Sex Crimes Attorney Columbia, MO

Sex crimes attorney in Columbia, MO. If you are facing sex crime charges in or around Columbia, MO, Combs Waterkotte is here for you and ready to talk about how our skilled sex crimes attorneys can help. Get in touch with our team for a free review of your case online through our form or call (314) 900-HELP.

At Combs Waterkotte, we know precisely what’s at stake. You need the help of an experienced sex crimes attorney in Columbia, MO to protect your rights and defend your case. Sex crimes carry serious consequences, including harsh prison sentences, mandatory sex offender registration, and hefty fines. Trust Combs Waterkotte.

Article Summary

Being charged with a sex crime in Columbia, MO is one of the most serious legal challenges you can face, with consequences that can follow you for the rest of your life. On this page, you’ll find out how an experienced sex crimes attorney can defend your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and fight to keep you out of prison and off the sex offender registry. Learn about the charges we handle, why acting quickly is crucial, and how our discreet, determined defense can help you safeguard your freedom and reputation when everything is at stake.

Types of Sex Crime Charges in Columbia, MO

Allegations of sex crimes in Columbia, MO can vary greatly, from lesser misdemeanors to severe felonies that carry life-changing penalties. At Combs Waterkotte, we have experience defending clients against a wide range of charges, including:

• Rape: Defined under Missouri Law as nonconsensual sexual intercourse or penetration, rape is a felony offense with potential sentences from 5 years in prison up to life without parole as outlined in Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030.
• Sexual Assault: Sexual assault involves any unwanted sexual contact, including touching or groping. It is also a serious felony offense that can result in a prison sentence of up to 30 years.
• Statutory Rape: Statutory rape occurs when an individual engages in sexual activity with a minor who is below the age of consent, as they are considered too young to be capable of giving informed consent. The age of consent in Columbia and elsewhere in Missouri is 17 years old, and engaging in sexual activity with a minor under the age of 14 as an adult can result in charges of statutory rape in the first degree.
• Child Pornography: Accusations of child pornography involve creating, possessing, or distributing images or videos depicting minors in sexual situations. Missouri law (RSMo. § 573.037) allows prosecutors to pursue charges for each piece of content, meaning multiple felonies and up to 30 years in prison depending on case details.
• Sexual Misconduct with a Minor: Sexual misconduct with a minor involves exposing genitals or coercing a minor under 15 to engage in sexually explicit behavior. As outlined in RSMo. § 566.083, this is a serious Class D or Class E felony that can result in prison and long-term consequences.

A Sex Crimes Conviction in Columbia, MO Can Change Everything. Let Us Help You Fight Back.

If you are convicted of a sex crime in Missouri, you are subject to severe consequences that can impact your life for years to come, including restrictions on where you can live and work, as well as constant damage to your personal and professional relationships.

Each case is different and depends on the evidence presented, the nature of what took place, your previous criminal history, the judge presiding over your case, and other factors. The sooner you have a tough, knowledgeable Columbia, MO sex crimes attorney by your side, the better your chances of avoiding the worst penalties. From day one, we fight to get your charges reduced or dismissed. We also provide:

• Trusted Legal Advocacy You Can Rely on in Columbia, MO: Our Columbia, MO sex crimes attorneys have over 60 years of combined experience. From pretrial investigations to courtroom proceedings, we serve as advocates for our clients. We are fully transparent throughout the legal process, providing honest legal advice, strategizing possible defense tactics, and protecting your rights and future during hearings and trials.
• Thorough Case Investigations: We don’t rely on assumptions. Every case begins with a meticulous evaluation by a seasoned Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Columbia, MO. We dig into police reports, scrutinize evidence, identify legal errors, and speak with potential witnesses — all to build a personalized defense strategy that fits your exact situation.
• Courtroom Advocacy in Columbia, MO: When it’s time to face a judge and jury, our experienced Columbia, MO litigators rise to the occasion. We present persuasive arguments, cross-examine key witnesses, and challenge the prosecution at every turn — always aiming to establish reasonable doubt and secure the best possible outcome for you.
• Post-Trial: Even after a conviction, a dedicated Columbia, MO sex crimes attorney doesn’t stop fighting. We can file appeals, pursue post-conviction motions, or explore other legal avenues to challenge wrongful convictions or lessen the impact of a guilty verdict.

Columbia, MO Sex Crimes Attorney: Common Legal Defenses

Being accused of a sex crime in Columbia, MO is overwhelming, but a powerful defense can make all the difference. Every case is unique, and the strongest defense depends on the exact facts and legal circumstances. Below are some of the most effective legal defenses our attorneys use in sex crime cases:

• Consent:
  Many sex crime cases hinge on whether the act was consensual. If both people willingly participated and were of legal age, we can use text messages, prior relationship history, or witness accounts to argue affirmative consent and dismantle the charge.
• Alibi:
  One of the strongest defenses available is proving you were somewhere else when the alleged crime occurred. Witness statements, receipts, phone records, or video footage can support an airtight alibi.
• False Allegations:
  In rare but serious situations, accusations may be fabricated out of revenge, jealousy, custody disputes, or other personal motives. We can present evidence of bias, inconsistencies, or ulterior motives to undermine the credibility of the allegations.
• Unlawful Police Conduct or Rights Violations:
  If police in Columbia, MO cut corners — like executing an illegal search or forcing a confession — we’ll file motions to suppress tainted evidence and challenge the legality of your arrest. That could mean your case gets thrown out before trial even begins.
• Insufficient Evidence:
  If the prosecution’s case lacks solid evidence, or relies heavily on unreliable witness statements or questionable forensic results, your Columbia, MO sex crimes attorney can argue that the state has not met its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Mental Health or Cognitive Challenges:
  If you suffered from a mental health condition or cognitive impairment at the time of the incident, we may argue you were incapable of forming criminal intent, which can lead to reduced charges or penalties.
• Reasonable Belief of Legal Age:
  In Columbia, MO statutory sex crime cases, we may argue that you had a reasonable and good-faith belief that the other individual was of legal age. This defense depends on the specific facts, but it can be effective in minimizing charges or penalties.

How a Sex Crimes Attorney in Columbia, MO Can Help You

When you hire Combs Waterkotte to defend your Columbia, MO sex crimes case, you get the best possible legal guidance and representation throughout your case. Don’t let this ruin your life. With an expert Columbia, MO sex crimes defense attorney dedicated to your case, you have a chance.

As a respected Columbia, MO criminal defense firm, we know what’s at stake. From the moment you contact us, we go to work building a powerful defense strategy, challenging the prosecution’s case, and helping you navigate every phase of the legal process. Our track record includes successfully defending clients against serious charges, and we’re ready to do the same for you.

Other types of cases we take on in Columbia, MO are:

• Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans

Your Freedom Is at Risk. Contact a Columbia, MO Sex Crimes Lawyer Now.

Facing a sex crime accusation can feel overwhelming, isolating, and terrifying. But, you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’ve been charged or are under investigation in Columbia, MO, the decisions you make today could shape the rest of your life. Don’t talk to police without experienced legal counsel by your side.

Call the trusted team at Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll listen without judgment, explain your options clearly, and take immediate steps to defend your rights. You have a future in Columbia. Let us help protect it.