Rape Defense Lawyer in Wayne County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Wayne 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. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the Wayne County, MO legal system.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our knowledgeable Wayne County, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation 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 …
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 Wayne County, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
Facing rape charges in Wayne 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 he or she 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 Wayne 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.
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. This offense is classified as 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 more severe penalties for either degree of rape in Wayne 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
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Rape Defense Lawyer in Wayne County, MO: Qualities 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 Wayne County, MO a necessity. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Proven Track Record: You should look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling rape defense cases just like yours. Their previous successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Wayne County, MO.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Wayne County, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: Your lawyer 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 offer free, no-obligation case reviews that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Wayne County, MO area.
Wayne County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Wayne County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Wayne County, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Wayne County, MO, the first step you should take is to call 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 Wayne County, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Wayne 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 strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge 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 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. - 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 Wayne County, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Wayne County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Wayne County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Providing an alibi or witness testimony that contradicts the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not adhere to proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Wayne County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you’re accused of rape in or around Wayne County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the leading rape defense lawyer in Wayne County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Wayne County and beyond:
Get in Touch With a Skilled Wayne County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
Facing a rape accusation in Wayne County, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and investigating the case to forming robust defense strategies, a proactive Wayne 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 Wayne County, MO.
