Rape Defense Lawyer University City, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in University City, MO. Facing a rape accusation in University City, 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. To ensure you have the best possible defense, it’s crucial to hire a specialized rape defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the University City, MO legal system.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our experienced University City, 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.

Rape Defense Lawyer in University City, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

The penalties for rape charges in University City, 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 they engage in sexual intercourse with another person 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 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. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in University City, 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 need.

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. 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 enhanced penalties for either degree of rape in University City, MO, including but not limited to:

• Use of a deadly weapon
• Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
• Having prior convictions for sexual offenses

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

The seriousness of a rape accusation necessitates hiring a knowledgable and determined rape defense lawyer in University City, MO. Key attributes to seek in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven Track Record: You should look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling rape defense cases just like yours. Their previous successes can be indicative of their ability to manage your case effectively. The rape defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte boast more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the University City, MO area and beyond.
• Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will possess 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 defending against rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the University City, MO area.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Your lawyer 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 consultations that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally taxing. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can provide the support and confidence needed during this difficult time. Our legal team stops at nothing to provide you with the best possible legal representation throughout the University City, MO area.

Rape Defense Lawyer in University City, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte

If you are facing a rape charge in or anywhere around University City, MO, the first thing you should do is contact a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte now. 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 University City, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in University City, 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 intricacies needed to build a robust defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously gather and examine evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s assertions.
• Protection of Rights:
  A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process. This includes preventing unlawful searches and seizures, ensuring you receive a fair trial, and protecting you from self-incrimination.
• Negotiation Skills:
  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 University City, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

A University City, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:

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

When you’re accused of rape in or around University City, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in University City, 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 University City, MO residents:

• Drivers License Reinstatement Attorney
• Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
• Weapons Crime Attorney

Get in Touch With a Skilled University City, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

Facing a rape accusation in University City, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From protecting your rights and investigating the case to forming robust defense strategies, an aggressive University City, MO rape defense lawyer is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

Reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in University City, MO.