Sex offense lawyers in Kearney, MO. Being accused or charged with a sex offense in Kearney, MO or anywhere else in Missouri can be a life-changing experience. The stigma and potential legal consequences, coupled with social and professional ramifications, underscore the necessity of having an experienced and tenacious sex offense lawyer by 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 Kearney, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in and around Kearney, MO. It is crucial to comprehend the legal landscape when 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 Kearney, MO offer a perfect blend of hands-on experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and over 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.
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Sex Offense Lawyers in Kearney, MO: Kinds of Sex Crimes
Missouri law defines sex offenses into various categories, each with unique definitions and corresponding penalties. Here are some of the most common sex offenses as defined under Missouri Revised Statutes:
- Rape: Rape includes non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration, often accompanied by force, threats, or incapacitation of the victim. According to RSMo. § 566.030, rape is a serious felony offense with 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 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 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 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: 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. 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 Kearney, 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 Kearney, 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 the parties involved, and the presence of any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense devastate your life. The Kearney, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers recognize the seriousness of these charges and will provide a robust defense. Give us a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Clay County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Clay County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Kearney, MO: Penalties for Convictions
Penalties for a sex offense conviction in Kearney, MO can include:
- Prison Time: Depending on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the gravity of your 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 may be imposed.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: A conviction in the Kearney, 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 Kearney, MO area makes it difficult to restore your life even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Kearney, 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 provide:
Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in Kearney, MO
Our attorneys specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay up-to-date on changes in Kearney, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, making sure your defense is grounded in the state’s most current legal standards.
Comprehensive Case Analysis
An experienced Kearney, MO sex offense attorney meticulously scrutinizes all evidence against you, including witness statements, police reports, and forensic information, to spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop a robust defense strategy.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Kearney, MO
Making sure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Kearney, MO. Our seasoned sex offense lawyers will safeguard your rights at every stage – from interrogations and investigations to court proceedings if necessary. Call our legal team right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Tailored Defense Strategies
Each case is distinct and requires a personalized defense plan. Whether it’s 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 Kearney, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers show genuine concern for their clients’ well-being and they take the time to understand your side of the story. This can be an incredibly stressful time in your life. Our empathetic Kearney, 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 facing a sex offense charge in or around Kearney, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading sex offense lawyers in Kearney, 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 provides expertise in the following areas for Kearney, MO residents:
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Felony Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
- Gun Charges Attorney
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plan
Sex Offense Lawyers in Kearney, MO: Potential Defense Strategies
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation near Kearney, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense legal team is prepared to assist. It’s important to understand the potential defenses that might help you. Some common defenses our expert sex offense lawyers might employ include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our legal team will look to prove that you were not the person who committed this 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 attorneys 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, including financial incentives, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Connect With the Leading Kearney, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
Being accused of a sex offense in Kearney, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and overwhelming experience. However, with the right 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 Kearney, MO a call as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-obligation case review.
