Rape Defense Lawyer in Meramec Township, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Meramec Township, 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. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the Meramec Township, MO legal system.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our esteemed Meramec Township, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review and get expert guidance on how to proceed.
Legal Videos
What Happens When You Are Wrongfully Accused of a Sex Crime?
What happens when you are wrongfully accused of a sex crime? Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Right. And you'll see sometimes, and I've had cases, where you had two individuals …
Too Intoxicated to Give Consent?
Missouri criminal defense lawyers Steven Waterkotte and Chris Combs talk about alleged victims being too intoxicated to give consent. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Most people …
Criminal Lawyer Talks About Representing Sex Criminals
Real Criminal Defense Lawyer talks about representing sex criminals. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: I always say probably what the public views as the most vile or despicable …
Your Word Against Theirs in Court
Are just allegations enough to get charged with a crime? When it's your word against theirs in court. Episode Transcript Chris Combs: And allegations alone will do it. Steve hit on this …
What Happens When You Are Charged With a Child Sex Crime?
What happens when you are charged with a child sex crime? Episode Transcript Chris Combs: If you're a tier three sex offender, you can only have approved electronic devices. You have to …
What Happens When You Are Wrongfully Accused of a Sex Crime?
What happens when you are wrongfully accused of a sex crime? Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Right. And you'll see sometimes, and I've had cases, where you had two individuals …
Too Intoxicated to Give Consent?
Missouri criminal defense lawyers Steven Waterkotte and Chris Combs talk about alleged victims being too intoxicated to give consent. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: Most people …
Criminal Lawyer Talks About Representing Sex Criminals
Real Criminal Defense Lawyer talks about representing sex criminals. Episode Transcript Steve Waterkotte: I always say probably what the public views as the most vile or despicable …
Your Word Against Theirs in Court
Are just allegations enough to get charged with a crime? When it's your word against theirs in court. Episode Transcript Chris Combs: And allegations alone will do it. Steve hit on this …
What Happens When You Are Charged With a Child Sex Crime?
What happens when you are charged with a child sex crime? Episode Transcript Chris Combs: If you're a tier three sex offender, you can only have approved electronic devices. You have to …
Rape Defense Lawyer in Meramec Township, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
Facing rape charges in Meramec Township, 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 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 ranges from 5 years to life imprisonment. 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 Meramec Township, 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
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. 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 under either degree of rape in Meramec Township, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
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Rape Defense Lawyer in Meramec Township, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
Given the severity of a rape accusation, hiring a knowledgable and persistent rape defense lawyer in Meramec Township, MO is crucial. 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 previous 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 throughout the Meramec Township, MO area.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Meramec Township, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: 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 provide free, no-obligation case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in Meramec Township, MO.
St. Charles County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Charles County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Meramec Township, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Meramec Township, MO, your first move should be to 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 Meramec Township, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Meramec Township, MO have an 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 essential for crafting a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers conduct thorough investigations, gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case. - 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 Meramec Township, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Meramec Township, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This approach involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Meramec Township, 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, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing 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 conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Meramec Township, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you are accused of rape in or around Meramec Township, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in Meramec Township, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Meramec Township and beyond:
Get in Touch With a Skilled Meramec Township, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
If you’re accused of rape in Meramec Township, 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 strong defense strategies, an aggressive Meramec Township, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Meramec Township, MO.
