Rape Defense Lawyer in Gladstone, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Gladstone, MO or anywhere else in Missouri is incredibly overwhelming. The stakes are high, with potential penalties including lengthy imprisonment, heavy fines, and a lasting impact on your reputation and 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 Gladstone, MO legal system.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our experienced Gladstone, MO rape defense lawyers right now 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 …
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 Gladstone, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
The penalties for rape charges in Gladstone, 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 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. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Gladstone, MO, advocating for you every step of the way. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need and 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 any degree of rape in Gladstone, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
-
Protect Your Life
![Image]()
Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
Reach Out Now
-
Know Your Next Steps
![Image]()
Know Your Next Steps
Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
Stay Informed
-
Title
![Image]()
Ready to Talk to an Expert?
Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
Get Started
Rape Defense Lawyer in Gladstone, 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 Gladstone, MO a necessity. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & Proven Track Record: It is vital to choose a lawyer with a proven history of successfully handling rape defense cases. 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 throughout the Gladstone, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in 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 specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Gladstone, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Skills: Your lawyer should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, ensuring you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers provide free, no-obligation consultations to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Gladstone, MO.
Clay County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Clay County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Gladstone, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Gladstone, MO, your first move should be to call a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte now. 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 Gladstone, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Gladstone, 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 relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements necessary to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case. - Protection of Rights:
A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process. This includes preventing unlawful searches and seizures, ensuring you receive a fair trial, and safeguarding against 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 lessens the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Gladstone, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Gladstone, 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 issues.
- Consent: In Gladstone, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that 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 disputes 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 in any way, our Gladstone, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Gladstone, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the ideal rape defense lawyer in Gladstone, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Gladstone and beyond:
Contact an Experienced Gladstone, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
Facing a rape accusation in Gladstone, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and investigating the case to forming strong defense strategies, an aggressive Gladstone, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Gladstone, MO.
