Rape Defense Lawyer Ste. Genevieve, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Ste. Genevieve, 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 an irreparable stigma 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 Ste. Genevieve, MO legal system.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our experienced Ste. Genevieve, MO rape defense lawyers right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and get expert guidance on how to proceed.

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

According to Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030, an individual commits rape in the first degree if they engage in sexual intercourse with another person who is incapacitated, incapable of consent, or lacks the capacity to consent, or through 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. 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

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, carrying 3-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances can lead to more severe penalties for 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
• Having prior convictions for sexual offenses

Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, 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 Ste. Genevieve, MO a necessity. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Track Record: Seek out a lawyer with a demonstrated history of handling rape defense cases similar to yours. Their past successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in Ste. Genevieve, MO.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will possess more profound insights and strategies tailored to these types of cases, unlike a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that specializes in defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Ste. Genevieve, MO area.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Your lawyer 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 that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Ste. Genevieve, MO.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte

If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Ste. Genevieve, 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.

Reasons to hire our Ste. Genevieve, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Ste. Genevieve, MO possess extensive knowledge 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 requirements essential for crafting a robust defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often rely on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case.
• 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 protecting you from self-incrimination.
• Effective Negotiation:
  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 minimizes the impact on your life.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

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

• Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser: This defense strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or credibility concerns.
• Consent: In Ste. Genevieve, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony that demonstrate the encounter was consensual. This might include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness statements.
• Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our knowledgeable 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 disputes the accuser’s account can be a strong 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 facing a rape accusation in or around Ste. Genevieve, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the best rape defense lawyer in Ste. Genevieve, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Ste. Genevieve and beyond:

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

Contact an Experienced Ste. Genevieve, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Immediately

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 investigating the case to developing strong defense strategies, a proactive Ste. Genevieve, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.

Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Ste. Genevieve, MO.