Sex offense lawyers in Meramec, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in Meramec, 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 a loved one is facing these charges, call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, no-strings-attached consultation with one of our sex offense lawyers. There, you can discuss the specifics of your case and get expert legal advice and guidance on your next steps.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Meramec, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in the Meramec, MO area. It is crucial to comprehend the legal landscape when 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 a quick resolution.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Meramec, MO possess a unique combination of hands-on experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our outstanding track record and more than 275 reviews speak for themselves.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Meramec, MO: Types of Sex Crimes
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 entails 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 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 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 a class D or class E felony.
- Child Pornography: This crime entails producing, distributing, or possessing sexually explicit materials featuring minors. In Meramec, 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 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 Meramec, 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 relationship between the parties involved, and whether any aggravating circumstances are present. Don’t let a sex offense ruin your life. The Meramec, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers understand the gravity of these allegations and will defend you against them. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Meramec, MO: Penalties for Convictions
Penalties for a sex offense conviction in Meramec, MO might include:
- Prison Time: Based 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: You may be required to pay substantial fines and court costs, similar to other criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: If you’re convicted of a sex offense in the Meramec, MO area, you will be required to register as a sex offender likely for the rest of your life. This can seriously affect your opportunities for employment and housing, as well as your 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 Meramec, MO area makes it difficult to restore your life even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Meramec, 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 offer:
Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in Meramec, MO
Our lawyers focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay informed about updates in Meramec, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, ensuring your defense is based on the state’s most recent legal standards.
Thorough Case Analysis
A skilled Meramec, MO sex offense attorney carefully scrutinizes all evidence against you, such as any witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop a robust defense strategy.
Protecting Your Rights in Meramec, MO
Ensuring your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is vital in Meramec, MO. Our seasoned sex offense lawyers will defend your rights every step of the way – during interrogations, investigations, and, if necessary, court proceedings. Reach out to our legal team right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Tailored Defense Strategies
Every case is different, requiring a tailored defense strategy. Whether it involves challenging the credibility of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea bargains, our sex offense lawyers will craft a robust strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout the Duration of Your Case in Meramec, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers are genuinely concerned about 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 Meramec, MO sex offense attorneys not only provide sound legal advice and support, but also emotional guidance which can help you and your family manage.
When you are facing a sex offense charge in or around Meramec, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal sex offense lawyers in Meramec, 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 residents in Meramec and beyond:
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Lawyer
- Juvenile Defense Lawyer
Sex Offense Lawyers in Meramec, MO: Possible Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation in or around Meramec, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense attorneys are prepared to assist. It’s important to understand the potential defenses that might help you. Some common defense strategies our expert sex offense lawyers utilize include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our attorneys will look to prove that you were not the person who committed this crime.
- Consent: We can demonstrate that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity with factual evidence, as well as by investigating the accuser’s background.
- Alibi: Our attorneys 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 incentives, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Contact the Top Meramec, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Today
Facing sex offense charges in Meramec, MO Meramec, 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 protect your rights and your future, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Give the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Meramec, MO a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost, confidential consultation.
