal system.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced Pemiscot County, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and get expert guidance on how to proceed.
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 Pemiscot County, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
Facing rape charges in Pemiscot County, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties 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 Pemiscot County, 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
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, punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in Pemiscot County, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
- Having prior convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in Pemiscot County, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
The gravity of a rape accusation makes hiring a knowledgable and tenacious rape defense lawyer in Pemiscot 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 successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Pemiscot 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, 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 Pemiscot County, MO area.
- Excellent 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 offer free, no-strings-attached consultations that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can give you the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Pemiscot County, MO area.
Pemiscot County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Pemiscot County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Pemiscot County, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or near Pemiscot 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 Pemiscot County, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Pemiscot County, MO possess 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 needed to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and 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 minimizes the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Pemiscot County, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Pemiscot County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
- Consent: In Pemiscot County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness statements.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. 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: Providing an alibi or witness evidence that disputes the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our Pemiscot County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you are accused of rape in or around Pemiscot County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading rape defense lawyer in Pemiscot County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Pemiscot County and beyond:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans

Get in Touch With a Skilled Pemiscot County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re accused of rape in Pemiscot 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 thoroughly investigating the case to developing effective defense strategies, a proactive Pemiscot County, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Pemiscot County, MO.

