Rape Defense Lawyer Scott County, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Scott County, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Scott County, 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 Scott County, MO legal system.

You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our experienced Scott 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.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Scott County, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

The penalties for rape charges in Scott County, MO are severe and can vary depending on the specifics of your case. They 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 he or she physically or mentally impaired so as to be incapable of making an informed consent to sexual intercourse.

The penalty for this offense ranges from 5 years to life imprisonment. More severe charges carry mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in Scott County, 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 deserve.

Rape in the Second Degree

According to RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree involves engaging in sexual intercourse with another person while knowing that they do not 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 under either degree of rape in Scott County, MO, including but not limited to:

• Use of a deadly weapon
• Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
• Previous convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in Scott County, MO: Qualities of an Effective Attorney to Have on Your Side

Given the severity of a rape accusation, hiring a knowledgable and persistent rape defense lawyer in Scott County, MO is crucial. Important qualities to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven Track Record: It is vital to choose a lawyer with a proven history of successfully handling rape defense cases. Their previous successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Scott County, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies tailored to these types of 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 Scott County, MO area.
• Excellent 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 offer free, no-obligation case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. A compassionate attorney who upholds professionalism can offer the support and confidence you need during this tough time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Scott County, MO.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Scott County, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around Scott 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 Scott County, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Scott 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 statutes, precedents, and procedural intricacies necessary to build a robust defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, gather and scrutinize 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 Scott County, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte

A Scott County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:

• Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This defense strategy involves examining the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Scott County, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This can include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
• Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced rape defense lawyer will work with a network of forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Alibi and Witness Testimony: Providing an alibi or witness evidence that disputes the accuser’s account can be an effective defense strategy.
• Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution failed to adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Scott County, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you are accused of rape in or around Scott County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best rape defense lawyer in Scott County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Scott County, MO residents:

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

Contact an Experienced Scott County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape accusation in Scott 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 thoroughly investigating the case to crafting effective defense strategies, a proactive Scott County, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Scott County, MO.