Sex offense lawyers in Columbia, MO. Facing allegations or charges related to a sex offense in Columbia, MO or anywhere in Missouri can profoundly impact your life. The stigma and potential legal consequences, coupled with social and professional impacts, make it crucial to have an experienced and determined sex offense lawyer on your side.
If you or someone you care about is dealing with these charges, reach out to Combs Waterkotte without delay at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online. Schedule a free, no-obligation case review with one of our sex offense lawyers to discuss the specifics of your case and receive 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 Columbia, MO: Understanding Sex Offenses in the Columbia, MO Area
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences, particularly in Columbia, MO and the surrounding areas. It is crucial to comprehend the legal landscape when facing these charges. Additionally, the enduring shadow of doubt or shame cast by an accusation of a sexual offense is enough to want to a quick resolution.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Columbia, MO offer a perfect blend of practical experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and over 275 reviews speak for themselves.
-
Protect Your Life
![Image]()
Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
Reach Out Now
-
Know Your Next Steps
![Image]()
Know Your Next Steps
Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
Stay Informed
-
Title
![Image]()
Ready to Talk to an Expert?
Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
Get Started
Sex Offense Lawyers in Columbia, MO: Kinds 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 involving 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 charges involve engaging in oral or anal sexual conduct with another person without their consent. Statutory sodomy refers to deviate sexual intercourse with someone 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 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: 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. Other forms of sexual misconduct are also illegal in and around Columbia, MO, but sexual misconduct with a minor is the most serious offense under RSMo. § 566.083, often classified as a class D or class E felony.
- Child Pornography: This crime entails producing, distributing, or possessing sexually explicit materials featuring minors. In Columbia, 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: This crime involves using a minor or vulnerable person for sexual purposes, such as creating 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 Columbia, MO, due to the power imbalance and the potential for exploiting the student.
These sex offenses can carry varying degrees of penalties based on factors such as the age of the victim, the extent of force used, the relationship between you and the victim, and any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense ruin your life. The Columbia, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers understand the seriousness of these charges and will defend you against them. Give us a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Boone County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Boone County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Columbia, MO: Penalties for Convictions
Penalties of a sex offense conviction in Columbia, MO might include:
- Prison Time: Depending on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the gravity of the offense, you could be facing a prison sentence ranging from several years to life imprisonment.
- Fines: Similar to many other criminal felony and misdemeanor charges, substantial fines and court costs could be imposed.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: If you’re convicted of a sex offense in the Columbia, MO area, you will be required to register as a sex offender likely for the rest of your life. This can seriously affect your opportunities for employment and housing, as well as your 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 Columbia, MO area makes it difficult to restore your life even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Columbia, 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 knowledgeable lawyers provide:
In-Depth Sex Offense Legal Expertise in Columbia, MO
Our legal experts focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay informed about updates in Columbia, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, making sure your defense is based on the state’s most recent legal standards.
Thorough Case Analysis
An experienced Columbia, MO sex offense attorney carefully reviews all evidence against you, such as any witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop a robust defense strategy.
Defending Your Rights in Columbia, MO
Making sure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Columbia, MO. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will protect your rights every step of the way – during interrogations, investigations, and, if necessary, court proceedings. Reach out to our legal team right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Strategic Defense Planning
Every case is unique and demands a customized defense strategy. Whether it’s challenging the credibility 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 the Duration of Your Case in Columbia, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers are genuinely concerned about their clients’ well-being and make an effort to understand your story. This period of time can be incredibly stressful. Our compassionate Columbia, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal counsel 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 Columbia, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal sex offense lawyers in Columbia, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable sex offense lawyers, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Columbia, MO residents:
Sex Offense Lawyers in Columbia, MO: Potential Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation in or around Columbia, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense attorneys are here to assist. Understanding the possible defenses that could be employed in your case is crucial. Some common defense strategies our experienced sex offense lawyers utilize include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our legal team will work to prove that you were not the person who committed this crime.
- Consent: We can present evidence showing that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity, supported by factual evidence and background investigation of the accuser.
- Alibi: Our lawyers can establish that you were in a different location when the crime took place.
- False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, like financial incentives, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Contact the Top Columbia, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
Being accused of a sex offense in Columbia, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and stressful experience. However, with skilled legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can protect your rights and your future, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Give the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Columbia, MO a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.
