Rape Defense Lawyer in Union, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Union, 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. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the Union, MO legal system.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our knowledgeable Union, 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.
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 Union, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Union, 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 penalties for this crime range from 5 years to life imprisonment, with more severe charges carrying mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. It’s crucial to have a dedicated rape defense lawyer on your side in Union, 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.
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 Union, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Causing serious physical injury to the other individual
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
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Rape Defense Lawyer in Union, 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 Union, MO a necessity. Key attributes to seek 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 past achievements can reflect their capability to effectively manage your case. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Union, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney specializing in sexual offenses will have deeper insights and strategies specific to these cases, compared to a general criminal defense lawyer. Combs Waterkotte is a law firm that focuses on defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Union, MO area.
- Strong Communication Skills: Your attorney should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, ensuring you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers offer free, no-obligation consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
- Empathy & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. A compassionate attorney who maintains professionalism can provide the support and confidence needed during this tough time. Our legal team is committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation in Union, MO.
Franklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Franklin County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Union, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or near Union, 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 Union, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Union, MO possess 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 needed to build a strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case. - Protection of Rights:
A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure that your constitutional rights are protected 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 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 Union, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte
A Union, 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 credibility issues.
- Consent: In Union, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, 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 find any mistakes or misinterpretations in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Providing an alibi or witness testimony that disputes 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 conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Union, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.
When you are accused of rape in or around Union, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the ideal rape defense lawyer in Union, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Union, MO residents:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
Reach Out to an Expert Union, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re accused of rape in Union, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From protecting your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to crafting strong defense strategies, an assertive Union, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome in your case.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Union, MO.
