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Statutory Rape Protecting Your Rights & Defending Your Future

St. Louis Statutory Rape Defense Attorney

MRS §566.032-4: Statutory Rape in the First and Second Degree

In Missouri, it is a crime for an adult to engage in sexual intercourse with a minor, regardless if the minor was a consenting participant. For this reason, the Missouri Revised Statutes §566.032 states that a person can be charged with statutory rape in the first degree if he or she has, or attempts to have, "sexual intercourse with another person who is less than 14 years old."

If the offender was at least 21 years old when he or she engaged in sexual intercourse with a minor under the age of 17, he or she could be charged with statutory rape in the second degree. Given that this is considered to be a statutory offense, the prosecution does not need to prove that the defendant used force. An individual cannot legally provide consent until he or she has reached the age of adulthood, thereby making it illegal for an adult to have sex with a minor even without the use of force or coercion.

We Can Fight for Your Rights in St. Louis, Missouri

Lawmakers in Missouri are particularly harsh on people who have been accused of sexual deviance. In fact, statutory rape in the first degree is a felony sex crime for which the authorized term of imprisonment is five years to life. The minimum term of imprisonment can be extended to ten years if:

  • The defendant displayed a deadly weapon
  • The defendant inflicted serious injury
  • The defendant subjected the victim to sexual intercourse with more than one person

Even a conviction for statutory rape in the second degree could result in up to seven years behind bars.

What Are My Defense Options?

If you’ve been accused of statutory rape, you do have options. The St. Louis sex crime attorneys at The Hammer Law Firm, LLC may be able to use one of the following defenses in your case:

  • You did not know or could not have reasonably known the age of the victim
  • The alleged sexual intercourse did not take place
  • Duress
  • Mental incapacity

Contact The Hammer Law Firm, LLC Today

We provide initial case evaluations that are free and absolutely confidential. Our lawyers are standing by to take your call and listen to your case.

If you or someone you care about has been charged with statutory rape, contact the The Hammer Law Firm, LLC today. Our St. Louis criminal  lawyers are prepared to go the distance in defense of your rights.

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WHY TRUST OUR ST. LOUIS CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAW FIRM?

What Makes Us Different
  • One-On-One Attention
    We work directly with you to determine the best possible outcome based on your goals and needs. We then create personalized legal strategies to set your case up for success.
  • Accessibility & Availability
    Our attorneys pride ourselves on always being available to address any questions you have regarding your case. With our team, you aren't just a number.
  • Unique Legal Insight
    As former prosecutors who know how the 'other side' operates, we have a unique insight that allows us to set our client's cases up for success.
  • Experienced Legal Counsel
    The Hammer Law Firm, LLC team has more than 60 years of combined criminal law experience. We have the tools, knowledge, and resources to effectively advocate on your behalf.
protecting You & Your Future Former Prosecutors With Over 60 Years of Combined Experience

When you want personal support and proven representation, you need to bring The Hammer Law Firm, LLC to the fight.