Rape Defense Lawyer in Washington County, MO. Facing a rape accusation in Washington County, 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 Washington County, MO legal system and get you the best possible outcome.
You need to hire Combs Waterkotte. Call one of our experienced Washington County, MO rape defense lawyers immediately 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 Washington County, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
Facing rape charges in Washington County, 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 through 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 Washington 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 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, which can result in a person sentence ranging from 3 to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties under either degree of rape in Washington 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
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Rape Defense Lawyer in Washington County, MO: Key Attributes 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 Washington County, 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 have more than seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in the Washington County, MO area and beyond.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have deeper 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 Washington County, MO area.
- Strong Communication Abilities: Your lawyer should clearly explain legal terms, processes, and strategies, ensuring you fully understand your situation and options. Combs Waterkotte’s rape defense lawyers provide free, no-strings-attached consultations that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who upholds professionalism can offer the support and confidence you need during this difficult time. Our legal team is dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation in Washington County, MO.
Washington County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Washington County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in Washington County, MO: Why You Need to Hire Combs Waterkotte
If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Washington County, MO, your first move should be to 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.
Why you should hire our Washington County, MO attorneys:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Washington County, 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 relevant statutes, precedents, and procedural requirements 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, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously challenge the prosecution’s case. - Protection of Rights:
A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will make sure 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. - 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 Washington County, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A Washington County, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte utilizes a range of defense tactics, including:
- Scrutinizing the Credibility of the Accuser: This approach involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background to find inconsistencies, possible motives for false accusations, or credibility issues.
- Consent: In Washington County, MO cases where consent is at issue, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This can include communications between you and the accuser, past relationship history, or witness statements.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is critical. Our knowledgeable rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Evidence: Presenting an alibi or witness evidence that contradicts the accuser’s account can be a powerful defense strategy.
- Procedural Defenses: If law enforcement or the prosecution did not adhere to proper procedures, such as obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights in any way, our Washington County, MO rape defense lawyer will work to have such evidence excluded.
When you are accused of rape in or around Washington County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the best rape defense lawyer in Washington County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed rape defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Washington County and beyond:
Reach Out to an Expert Washington County, MO Rape Defense Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
Facing a rape accusation in Washington County, MO or anywhere in Missouri requires the immediate expertise of a specialized attorney. From defending your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to forming strong defense strategies, an aggressive Washington County, MO rape defense lawyer is key to securing the best possible outcome.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in Washington County, MO.
