Rape Defense Lawyer Washington, MO

Rape Defense Lawyer in Washington, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in Washington, 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 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 Washington, MO legal system.

Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Call one of our experienced Washington, MO rape defense lawyers right now 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.

Rape Defense Lawyer in Washington, MO: Understanding the Penalties in Missouri

The penalties for rape charges in Washington, 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 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 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 Washington, 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 deserve.

Rape in the Second Degree

According to RSMo. § 566.031, rape in the second degree involves engaging in sexual intercourse with another person while knowing that they do not 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 more severe penalties for any degree of rape in Washington, 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 Washington, 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, MO. Things to look for in a defense attorney include:

• Experience & Proven 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 boast more than 60 years of combined experience defending clients and their innocence throughout the Washington, MO area.
• 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 specializes in the defense of rape and other sexual crimes anywhere in the Washington, MO area.
• Strong Communication Abilities: Your attorney 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-strings-attached consultations that offer expert legal advice and guidance.
• Empathy & Professionalism: Dealing with a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who upholds 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 throughout the Washington, MO area.

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

If you have been charged with rape in or anywhere around Washington, MO, your first move should be to contact a rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte immediately. 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 Washington, MO lawyers include:

• Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
  The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in Washington, MO have a deep understanding 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 strong defense.
• Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
  Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analysis. Our experienced lawyers perform comprehensive investigations, meticulously gather and scrutinize evidence, and rigorously 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 protecting you from 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 Washington, MO: Some Common Defense Strategies Employed by Combs Waterkotte

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

• Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves scrutinizing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, potential motives for false accusations, or other credibility issues.
• Consent: In Washington, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can provide evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness statements.
• Analyzing Forensic Evidence: Challenging forensic evidence, such as DNA, is essential. Our experienced rape defense lawyer partners with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Alibi and Witness Evidence: Providing 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 follow proper procedures, like conducting illegal searches or violating your rights, our Washington, MO rape defense lawyer can move to suppress that evidence.

When you are accused of rape in or around Washington, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the ideal rape defense lawyer in Washington, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our seasoned rape defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Washington and beyond:

• Weapons Crime Attorney
• DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
• Violent Crime Lawyer

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

If you’re accused of rape in Washington, MO or anywhere in Missouri, consulting with a specialized attorney is a crucial first step to protect your future. From defending your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to forming strong defense strategies, an aggressive Washington, 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 case review in Washington, MO.