Sex offense lawyers in Lawrence County, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in Lawrence County, 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 ramifications, make it crucial to have an experienced and determined 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 Lawrence County, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses in the Lawrence County, MO Area
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in and around Lawrence County, MO. Understanding the legal landscape is essential for anyone facing such 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 Lawrence County, MO offer a perfect blend of practical experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our exceptional record and more than 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.
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Sex Offense Lawyers in Lawrence County, MO: Sex Crimes in Lawrence County, MO
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 involves 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: The charge of sodomy involves 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. 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. Other forms of sexual misconduct are also illegal, but sexual misconduct with a minor is considered the most severe under RSMo. § 566.083, often a class D or class E felony.
- Child Pornography: This charge involves the creation, distribution, or possession of sexually explicit images or videos of children under the age of 18. Child pornography in Lawrence County, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a class D or class B felony offense and, according to RSMo. § 573.037, you could be subject to separate sentences for each article of child pornography you are accused of possessing, creating, or distributing.
- 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 Lawrence County, 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 such as the age of the victim, 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 Lawrence County, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers recognize the seriousness of these charges and will defend you against them. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Lawrence County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Lawrence County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Lawrence County, MO: Penalties for Convictions
Penalties for a sex offense conviction in Lawrence County, MO might 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: 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 Lawrence County, MO area.
- Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: Such a conviction can tarnish your reputation and strain relationships with colleagues, romantic partners, family, and neighbors. The long-lasting or permanent nature of these convictions in the Lawrence County, MO area makes rebuilding your life challenging, even post-sentence.
Why You Need the Lawrence 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 Lawrence County, MO
Our attorneys focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay current on changes in Lawrence County, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, ensuring your defense is based on the state’s most current legal standards.
Thorough Case Analysis
A knowledgeable Lawrence County, MO sex offense lawyer meticulously scrutinizes all evidence against you, such as any witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case and develop a robust defense strategy.
Defending Your Rights in Lawrence County, MO
Making sure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Lawrence County, MO. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will protect your rights at every juncture – from interrogations and investigations to court proceedings if necessary. Reach out to our legal team now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Tailored Defense Strategies
Each case is distinct and requires a personalized defense plan. Whether it involves challenging 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 Lawrence County, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers show genuine care for their clients’ well-being and make an effort to understand your story. This can be an incredibly stressful time in your life. Our compassionate Lawrence County, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal advice and support, but also offer emotional guidance to help you and your family manage.
When you are accused of a sex offense in or around Lawrence County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading sex offense lawyers in Lawrence County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed sex offense lawyers, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Lawrence County, MO residents:
Sex Offense Lawyers in Lawrence County, MO: Potential Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation anywhere near Lawrence County, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense legal team is here to assist. It’s important to understand the potential defenses that might help you. Some common defense strategies 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 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 lawyers can gather and present evidence proving that you were elsewhere when the crime took place.
- False Allegations: We can show that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, such as financial gain, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Connect With the Leading Lawrence County, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
Facing sex offense charges in Lawrence County, MO Lawrence County, 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 protect your rights and future, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Give the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Lawrence County, MO a call as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
