Sex offense lawyers in University City, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in University City, 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 University City, MO: Comprehending Sex Offenses
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences, particularly in University City, MO and the surrounding areas. Understanding the legal landscape is essential for anyone facing such charges. Additionally, the long-lasting 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 a quick resolution.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in University City, 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 University City, MO: Types of Sex Crimes
Missouri law classifies sex offenses into several categories, each with specific definitions and associated 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 accompanied by force, threats, or incapacitation of the victim. As defined in RSMo. § 566.030, rape is a serious felony offense with prison sentences ranging from 5 years to life.
- Sodomy: The charge of sodomy involves 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 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 involves sexual intercourse with a minor below 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. Other forms of sexual misconduct are also illegal in and around University City, MO, but sexual misconduct with a minor is the most serious offense under RSMo. § 566.083, often 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 University City, 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 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 University City, MO, due to the power imbalance and the potential for exploiting the student.
These sex offenses can carry varying degrees of penalties based on factors such as the age of the victim, the use and degree of force, the nature of the relationship between the accused and the victim, and whether any aggravating circumstances are present. Don’t let a sex offense derail your life. The University City, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers understand the gravity of these charges and are ready to defend you. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Sex Offense Lawyers in University City, MO: Penalties for Convictions
Penalties for a sex offense conviction in University City, MO can 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 significant fines and court costs, as is the case with many criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: A conviction in the University City, MO area means you will likely need to register as a sex offender for life, impacting your employment, housing, and personal relationships.
- Damage to Your Reputation and Lasting Restrictions: A sex offense conviction in University City, MO can damage your reputation and harm the relationships in your life – whether it’s colleagues, romantic relationships, family members, or neighbors. The long-lasting or even permanent nature of sex offense convictions throughout the University City, MO area make it difficult to rebuild your life, even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the University City, 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:
In-Depth Sex Offense Legal Expertise in University City, MO
Our attorneys specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay informed about updates in University City, 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 knowledgeable University City, MO sex offense lawyer carefully reviews all evidence against you, such as witness statements, police reports, and forensic data, to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case and formulate a strong defense strategy.
Safeguarding Your Rights in University City, MO
Maintaining your constitutional rights during the University City, MO legal process is critical. Our seasoned 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.
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 deals, our sex offense lawyers will craft a robust strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout Your Case in University City, 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 can be an extremely stressful period in your life. Our empathetic University City, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal counsel and support, but also offer emotional guidance to help you and your family manage.
When you are accused of a sex offense in or around University City, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the best sex offense lawyers in University City, 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 University City, MO residents:
- 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 University City, MO: Potential Defense Strategies
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation in or around University City, MO, the Combs Waterkotte defense legal team is ready to help. Understanding the possible defenses that could be employed in your case is crucial. Some common defenses our experienced sex offense lawyers might employ 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 lawyers can establish that you were in a different location when the crime occurred.
- False Allegations: We can show that the accuser may have other motivations for making the allegation, such as financial gain, divorce, embarrassment, or a child custody dispute.
Facing Sex Offense Charges in Missouri? Contact the Top University City, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
Being accused of a sex offense in University City, MO or anywhere in Missouri is a serious and overwhelming situation. However, with the right 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 University City, MO right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost, confidential case review.
