Rape Defense Lawyer Maryville, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Maryville, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Maryville, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you are undoubtedly going through one of the most challenging times of your life. The potential consequences are severe, including imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the Maryville, MO legal system.

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

The penalties for rape charges in Maryville, 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 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 Maryville, 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, punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain factors can lead to more severe penalties under either degree of rape in Maryville, MO, including but not limited to:

• Use of a deadly weapon
• Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
• Having prior convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in Maryville, 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 Maryville, MO is crucial. Important qualities 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 successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Maryville, MO area and beyond.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, as opposed to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Maryville, MO area.
• Excellent Communication Abilities: Your lawyer should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, ensuring you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers offer free, no-strings-attached consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Maryville, MO area.

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

If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Maryville, MO, the first step you should take is to contact a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte right away. 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 Maryville, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Maryville, MO have an extensive knowledge 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 requirements necessary to build a robust defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys 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 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 Maryville, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte

A Maryville, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:

• Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Maryville, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our skilled rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness testimony that contradicts 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, our Maryville, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you are accused of rape in or around Maryville, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading rape defense lawyer in Maryville, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Maryville, MO residents:

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

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

If you’re accused of rape in Maryville, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting strong defense strategies, an assertive Maryville, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Maryville, MO.