Sex offense lawyers in Savannah, MO. Being accused or charged with a sex offense in Savannah, MO or anywhere else in Missouri can be a life-changing 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 Savannah, MO: Comprehending Sex Offenses
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in and around Savannah, MO. It is crucial to comprehend the legal landscape if you’re 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 Savannah, 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.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Savannah, MO: Sex Crimes in Savannah, 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 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 severe felony with potential 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 refers to deviate sexual intercourse with someone under 14 years old.
- Sexual Abuse/Assault: Sexual abuse or assault encompasses a range of abusive sexual behaviors, like unwanted touching or groping, which may not qualify as rape or sodomy but still involve exploitation and harm, and are criminal offenses.
- Statutory Rape: Statutory rape is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor below the legal age of 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: Charges of sexual misconduct with a minor involve engaging in sexual acts with a minor under 15, including exposing one’s genitals or coercing a minor to expose theirs. 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 Savannah, 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 offense usually involves sexual interactions between educators, school employees, or volunteers, and students in the same school district. Sexual contact with a student is viewed severely in Savannah, MO, due to the inherent power imbalance and risk of student exploitation.
These sex offenses can carry varying degrees of penalties based 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 devastate your life. The Savannah, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers comprehend the seriousness of these allegations and will defend you against them. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Andrew County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Andrew County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Savannah, MO: Penalties for Convictions
The consequences of a sex offense conviction in Savannah, MO may include:
- Prison Time: Depending on the Missouri sentencing guidelines and the gravity of your offense, you could be looking at a prison term of years or even life.
- Fines: You may have to pay significant fines and court costs, as is the case with many criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
- 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 Savannah, 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 Savannah, MO area makes rebuilding your life challenging, even post-sentence.
Why You Need the Savannah, 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 skilled attorneys provide:
Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in Savannah, MO
Our attorneys specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay informed about updates in Savannah, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, making sure your defense is grounded in the state’s most current legal standards.
Thorough Case Evaluation
A skilled Savannah, MO sex offense attorney meticulously examines all evidence against you, such as any witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case and build a sound defense strategy.
Protecting Your Rights in Savannah, MO
Making sure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Savannah, MO. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will defend your rights at every juncture – 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 bargains, our sex offense lawyers will craft a robust strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout Your Case in Savannah, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers are genuinely concerned about their clients’ well-being and make an effort to understand your story. This period of time can be incredibly stressful. Our compassionate Savannah, MO sex offense attorneys not only provide sound legal counsel 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 Savannah, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the best sex offense lawyers in Savannah, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting 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 Savannah, MO residents:
- Drivers License Reinstatement Attorney
- Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
- Weapons Crime Attorney
- DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
Sex Offense Lawyers in Savannah, MO: Possible Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation anywhere near Savannah, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense legal team is ready to help. Knowing the potential defenses available can be crucial to your case. Some common defense strategies our expert sex offense lawyers use include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our attorneys will work to prove that you were not the individual responsible for the crime.
- Consent: We can present evidence showing that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity, supported by factual evidence and background investigation of the accuser.
- Alibi: Our lawyers can gather and present evidence proving that you were elsewhere when the crime took place.
- False Allegations: We can argue 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 Savannah, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
Being accused of a sex offense in Savannah, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and stressful experience. However, with the right legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can defend your rights and future, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Savannah, MO right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.