Rape Defense Lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Creve Coeur, 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. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Creve Coeur, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced Creve Coeur, MO rape defense lawyers right now 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 Creve Coeur, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
Facing rape charges in Creve Coeur, 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 they engage in sexual intercourse with another person 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 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 Creve Coeur, 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 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 under either degree of rape in Creve Coeur, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
Rape Defense Lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO: Key Attributes of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side
Given the severity of a rape accusation, hiring a knowledgable and persistent rape defense lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO is crucial. Important qualities to look for 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 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 Creve Coeur, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, as opposed to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Creve Coeur, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: Your attorney 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-obligation case reviews that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can give you the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Creve Coeur, MO.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or near Creve Coeur, MO, the first thing you should do is contact 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.
Reasons to hire our Creve Coeur, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Creve Coeur, MO possess extensive knowledge of sexual offense laws throughout Missouri and the legal nuances that come with these cases. They are well-versed in the statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements necessary to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, gather and scrutinize evidence, and 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 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 Creve Coeur, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Creve Coeur, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Creve Coeur, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to identify any errors 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 a strong 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 in any way, our Creve Coeur, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Creve Coeur, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the ideal rape defense lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Creve Coeur, MO residents:
Contact an Experienced Creve Coeur, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re accused of rape in Creve Coeur, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to forming effective defense strategies, an aggressive Creve Coeur, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome in your case.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Creve Coeur, MO.