Sex offense lawyers in California, MO. Being accused or charged with a sex offense in California, 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 serious charges, contact Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our sex offense lawyers to discuss the specific circumstances of your case and obtain expert legal advice and guidance on the best course of action.
Legal Videos

What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions?
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte federal criminal defense firm discuss potential penalties related to federal sex crime …

Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration?
Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration? Andrew Russek, a lawyer with leading federal criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte, discusses the sex offender registry and federal sex …

What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State?
What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs of Combs Waterkotte discuss factors that play into a sex crime being classified as federal, rather than …

What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges?
What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek of Combs Waterkotte discuss the most common federal sex crime charges. Interview Transcript Scott Michael Dunn: Well, let's …

Everything You Need To Know About Federal Criminal Charges
Featured on Hexxen Studios, Chris Combs and Andrew Russek sat down to talk about federal criminal charges. In this video, you can learn about different types of federal charges, how they differ …

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 …
Sex Offense Lawyers in California, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in and around California, 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 substantially, making a swift resolution imperative.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in California, MO possess a unique combination of practical experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our exceptional record and over 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.

Sex Offense Lawyers in California, MO: Kinds of Sex Crimes
Missouri law defines sex offenses into various categories, each with unique definitions and corresponding penalties. The following are some of the most common sex offenses as outlined in the Missouri Revised Statutes:
- Rape: Rape includes non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration, often involving force, threats, or incapacitation of the victim. As per 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 is having deviate sexual intercourse with another person who is less than 14 years of age.
- Sexual Abuse/Assault: Sexual abuse or assault encompasses a range of abusive sexual behaviors, like unwanted touching or groping, which may not qualify as rape or sodomy but still involve exploitation and harm, and are criminal offenses.
- Statutory Rape: Statutory rape involves sexual intercourse with a minor below the age of consent, even if the minor appears to consent. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17, and sexual activity with a minor under 14 can lead to charges of statutory rape in the first degree.
- Sexual Misconduct With a Minor: A charge of sexual misconduct with a minor involves inappropriate sexual contact with a minor under 15 years old. This includes actions like exposing one’s genitals or coercing the minor to expose their genitals or breasts. Other forms of sexual misconduct are also illegal in and around California, MO, but sexual misconduct with a minor is the most serious offense under RSMo. § 566.083, often a class D or class E felony.
- Child Pornography: This crime entails producing, distributing, or possessing sexually explicit materials featuring minors. In California, MO, and Missouri at large, child pornography offenses are classified as class D or class B felony offenses under RSMo. § 573.037. Each instance of possession, creation, or distribution is treated as a separate offense.
- Sexual Exploitation: Sexual exploitation involves using minors or vulnerable individuals for sexual purposes, like creating explicit content. Charges can range based on specifics, frequently involving trafficking or exploiting minors.
- Sexual Contact With a Student: This typically refers to sexual contact or behavior between an educator (teacher, school employee, or volunteer) and a student enrolled in the same school district. Sexual contact with a student is taken very seriously in the California, MO area due to the inherent power imbalance and potential for exploitation of the student by the adult in a position of authority.
These sex offenses can carry varying degrees of penalties based on factors like the victim’s age, the use and degree of force, the relationship between you and the victim, and any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense devastate your life. The California, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers recognize the gravity of these allegations and will defend you against them. Give us a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Moniteau County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Moniteau County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in California, MO: Penalties for Convictions
The consequences of a sex offense conviction in California, MO may include:
- Prison Time: Depending on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the gravity of the offense, you could be facing a prison term of years or even life.
- Fines: Similar to many other criminal felony and misdemeanor charges, substantial fines and court costs could be imposed.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: If convicted, you will have to register as a sex offender likely for life, which will affect job prospects, housing options, and personal relationships throughout the California, MO area.
- Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: A sex offense conviction in California, MO can damage your reputation and harm the relationships in your life – whether it’s colleagues, romantic relationships, family members, or neighbors. The long-lasting or even permanent nature of sex offense convictions throughout the California, MO area make it difficult to rebuild your life, even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the California, MO Sex Offense Lawyers of Combs Waterkotte on Your Side
No matter the severity of your charges, the Combs Waterkotte legal team is ready to assist. Our experienced attorneys offer:
In-Depth Sex Offense Legal Expertise in California, MO
Our lawyers focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay informed about updates in California, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, making sure your defense is grounded in the most current legal standards in the state.
Thorough Case Evaluation
An experienced California, MO sex offense attorney carefully reviews all evidence against you, including any witness statements, police reports, and forensic information, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and formulate a strong defense strategy.
Safeguarding Your Rights in California, MO
Ensuring your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in California, MO. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will safeguard your rights every step of the way – from interrogations and investigations to court proceedings if necessary. Reach out to our legal team now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Strategic Defense Planning
Every case is unique and demands a customized defense strategy. Whether it involves challenging the credibility of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea bargains, our sex offense lawyers will formulate a solid strategy that fits your particular circumstances.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout the Duration of Your Case in California, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers are genuinely concerned about their clients’ well-being and they take the time to understand your side of the story. This can be an extremely stressful period in your life. Our compassionate California, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal advice and support, but also emotional assistance to help you and your family cope.
When you are accused of a sex offense in or around California, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the ideal sex offense lawyers in California, 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 California, MO residents:

Sex Offense Lawyers in California, MO: Potential Defense Strategies
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation anywhere near California, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense attorneys are ready to help. It’s important to understand the potential defenses that might help you. Some common defense strategies our expert sex offense lawyers utilize include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our lawyers will look to prove that you were not the individual responsible for the crime.
- Consent: We can provide evidence demonstrating that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity, supported by factual proof and an investigation into the accuser’s background.
- Alibi: Our sex offense lawyers can gather and present evidence proving that you were elsewhere when the crime took place.
- False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have other motivations for making the allegation, including financial gain, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Connect With the Leading California, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
Being accused of a sex offense in California, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and stressful situation. However, with skilled legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can defend your rights and your future, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Give the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in California, MO a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.

