Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Ste. Genevieve, 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 Ste. Genevieve, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Reach out to one of our esteemed Ste. Genevieve, MO rape defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review to discuss your situation and receive expert advice on your next steps.
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 …
Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Ste. Genevieve, 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 by the use of 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 Ste. Genevieve, 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
RSMo. § 566.031 qualifies rape in the second degree as sexual intercourse with another individual knowing that he or she does so without that person’s consent. The penalty is a class C felony, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain factors can lead to enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in Ste. Genevieve, 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 Ste. Genevieve, MO: Essential Qualites for an Effective Attorney on Your Side
The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO. 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 previous successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Ste. Genevieve, MO.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on 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 specializes in the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Ste. Genevieve, MO area.
- Strong Communication Abilities: Your attorney 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-strings-attached case reviews that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing 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 committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Ste. Genevieve, MO.
Ste. Genevieve County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Ste. Genevieve County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or near Ste. Genevieve, MO, the first step you should take is 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.
Reasons to hire our Ste. Genevieve, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Ste. Genevieve, MO have a deep understanding of sexual offense laws throughout Missouri and the legal nuances that come with these cases. They are proficient in the relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural intricacies needed 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 scrutinize 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 Ste. Genevieve, MO: Key Defense Strategies Used by Combs Waterkotte
A Ste. Genevieve, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This approach involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
- Consent: In Ste. Genevieve, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, past relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- 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 failed to adhere to proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Ste. Genevieve, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you’re accused of rape in or around Ste. Genevieve, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the best rape defense lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Ste. Genevieve and beyond:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans

Get in Touch With a Skilled Ste. Genevieve, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
Facing a rape accusation in Ste. Genevieve, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to developing robust defense strategies, an assertive Ste. Genevieve, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome in your case.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free case review in Ste. Genevieve, MO.

