Sex offense lawyers in Benton, MO. Being accused or charged with a sex offense in Benton, MO or anywhere else in Missouri can be a life-changing experience. The stigma, potential legal repercussions, and social and professional consequences make it imperative to have a skilled and dedicated sex offense lawyer.
If you or a loved one is facing these charges, call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-strings-attached consultation with one of our sex offense lawyers. There, you can discuss the specifics of your case and get expert legal advice and guidance on your next steps.
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 …
Sex Offense Lawyers in Benton, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses in the Benton, MO Area
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in and around Benton, MO. Understanding the legal landscape is essential for anyone facing such charges. Moreover, the lingering doubt and shame associated with even an accusation of a sexual offense can disrupt your life significantly, making a swift resolution imperative.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Benton, MO offer a perfect blend of practical experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and more than 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.
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Sex Offense Lawyers in Benton, MO: Types of Sex Crimes
Missouri law categorizes sex offenses into various types, each with distinct definitions and applicable penalties. Here are some of the most common sex offenses under the Missouri Revised Statutes:
- Rape: Rape includes non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration, often accompanied by force, threats, or incapacitation of the victim. As defined in RSMo. § 566.030, rape is a severe felony with potential prison sentences ranging from 5 years to life.
- Sodomy: Sodomy includes oral or anal sexual conduct with another person without their consent. Statutory sodomy pertains to deviate sexual intercourse with an individual under 14 years old.
- Sexual Abuse/Assault: Sexual abuse or assault includes various forms of non-consensual sexual behavior, such as inappropriate touching or groping, which do not meet the criteria for rape or sodomy but still involve criminal exploitation or harm.
- Statutory Rape: Statutory rape is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor below the legal age of consent. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17, and engaging in sexual acts with a child under 14 can result in charges of statutory rape in the first degree.
- Sexual Misconduct With a Minor: Charges of sexual misconduct with a minor involve engaging in sexual acts with a minor under 15, including exposing one’s genitals or coercing a minor to expose theirs. While various forms of sexual misconduct are criminal, this particular offense is the most serious under RSMo. § 566.083, often classified as a class D or class E felony.
- Child Pornography: This charge involves the creation, distribution, or possession of sexually explicit images or videos of children under the age of 18. Child pornography in Benton, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a class D or class B felony offense and, according to RSMo. § 573.037, you could be subject to separate sentences for each article of child pornography you are accused of possessing, creating, or distributing.
- Sexual Exploitation: This offense involves using a minor or vulnerable person for sexual purposes, such as producing child pornography. Sexual exploitation charges can vary depending on the circumstances, but frequently include either trafficking for sexual exploitation or the sexual exploitation of a minor.
- Sexual Contact With a Student: This charge typically refers to sexual interactions between a teacher, school employee, or volunteer, and a student in the same school district. Sexual contact with a student is a serious offense in Benton, MO, due to the power imbalance and the potential for exploiting the student.
These sex offenses can carry varying degrees of penalties depending on factors such as the age of the victim, the use and severity of force, the relationship between you and the victim, and any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense derail your life. The Benton, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers understand the seriousness of these charges and are ready to defend you. Give us a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Scott County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Scott County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Benton, MO: Penalties for Convictions
The consequences of a sex offense conviction in Benton, MO may include:
- Prison Time: Depending on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the severity of the offense, you could be looking at a prison term of years or even life.
- Fines: You may be required to pay substantial fines and court costs, similar to other criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: A conviction in the Benton, MO area means you will likely need to register as a sex offender for life, impacting your employment, housing, and personal relationships.
- Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: A conviction can seriously harm your reputation and affect relationships with coworkers, loved ones, family members, and neighbors. The enduring or permanent nature of these convictions in the Benton, MO area makes it difficult to restore your life even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Benton, MO Sex Offense Lawyers of Combs Waterkotte on Your Side
No matter the severity of your charges, the Combs Waterkotte legal team is here to help. Our knowledgeable lawyers offer:
Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in Benton, MO
Our lawyers focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay up-to-date on changes in Benton, MO and Missouri legislation and court rulings, ensuring your defense is grounded in the state’s most recent legal standards.
Comprehensive Case Analysis
A knowledgeable Benton, MO sex offense lawyer meticulously examines all evidence against you, including witness statements, police reports, and forensic information, to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case and formulate a strong defense strategy.
Defending Your Rights in Benton, MO
Ensuring your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Benton, MO. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will protect your rights at every juncture – from interrogations and investigations to court proceedings if necessary. Give our legal team a call right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Strategic Defense Planning
Each case is distinct and requires a personalized defense plan. Whether it’s challenging the validity of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea deals, our sex offense lawyers will formulate a solid strategy that fits your particular circumstances.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout Your Case in Benton, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers are genuinely concerned about their clients’ well-being and make an effort to understand your story. This can be an incredibly stressful time in your life. Our compassionate Benton, MO sex offense attorneys not only provide sound legal advice and support, but also offer emotional guidance to help you and your family cope.
When you’re facing a sex offense charge in or around Benton, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best sex offense lawyers in Benton, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed sex offense lawyers, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Benton, MO residents:
Sex Offense Lawyers in Benton, MO: Possible Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation near Benton, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense attorneys are ready to help. Knowing the potential defenses available can be crucial to your case. Some common defenses our experienced sex offense lawyers might employ include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our attorneys will work to prove that you were not the person who committed this crime.
- Consent: We can demonstrate that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity with factual evidence, as well as by investigating the accuser’s background.
- Alibi: Our attorneys can work to provide evidence that you were somewhere else when the crime occurred.
- False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have other motivations for making the allegation, like financial incentives, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Contact the Top Benton, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
Facing sex offense charges in Benton, MO Benton, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and overwhelming situation. However, with the right legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can protect your rights and future, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Give the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Benton, MO a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.
