Rape Defense Lawyer in Portage Des Sioux, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Portage Des Sioux, 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. You need to hire a specialized rape defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the Portage Des Sioux, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our esteemed Portage Des Sioux, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and receive expert advice on your next steps.
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Rape Defense Lawyer in Portage Des Sioux, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Portage Des Sioux, 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 Portage Des Sioux, 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. 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 for either degree of rape in Portage Des Sioux, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- Having prior convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in Portage Des Sioux, MO: Key Attributes of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side
The gravity of a rape accusation makes hiring a knowledgable and tenacious rape defense lawyer in Portage Des Sioux, MO a necessity. Important qualities 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 achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Portage Des Sioux, MO.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared to 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 Portage Des Sioux, 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 provide free, no-obligation case reviews to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains professionalism can offer the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation in Portage Des Sioux, 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 Portage Des Sioux, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Portage Des Sioux, MO, the first thing you should do is 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 Portage Des Sioux, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Portage Des Sioux, 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 necessary to build a robust defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously 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 lessens the impact on your life.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Portage Des Sioux, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Portage Des Sioux, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte employs a variety of defense strategies, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This approach involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In Portage Des Sioux, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our skilled rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing 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 did not adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our Portage Des Sioux, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you are facing a rape accusation in or around Portage Des Sioux, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the ideal rape defense lawyer in Portage Des Sioux, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Portage Des Sioux, MO residents:

Contact an Experienced Portage Des Sioux, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re accused of rape in Portage Des Sioux, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and investigating the case to developing robust defense strategies, an aggressive Portage Des Sioux, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing 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 consultation in Portage Des Sioux, MO.

