Rape Defense Lawyer in O’Fallon, MO. Facing a rape accusation in O’Fallon, 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. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the O’Fallon, MO legal system.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our esteemed O’Fallon, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation 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 O’Fallon, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri
The penalties for rape charges in O’Fallon, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They 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 O’Fallon, MO, doing whatever it takes to fight for you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the help you need.
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. 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 circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties for any degree of rape in O’Fallon, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
- Having prior convictions for sexual offenses
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Rape Defense Lawyer in O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, MO. Things 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 have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the O’Fallon, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, unlike 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 O’Fallon, MO area.
- Strong Communication Abilities: Your attorney should be able to 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 that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation throughout the O’Fallon, MO area.
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 O’Fallon, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or near O’Fallon, MO, your first move should be 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.
Why you should hire our O’Fallon, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in O’Fallon, MO have a deep understanding 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 essential for crafting a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced attorneys conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine 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 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 minimizes the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in O’Fallon, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A O’Fallon, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
- Consent: In O’Fallon, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness statements.
- Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our knowledgeable 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 testimony that disputes the accuser’s account can be a strong defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to follow proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our O’Fallon, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you are facing a rape accusation in or around O’Fallon, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the ideal rape defense lawyer in O’Fallon, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for O’Fallon, MO residents:
Reach Out to an Expert O’Fallon, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape accusation in O’Fallon, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, seeking the expertise of a specialized attorney is the first essential step in safeguarding your future. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting robust defense strategies, an aggressive O’Fallon, 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 consultation in O’Fallon, MO.
