Sex offense lawyers in Hillsboro, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in Hillsboro, MO or anywhere else in Missouri for that matter can be a life-altering experience. The stigma and potential legal consequences, along with social and professional impacts, make it crucial to have an experienced and tenacious sex offense lawyer on your side.
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 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 Hillsboro, MO: Understanding Sex Offenses in the Hillsboro, MO Area
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences, particularly in Hillsboro, MO and the surrounding areas. Understanding the legal landscape is essential for anyone facing these 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 Hillsboro, MO have an ideal blend of practical experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and over 275 reviews speak for themselves.
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Sex Offense Lawyers in Hillsboro, MO: Kinds of Sex Crimes
Missouri law classifies sex offenses into several categories, each with specific definitions and associated 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 per RSMo. § 566.030, rape is a serious felony offense with 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 covers a range of abusive sexual behaviors that may not meet the criteria for rape or sodomy, including touching or groping, but still involve exploitation or harm and are still considered criminal.
- Statutory Rape: Statutory rape involves sexual intercourse with a minor under the age of consent, even if the minor appears to consent. The age of consent is 17 in Missouri, and engaging in sexual activity with a minor under 14 can result in charges of statutory rape in the first degree.
- Sexual Misconduct With a Minor: A sexual misconduct with a minor charge involves sexual contact with a minor (under 15 years old), including acts like exposing one’s genitals or coercing the minor to expose their genitals or breasts. 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 offense includes the creation, distribution, or possession of sexually explicit images or videos of children under 18. In Hillsboro, MO, and across Missouri, child pornography is a severe crime, classified as a class D or class B felony, as outlined in RSMo. § 573.037. Each piece of child pornography may result in separate charges.
- 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 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 Hillsboro, MO, due to the power imbalance and the potential for exploiting the student.
These sex offenses can result in different levels of penalties depending on factors like the victim’s age, the use and degree of force, the nature of the relationship between the accused and the victim, and the presence of any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense derail your life. The Hillsboro, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers comprehend the seriousness of these allegations and will defend you against them. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Jefferson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jefferson County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Hillsboro, MO: Penalties for Convictions
Penalties for a sex offense conviction in Hillsboro, MO might include:
- Prison Time: Based 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: You may be required to pay significant fines and court costs, as is the case with many criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: A conviction in the Hillsboro, 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 sex offense conviction in Hillsboro, 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 Hillsboro, MO area make it difficult to rebuild your life, even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Hillsboro, 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 provide:
Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in Hillsboro, MO
Our legal experts focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay up-to-date on changes in Hillsboro, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, making sure your defense is based on the state’s most recent legal standards.
Thorough Case Analysis
A knowledgeable Hillsboro, MO sex offense lawyer meticulously reviews 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.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Hillsboro, MO
Making sure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is vital in Hillsboro, MO. Our seasoned sex offense lawyers will safeguard your rights every step of the way – 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
Every case is unique and demands a customized defense strategy. Whether it involves disputing the validity of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea deals, our sex offense lawyers will develop a sound strategy suited to your specific circumstances.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout the Duration of Your Case in Hillsboro, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers show genuine care for their clients’ well-being and they take the time to understand your side of the story. This period of time can be incredibly stressful. Our empathetic Hillsboro, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal counsel and support, but also emotional guidance which can help you and your family cope.
When you’re accused of a sex offense in or around Hillsboro, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the ideal sex offense lawyers in Hillsboro, MO and throughout Missouri – you are 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 residents in Hillsboro and beyond:
Sex Offense Lawyers in Hillsboro, MO: Possible Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation anywhere near Hillsboro, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense attorneys are prepared to assist. 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 look to prove that you were not the individual responsible for the 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 occurred.
- False Allegations: We can show that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, like financial gain, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Contact the Top Hillsboro, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
Facing sex offense charges in Hillsboro, MO Hillsboro, 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 defend your rights and future, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Hillsboro, MO immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost, confidential case review.
