Rape Defense Lawyer Benton, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Benton, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Benton, 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 Benton, MO legal system.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed Benton, 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.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Benton, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

The penalties for rape charges in Benton, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They 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 is anywhere from 5 years to life imprisonment. Some more severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Benton, MO, fighting tirelessly 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, which can result in a person sentence ranging from 3 to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties for any degree of rape in Benton, 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 Benton, 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 Benton, 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 have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Benton, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Benton, MO area.
• Strong Communication Skills: Your attorney 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-obligation case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Benton, MO area.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Benton, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte

If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Benton, MO, the first thing you should do is 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.

Reasons to hire our Benton, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Benton, MO have a deep understanding 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 robust defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure that your constitutional rights are protected 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 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 Benton, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

A Benton, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:

• Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
• Consent: In Benton, 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, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our skilled rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting 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 failed to follow proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our Benton, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Benton, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in Benton, 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 staff offers expertise in the following areas for Benton, MO residents:

• Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
• Weapons Crime Attorney
• DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer

Contact an Experienced Benton, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately

Facing a rape accusation in Benton, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and investigating the case to developing robust defense strategies, an assertive Benton, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.

Reach out to Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Benton, MO.