Rape Defense Lawyer Chesterfield, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Chesterfield, 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. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Chesterfield, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable Chesterfield, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review and get expert guidance on how to proceed.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

The penalties for rape charges in Chesterfield, 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 they engage in sexual intercourse with another person who is incapacitated, incapable of consent, or lacks the capacity to consent, or by the use of 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. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Chesterfield, 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.

Rape in the Second Degree

According to RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree involves engaging in sexual intercourse with another person while knowing that they do not consent. This offense is classified as 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 for either degree of rape in Chesterfield, 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 Chesterfield, 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 Chesterfield, 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 achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Chesterfield, MO area and beyond.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Chesterfield, MO area.
• Excellent 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 provide free, no-strings-attached consultations to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & 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 dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Chesterfield, MO.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or around Chesterfield, MO, the first thing you should do is 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 Chesterfield, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Chesterfield, 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 requirements necessary to build a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned 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.
• 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 Chesterfield, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

A Chesterfield, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:

• Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
• Consent: In Chesterfield, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our knowledgeable 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 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 conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Chesterfield, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.

When you’re accused of rape in or around Chesterfield, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in Chesterfield, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Chesterfield and beyond:

• Drivers License Reinstatement Attorney
• Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
• Weapons Crime Attorney

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

Facing a rape accusation in Chesterfield, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to developing strong defense strategies, a proactive Chesterfield, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Chesterfield, MO.