Sex offense lawyers in Jackson County, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in Jackson County, MO or anywhere else in Missouri for that matter can be a life-altering 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 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 Jackson County, MO: Comprehending Sex Offenses
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences, particularly in Jackson County, MO and the surrounding areas. It is crucial to understand the legal landscape if you’re facing these charges. Additionally, the long-lasting shadow of doubt or shame cast by an accusation of a sexual offense is enough to want to get this quickly resolved.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Jackson County, MO offer a perfect blend of hands-on experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and more than 275 reviews speak for themselves.
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Sex Offense Lawyers in Jackson County, 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 involves 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 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 under the age of consent, even if the minor appears to 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 crime entails producing, distributing, or possessing sexually explicit materials featuring minors. In Jackson County, 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 Jackson County, 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 result in different levels of penalties depending on factors like the victim’s age, the use and severity of force, the nature of the relationship between the accused and the victim, and whether any aggravating circumstances are present. Don’t let a sex offense devastate your life. The Jackson County, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers comprehend the gravity of these allegations and will provide a robust defense. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Jackson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jackson County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Jackson County, MO: Penalties for Convictions
Penalties for a sex offense conviction in Jackson County, MO can include:
- Prison Time: Depending on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the severity of the offense, you could be looking at a prison sentence ranging from several years to life imprisonment.
- Fines: You may be required to pay substantial fines and court costs, as is the case with many criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
- 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 Jackson County, MO area.
- Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: A sex offense conviction in Jackson County, 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 Jackson County, MO area make it difficult to rebuild your life, even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Jackson County, 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 experienced attorneys provide:
In-Depth Sex Offense Legal Expertise in Jackson County, MO
Our attorneys specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay current on changes in Jackson County, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, ensuring your defense is grounded in the state’s most recent legal standards.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
A skilled Jackson County, MO sex offense attorney carefully reviews all evidence against you, such as 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 Jackson County, MO
Maintaining your constitutional rights during the Jackson County, MO legal process is critical. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will safeguard your rights at every juncture – during interrogations, investigations, and, if necessary, court proceedings. Give our legal team a call now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Strategic Defense Planning
Each case is distinct and requires a personalized defense plan. Whether it involves disputing 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 the Duration of Your Case in Jackson County, 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 Jackson County, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal counsel and support, but also emotional guidance which can help you and your family manage.
When you are accused of a sex offense in or around Jackson County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading sex offense lawyers in Jackson County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our seasoned sex offense lawyers, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Jackson County and beyond:
Sex Offense Lawyers in Jackson County, MO: Possible Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation in or around Jackson County, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense legal team is here to assist. Knowing the potential defenses available can be crucial to your case. Some common defense strategies our expert sex offense lawyers utilize include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our lawyers 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 attorneys can establish that you were in a different location when the crime occurred.
- False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, such as financial incentives, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Connect With the Leading Jackson County, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
Being accused of a sex offense in Jackson County, 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 safeguard your rights and your future, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Jackson County, MO as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential case review.
