Rape Defense Lawyer in Platte County, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Platte County, 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 Platte County, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our knowledgeable Platte County, 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.
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 Platte County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Platte County, 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 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 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 Platte County, 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 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 offense is classified as 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 enhanced penalties for either degree of rape in Platte County, 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 Platte County, 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 Platte County, 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 boast over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Platte County, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on 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 specializes in the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Platte County, 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 that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who maintains 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 Platte County, MO area.
Platte County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Platte County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Platte County, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Platte County, MO, your first move should be 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.
Reasons to hire our Platte County, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Platte County, 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 relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural intricacies necessary to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers conduct thorough investigations, gather and examine evidence, and rigorously 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. - 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 minimizes the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Platte County, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Platte County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
- Consent: In Platte County, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Alibi and Witness Testimony: 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 did not adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Platte County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around Platte County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in Platte County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Platte County and beyond:
Reach Out to an Expert Platte County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately
If you are facing a rape accusation in Platte County, 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 investigating the case to developing strong defense strategies, a proactive Platte County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Platte County, MO.
