Sex offense lawyers in Washington County, MO. Being accused of – or charged with – a sex offense in Washington County, 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 Washington County, MO: Recognizing Sex Offenses in the Washington County, MO Area
Sex offenses are serious crimes with severe consequences anywhere, but especially in the Washington County, MO area. Understanding the legal landscape is essential for anyone facing such charges. Additionally, the enduring shadow of doubt or shame cast by an accusation of a sexual offense is enough to want to get this quickly resolved.
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Washington County, MO possess a unique combination of hands-on experience, resources, availability, communication skills, and empathy. Our exceptional record and over 275 reviews are testament to our capabilities.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Washington County, MO: Types of Sex Crimes
Missouri law defines sex offenses into various categories, each with unique definitions and corresponding penalties. The following are some of the most common sex offenses under the Missouri Revised Statutes:
- Rape: Rape includes 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 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 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 crime entails producing, distributing, or possessing sexually explicit materials featuring minors. In Washington County, 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 Washington County, 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 such as the age of the victim, the extent of force used, the relationship between you and the victim, and whether any aggravating circumstances are present. Don’t let a sex offense derail your life. The Washington County, MO Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers comprehend the gravity of these charges and will defend you against them. Call us right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Washington County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Washington County and Missouri.
Sex Offense Lawyers in Washington County, MO: Penalties for Convictions
The consequences of a sex offense conviction in Washington County, 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: Similar to many other criminal felony and misdemeanor charges, substantial fines and court costs could be imposed.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: If you’re convicted of a sex offense in the Washington County, 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 sex offense conviction in Washington County, 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 Washington County, MO area make it difficult to rebuild your life, even after serving your sentence.
Why You Need the Washington County, 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 offer:
Expert Sex Offense Legal Knowledge in Washington County, MO
Our legal experts specialize in the nuances of sex crime laws. They stay current on changes in Washington County, MO and Missouri legislation and court decisions, ensuring your defense is grounded in the state’s most recent legal standards.
Thorough Case Evaluation
A knowledgeable Washington County, MO sex offense lawyer carefully scrutinizes all evidence against you, including any witness statements, police reports, and forensic information, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and formulate a strong defense strategy.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Washington County, MO
Ensuring your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process is essential in Washington County, MO. Our seasoned sex offense lawyers will protect your rights at every stage – from interrogations and investigations to court proceedings if necessary. Give our legal team a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Tailored Defense Strategies
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 formulate a solid strategy that fits your particular circumstances.
Emotional and Psychological Support Throughout the Duration of Your Case in Washington County, MO
The Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers show genuine care for 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 compassionate Washington County, MO sex offense attorneys offer not only expert legal counsel and support, but also emotional guidance which can help you and your family manage.
When you’re accused of a sex offense in or around Washington County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the best sex offense lawyers in Washington County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our seasoned sex offense lawyers, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Washington County and beyond:
Sex Offense Lawyers in Washington County, MO: Potential Defenses
If you’re facing a sex offense accusation near Washington County, 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 defenses our experienced sex offense lawyers use include:
- Mistaken Identity: Our lawyers will work to prove that you were not the individual responsible for the 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 attorneys can establish that you were in a different location 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? Contact the Top Washington County, MO Sex Offense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
Facing sex offense charges in Washington County, MO Washington County, 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 protect your rights and future, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Call the Combs Waterkotte sex offense lawyers in Washington County, MO immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.