Sex offense lawyers in Republic, MO. Facing allegations or charges related to a sex offense in Republic, 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 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.
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 Republic, MO: Comprehending Sex Offenses in the Republic, MO Area
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in and around Republic, MO. Understanding the legal landscape is essential for anyone facing such 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 Republic, MO have an ideal blend of practical experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our exceptional record and more than 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.

Sex Offense Lawyers in Republic, MO: Kinds of Sex Crimes
Missouri law categorizes sex offenses into various types, each with distinct definitions and applicable penalties. The following are some of the most common sex offenses as outlined in the Missouri Revised Statutes:
- Rape: Rape involves non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration, often involving 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: Sodomy charges involve engaging in 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 below the age of consent, even if the minor appears to consent. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17, and sexual activity with a minor under 14 can lead to 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. 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 offense includes the creation, distribution, or possession of sexually explicit images or videos of children under 18. In Republic, 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 Republic, MO, due to the power imbalance and the potential for exploiting the student.
These sex offenses can result in different levels of penalties based on factors like the victim’s age, the use and degree of force, the relationship between the parties involved, and any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense derail your life. The Republic, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers comprehend the gravity of these allegations and are ready to defend you. Give us a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Christian County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Christian County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Republic, MO: Penalties for Convictions
Penalties for a sex offense conviction in Republic, MO can include:
- Prison Time: Based on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the severity of the 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 Republic, 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: 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 Republic, MO area makes rebuilding your life challenging, even post-sentence.
Why You Need the Republic, 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 knowledgeable lawyers offer:
In-Depth Sex Offense Legal Expertise in Republic, MO
Our legal experts focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay informed about updates in Republic, MO and Missouri legislation and court rulings, making sure your defense is grounded in the most current legal standards in the state.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
A knowledgeable Republic, MO sex offense lawyer carefully reviews all evidence against you, such as any witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and formulate a strong defense strategy.
Defending Your Rights in Republic, MO
Maintaining your constitutional rights during the Republic, MO legal process is critical. Our seasoned sex offense lawyers will safeguard your rights at every stage – 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 challenging the validity of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea deals, our sex offense lawyers will craft a robust strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout Your Case in Republic, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers are genuinely concerned about their clients’ well-being and make an effort to understand your story. This can be an extremely stressful period in your life. Our compassionate Republic, MO sex offense attorneys not only provide sound legal advice and support, but also emotional assistance to help you and your family manage.
When you’re accused of a sex offense in or around Republic, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal sex offense lawyers in Republic, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed sex offense lawyers, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Republic, MO residents:

Sex Offense Lawyers in Republic, MO: Potential Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation anywhere near Republic, 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 defense strategies our expert sex offense lawyers utilize include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our legal team will look to prove that you were not the individual responsible for the 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 work to provide evidence that you were somewhere else when the crime took place.
- False Allegations: We can argue that the accuser may have other motivations 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 Republic, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Today
Facing sex offense charges in Republic, MO Republic, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and overwhelming situation. However, with skilled legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can safeguard your rights and future, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Give the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Republic, MO a call as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.

