Sex offense lawyers in Springfield, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in Springfield, MO or anywhere else in Missouri for that matter can be a life-altering experience. The stigma and potential legal consequences, coupled with social and professional impacts, underscore the necessity of having an experienced and tenacious sex offense lawyer by 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
Everything You Need To Know About Federal Criminal Charges
Featured on Hexxen Studios, Chris Combs and Andrew Russek sat down to talk about federal criminal charges. In this video, you can learn about different types of federal charges, how they differ …
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 …
Everything You Need To Know About Federal Criminal Charges
Featured on Hexxen Studios, Chris Combs and Andrew Russek sat down to talk about federal criminal charges. In this video, you can learn about different types of federal charges, how they differ …
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 Springfield, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses in the Springfield, MO Area
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in the Springfield, MO area. Understanding the legal landscape is essential for anyone facing such 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 Springfield, MO have an ideal blend of practical experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our exceptional record and over 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.
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Sex Offense Lawyers in Springfield, 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 under the Missouri Revised Statutes:
- Rape: Rape entails non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration, often involving force, threats, or incapacitation of the victim. As per 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 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. 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 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 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 Springfield, 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 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 Springfield, 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 carry varying degrees 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 the presence of any aggravating circumstances. Don’t let a sex offense devastate your life. The Springfield, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers understand the seriousness of these allegations and will provide a robust defense. Call us right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Greene County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Greene County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Springfield, MO: Penalties for Convictions
The consequences of a sex offense conviction in Springfield, MO may include:
- Prison Time: Based 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: 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 Springfield, 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 Springfield, MO area makes it difficult to restore your life even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Springfield, 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 knowledgeable lawyers offer:
In-Depth Sex Offense Legal Expertise in Springfield, MO
Our attorneys focus on the intricate details of sex crime laws. They stay current on changes in Springfield, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, ensuring your defense is based on the state’s most current legal standards.
Thorough Case Analysis
A skilled Springfield, MO sex offense attorney meticulously examines all evidence against you, such as witness statements, police reports, and forensic information, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build a sound defense strategy.
Protecting Your Rights in Springfield, MO
Making sure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Springfield, MO. Our experienced sex offense lawyers will protect your rights at every stage – during interrogations, investigations, and, if necessary, court proceedings. Reach out to our legal team now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Strategic Defense Planning
Every case is unique and demands a customized defense strategy. Whether it’s challenging the credibility of evidence, presenting alibis, or negotiating plea deals, our sex offense lawyers will develop a sound strategy suited to your specific circumstances.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout the Duration of Your Case in Springfield, 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 Springfield, 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 facing a sex offense charge in or around Springfield, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the leading sex offense lawyers in Springfield, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable sex offense lawyers, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Springfield, MO residents:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
Sex Offense Lawyers in Springfield, MO: Potential Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation anywhere near Springfield, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense lawyers are prepared to assist. Understanding the possible defenses that could be employed in your case is crucial. Some common defenses 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 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 show that the accuser may have ulterior motives for making the allegation, like financial gain, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Connect With the Leading Springfield, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Today
Facing sex offense charges in Springfield, MO Springfield, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and overwhelming experience. However, with skilled legal representation – like the sex offense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte – you can safeguard your rights and future, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Springfield, MO right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost, no-obligation case review.
