Rape Defense Lawyer Ladue, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Ladue, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Ladue, 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 Ladue, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our esteemed Ladue, 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 Ladue, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

The penalties for rape charges in Ladue, 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 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 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 Ladue, 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 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 either degree of rape in Ladue, 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 Ladue, MO: Qualities 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 Ladue, MO. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Track Record: It is vital to choose a lawyer with a proven history of successfully handling rape defense cases. Their past successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Ladue, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Ladue, MO area.
• Strong Communication Abilities: Your lawyer should 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-obligation consultations to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can give you the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Ladue, MO area.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Ladue, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or around Ladue, 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 Ladue, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Ladue, 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 intricacies 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 protecting you from 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 Ladue, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte

A Ladue, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:

• Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
• Consent: In Ladue, 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, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our experienced rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness evidence that disputes the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Ladue, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.

When you’re accused of rape in or around Ladue, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading rape defense lawyer in Ladue, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Ladue and beyond:

• Weapons Crime Attorney
• DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
• Violent Crime Lawyer

Reach Out to an Expert Ladue, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re accused of rape in Ladue, 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 forming strong defense strategies, an assertive Ladue, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome.

Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Ladue, MO.