Sex offense lawyers in Marshall, MO. Facing allegations or charges related to a sex offense in Marshall, MO or anywhere in Missouri can profoundly impact your life. 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 …
Sex Offense Lawyers in Marshall, MO: Comprehending Sex Offenses in the Marshall, MO Area
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences, particularly in Marshall, MO and the surrounding areas. It is crucial to understand the legal landscape when facing these charges. Additionally, the enduring shadow of doubt or shame that gets cast over your life due to even being accused of a sexual offense is enough to want to get this quickly resolved.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Marshall, MO have an ideal blend of practical experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and over 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.

Sex Offense Lawyers in Marshall, MO: Sex Crimes in Marshall, MO
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 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 includes 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 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 is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor below the legal age of 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 charge involves the creation, distribution, or possession of sexually explicit images or videos of children under the age of 18. Child pornography in Marshall, 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 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 Marshall, 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 such as the age of the victim, the use and severity of force, the relationship between you and the victim, and whether any aggravating circumstances are present. Don’t let a sex offense derail your life. The Marshall, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers understand the gravity of these allegations and will defend you against them. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Saline County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Saline County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Marshall, MO: Penalties for Convictions
Penalties for a sex offense conviction in Marshall, MO can include:
- Prison Time: Depending on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the severity 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 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 Marshall, MO area.
- 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 Marshall, MO area makes it difficult to restore your life even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Marshall, MO Sex Offense Lawyers of Combs Waterkotte on Your Side
Regardless of the gravity of your charges, the Combs Waterkotte legal team is here to help. Our skilled attorneys offer:
In-Depth Sex Offense Legal Expertise in Marshall, MO
Our attorneys focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay current on changes in Marshall, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, making sure your defense is based on the most current legal standards in the state.
Thorough Case Analysis
A skilled Marshall, MO sex offense attorney carefully examines all evidence against you, such as witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case and build a sound defense strategy.
Defending Your Rights in Marshall, MO
Maintaining your constitutional rights during the Marshall, MO legal process is critical. Our seasoned sex offense lawyers will defend 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
Every case is different, requiring a tailored defense strategy. 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 Your Case in Marshall, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers show genuine care for clients’ well-being and make an effort to understand your story. This can be an incredibly stressful time in your life. Our compassionate Marshall, 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’re accused of a sex offense in or around Marshall, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best sex offense lawyers in Marshall, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting 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 residents in Marshall and beyond:

Sex Offense Lawyers in Marshall, MO: Possible Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation anywhere near Marshall, 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 defenses our expert sex offense lawyers utilize include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our attorneys will work 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 work to provide evidence that you were somewhere else when the crime occurred.
- False Allegations: We can show 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 Marshall, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
Facing sex offense charges in Marshall, MO Marshall, 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 safeguard your rights and future, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Marshall, MO as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost, confidential case review.

