Rape Defense Lawyer Des Peres, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Des Peres, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Des Peres, 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 Des Peres, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our knowledgeable Des Peres, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and receive expert advice on your next steps.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Des Peres, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

Facing rape charges in Des Peres, MO comes with serious consequences that depend on the details of your case. These penalties 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 by the use of 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. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Des Peres, MO, fighting tirelessly for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you deserve.

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. 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 either degree of rape in Des Peres, 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 Des Peres, 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 Des Peres, MO a necessity. Things 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 have more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Des Peres, 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 Des Peres, MO area.
• Strong Communication Abilities: Your attorney 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-strings-attached case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in Des Peres, MO.

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

If you have been charged with rape in or near Des Peres, 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.

Reasons to hire our Des Peres, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Des Peres, 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 essential for crafting a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will ensure 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 Des Peres, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte

A Des Peres, 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 examining the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
• Consent: In Des Peres, MO cases where consent is disputed, 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.
• Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our experienced rape defense lawyer partners 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 disputes the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to adhere to proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Des Peres, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.

When you are accused of rape in or around Des Peres, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best rape defense lawyer in Des Peres, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Des Peres, MO residents:

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

Contact an Experienced Des Peres, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re accused of rape in Des Peres, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to developing robust defense strategies, an assertive Des Peres, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome in your case.

Reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Des Peres, MO.