Rape Defense Lawyer Overland, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Overland, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Overland, 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. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Overland, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our esteemed Overland, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review and get expert guidance on how to proceed.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Overland, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?

Facing rape charges in Overland, 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 by the use of forcible compulsion – which includes the use of a substance administered without that person’s knowledge or consent, rendering them 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. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Overland, 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

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, which can result in a person sentence ranging from 3 to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in Overland, 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 Overland, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side

The gravity of a rape accusation makes hiring a knowledgable and tenacious rape defense lawyer in Overland, MO a necessity. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven Track Record: Seek out a lawyer with a demonstrated history of handling rape defense cases similar to yours. Their past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have over 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Overland, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared 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 Overland, MO area.
• Strong Communication Skills: 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 offer free, no-strings-attached consultations that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
• Compassion & 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 difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation throughout the Overland, MO area.

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

If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Overland, MO, the first step you should take is 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.

Why you should hire our Overland, MO attorneys:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Overland, 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 needed to build a strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys perform comprehensive investigations, gather and examine 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 safeguarding against self-incrimination.
• Negotiation Skills:
  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 lessens the impact on your life.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Overland, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

A Overland, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:

• Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Overland, 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 testimony.
• Analyzing 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: Presenting 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 did not follow proper procedures, such as conducting illegal searches or violating your rights in any way, our Overland, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.

When you are accused of rape in or around Overland, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best rape defense lawyer in Overland, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Overland and beyond:

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

Get in Touch With a Skilled Overland, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape accusation in Overland, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, seeking the expertise of a specialized attorney is the first essential step in safeguarding your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to crafting effective defense strategies, an aggressive Overland, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome in your case.

Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Overland, MO.