Missouri Sex Crime FAQ

Kansas City Criminal Attorney Provides Answers To Your Questions About Sex Crime Charges

Facing sex crime charges in Kansas City or elsewhere in Missouri is daunting. It leaves you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your future. At The Law Office of Andrew T. Christie, LLC, I understand the gravity of the situation and am dedicated to providing clear guidance and steadfast support.

With a solid track record in the courtroom, I, attorney Andrew T. Christie, am here to make sense of the complex legal process and stand by your side every step of the way. Please start by reading up on some answers to frequently asked questions about Missouri sex crimes.

How Does Missouri Law Define The Age Of Consent?

In Missouri, the age of consent is 17 years old. This means individuals 17 or older can legally participate in sexual activities. Persons below this age lack the legal capacity to consent to sexual acts. Any sexual activity between an adult over the age of 18 and a minor under the age of 17 is against the law.

What Are Some Examples Of Sex Crimes In Missouri?

Missouri law recognizes various sex crimes, which include:

• Rape charges: Forced sexual intercourse. Also applicable when the victim cannot consent due to age or incapacity.
• Statutory rape: Intercourse with someone under the age of consent, irrespective of the minor’s apparent agreement.
• Sexual assault: Encompasses all nonconsensual sexual contact or behavior.
• Child molestation: Involves sexual acts with a child who is below a certain age or unable to consent.
• Sexual misconduct: Involves public indecency or lewd acts.
• Sexual trafficking: The act of exploiting an individual for sexual purposes through various means.
• Possession or distribution of child pornography: Relates to handling material depicting minors in explicit situations.
• Sexual abuse: Nonconsensual sex acts, often involving force or against someone incapable of consenting.

Each charge carries serious implications and demands a serious defense.

What Are The Penalties Of A Sex Crime Conviction In Missouri?

The consequences of a sex crime conviction can be severe, including:

• Imprisonment: Sentences can range from months to life, depending on the crime.
• Fines: Monetary penalties, usually in the thousands of dollars.
• Mandatory sex offender registration: A requirement that can affect careers, education and more.
• Probation: Court-ordered supervision in the community.
• Counseling: Mandatory participation in treatment programs.
• Other restrictions: May include imitations on residence and employment opportunities.

These penalties can have a lasting impact on your life, which is why a strong defense is critical.

Are There Different Levels Or Classes Of Sex Crimes In Missouri?

Missouri categorizes sex crimes into different levels, reflecting the severity and circumstances of the offense. Here is an overview:

• Class A felony: For grave crimes, possibly involving very young victims. Sentences can be as severe as life imprisonment.
• Class B felony: For offenses with victims under 14 or involving force, with a prison range of 5 to 15 years.
• Class C felony: For crimes without aggravating factors, with potential imprisonment of 3 to 10 years.
• Class D felony: For serious crimes, less severe than A-C, with up to 7 years in prison.
• Class E felony: The least severe felonies, still carrying up to 4 years of imprisonment.
• Misdemeanors: Varying from infractions to Class A misdemeanors, the latter carrying up to 1 year in jail.

Understanding these distinctions is essential for a tailored defense strategy.

What Should I Do If I Am Accused Of A Sex Crime In Missouri?

If accused in Kansas City or anywhere in Missouri, it’s crucial to seek counsel immediately. As your defense lawyer, I’ll work to protect your rights and build a strong defense. I have a long record of favorable results, from dismissed charges and reduced sentences to acquittals.

What Defenses Are Available To Someone Charged With A Sex Crime In Missouri?

All is not lost if you have a sex crime arrest. Depending on the specifics of your case, possible defenses may include:

• Consent: The claim that the accuser consented to the sexual activity in question.
• Mistake of age: Belief that the victim was above the age of consent.
• Alibi: Proof that you weren’t present when the alleged crime occurred.
• Insufficient evidence: The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and they must meet it fully.
• False accusation: Sometimes, the accuser’s motives lead to false allegations against an innocent person.
• Mistaken identity: You weren’t the perpetrator, and the true one is still out there.
• Suppression of evidence: Law enforcement or the prosecution obtained evidence illegally or left certain evidence out.
• Mental incapacity or insanity: Mental state may serve as a defense if the accused lacked mental capacity or was legally insane.

Having used these defenses successfully, I know how to navigate them to your advantage.

How Do I Register As A Sex Offender In Missouri, And What Does That Entail?

Registration involves providing personal information to law enforcement and adhering to restrictions on residence and employment. The process can be complex; if you make an error or fail to complete a step, you may face severe penalties. Fortunately, I can guide you through it.

Can A Sex Crime Conviction Be Expunged From My Record In Missouri?

While Missouri offers expungement for certain felonies and misdemeanors, it does not offer expungement for sex crimes. Even so, if you have other offenses on your record connected to a sexual offense, I may be able to help you expunge these from your public record.

Get More Answers From A Kansas City Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

When facing the complexities of a sex crime charge, you need a guide who will approach your case with the attention and dedication it deserves. I am committed to advocating for your rights and pursuing a positive outcome. If you need a skilled sex crimes attorney to represent you, contact The Law Office of Andrew T. Christie, LLC, at 816-533-3456 or send me an email to schedule a consultation. Let’s address your legal challenges together.