Rape Defense Lawyer in Carrollton, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Carrollton, 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. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Carrollton, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed Carrollton, 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.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Carrollton, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Carrollton, 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 can involve administering a substance without the person’s knowledge or consent, impairing their ability to make an informed decision.
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 Carrollton, 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 and 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. This crime 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 under either degree of rape in Carrollton, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
Rape Defense Lawyer in Carrollton, MO: Key Attributes of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side
The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in Carrollton, MO. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:
- Experience & 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 over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Carrollton, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of 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 Carrollton, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Abilities: 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 offer free, no-strings-attached consultations to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Carrollton, MO.
Carroll County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Carroll County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Carrollton, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Carrollton, MO, the first step you should take is to call 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 Carrollton, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Carrollton, 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 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 perform comprehensive investigations, gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s assertions. - 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 safeguarding against 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 Carrollton, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Carrollton, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Carrollton, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our skilled 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 Testimony: Providing 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 adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Carrollton, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Carrollton, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the ideal rape defense lawyer in Carrollton, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Carrollton, MO residents:
Get in Touch With a Skilled Carrollton, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re accused of rape in Carrollton, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From protecting your rights and investigating the case to forming robust defense strategies, an aggressive Carrollton, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome in your case.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Carrollton, MO.