Rape Defense Lawyer in Kickapoo, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Kickapoo, 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 Kickapoo, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced Kickapoo, 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 Kickapoo, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
Facing rape charges in Kickapoo, 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 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 penalty for this offense ranges from 5 years to life imprisonment. More severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Kickapoo, MO, fighting tirelessly 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
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 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 for any degree of rape in Kickapoo, 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 Kickapoo, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in Kickapoo, MO. 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 successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Kickapoo, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have more profound 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 Kickapoo, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Abilities: 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-strings-attached case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can give you the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Kickapoo, MO.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Kickapoo, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Kickapoo, MO, your first move should be 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.
Reasons to hire our Kickapoo, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Kickapoo, 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 statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements needed to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers conduct thorough investigations, 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 protecting you from 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 minimizes the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Kickapoo, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Kickapoo, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This approach involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In Kickapoo, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness statements.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Testimony: Presenting an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be an effective 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 Kickapoo, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Kickapoo, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading rape defense lawyer in Kickapoo, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Kickapoo and beyond:
- Assault Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
Reach Out to an Expert Kickapoo, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re accused of rape in Kickapoo, 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 developing robust defense strategies, an assertive Kickapoo, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.
Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Kickapoo, MO.