Rape Defense Lawyer in West Plains, MO. If you are facing a rape accusation in West Plains, 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 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 West Plains, MO legal system.
Turn to Combs Waterkotte for help. Reach out to one of our esteemed West Plains, 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 West Plains, MO: What are the Penalties in Missouri?
The penalties for rape charges in West Plains, 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 he or she has sexual intercourse with another individual 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 penalties for this crime range from 5 years to life imprisonment, with more severe charges carrying mandatory minimum sentences of 15-30 years. You need a rape defense lawyer in your corner in West Plains, MO, fighting tirelessly 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
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. This offense is classified as 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 factors can lead to enhanced penalties for any degree of rape in West Plains, MO, including but not limited to:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Inflicting serious physical harm to the accuser
- Previous convictions for sexual offenses
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A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
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Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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Rape Defense Lawyer in West Plains, MO: Qualities 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 West Plains, MO a necessity. Things to look for 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 over seven decades of combined experience defending clients and their innocence in West Plains, MO.
- Specialization in Sexual Offense Defense: An attorney who focuses on sexual offenses will have more profound insights and strategies specific to these cases, as opposed 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 West Plains, MO area.
- Excellent Communication Abilities: 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 case reviews that do exactly that – providing expert legal advice and guidance.
- Compassion & Professionalism: Facing a rape accusation is emotionally challenging. An empathetic attorney who maintains 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 throughout the West Plains, MO area.
Howell County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Howell County and Missouri.
Rape Defense Lawyer in West Plains, MO: The Importance of Hiring Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape charge in or around West Plains, MO, the first thing you should do is 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 West Plains, MO lawyers include:
- Expertise in Sexual Offense Laws:
The Combs Waterkotte rape defense lawyers in West Plains, 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 strong defense. - Investigation & Evidence Gathering:
Rape cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis. Our seasoned attorneys perform comprehensive 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 protected 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 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 West Plains, MO: Effective Defense Tactics by Combs Waterkotte
A West Plains, MO rape defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte has a wealth of defense strategies to pull from, including:
- Scrutinizing the Accuser’s Credibility: This strategy involves analyzing the accuser’s testimony and background for inconsistencies, motives for false accusations, or other credibility concerns.
- Consent: In West Plains, MO cases where consent is disputed, your defense lawyer can present evidence and testimony to show that the encounter was consensual. This might include prior communications, previous relationship history, or witness testimony.
- Forensic Evidence: Examining and challenging forensic evidence, like DNA, can be crucial. Our experienced rape defense lawyer collaborates with forensic experts to identify any errors or misinterpretations in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Alibi and Witness Testimony: Presenting 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 did not adhere to proper procedures, like obtaining evidence illegally or violating your rights, our West Plains, MO rape defense lawyer can move to have such evidence suppressed.
When you’re facing a rape accusation in or around West Plains, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the leading rape defense lawyer in West Plains, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable rape defense attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in West Plains and beyond:
Contact an Experienced West Plains, MO Rape Defense Lawyer Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing a rape accusation in West Plains, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, seeking the expertise of a specialized attorney is the first essential step in safeguarding your future. From defending your rights and thoroughly investigating the case to developing robust defense strategies, an aggressive West Plains, MO rape defense lawyer is indispensable in getting the best possible outcome in your case.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation in West Plains, MO.
