Can a 17-Year-Old Legally Date a 20-Year-Old in Missouri?
Yes, a 17-year-old can legally date a 20-year-old in Missouri. There are no state laws governing who may date whom or at what age. However, Missouri does have laws that regulate sexual activity with young people under 17. Here’s what you need to know about those laws and how a sex crime defense attorney can […]
Read MoreWhat Is the Jail Time for Sexual Assault in Missouri?
Sexual assault and related offenses in Missouri carry severe penalties, including the potential for a life sentence in some cases. If you face charges related to sexual assault or similar crimes, talk to a St. Louis sex crimes defense attorney right away. Penalties for Sexual Assault in Missouri The penalties for sexual assault in Missouri […]
Read MoreHow an Attorney Defends Against Rape and Sexual Assault Charges in Missouri
Rape and sexual assault charges carry some of the harshest criminal penalties under Missouri law. Not only will a conviction for a sex crime send you to jail for a long time, but you could also lose your job or housing, and you might have to register as a sexual offender. Working with an experienced […]
Read MoreI Was Charged with a Minor Sexual Battery. What Do I Do Next?
Sex offenses involving minors, including statutory rape and child molestation, carry some of the harshest criminal penalties under Missouri law. Depending on the offense, you could be facing the rest of your life in prison if you’re convicted. If the police have accused you of illegal sex acts involving a minor, working with a St. […]
Read MoreWhat Is Deviate Sexual Assault in Missouri?
Have the police arrested you for deviate sexual assault? Understanding these serious charges can help you protect your rights and interests in the criminal justice system and pursue the best possible resolution to your criminal case. Understanding Missouri’s Deviate Sexual Assault Statute In Missouri, deviate sexual assault falls under the crime of sodomy. Under the […]
Read MoreWhat Is a Character Witness and How Are They Used in Sexual Assault Cases?
As you and your attorney build a defense case to fight sexual assault charges, you may consider calling character witnesses to support your case in various ways. A character witness refers to a person who provides testimony in a trial regarding the conduct, moral traits, or reputation of a party in the case. Character witness […]
Read MoreWhat Is the Most Common Defense for Sexual Assault?
The most common defense against sexual assault allegations in Missouri is that the alleged victim consented to the sexual contact. Consent is a crucial factor in determining whether a sexual assault occurred, as Missouri defines sexual assault as sexual contact without the other party’s consent. If you’re facing charges of sexual assault and wish to […]
Read MoreRichard Sindel Selected as a Super Lawyer
Richard H. Sindel has been selected as a top-rated criminal defense attorney in St. Louis, Missouri, for 2024 by Super Lawyers. This recognition marks the 20th consecutive year that Mr. Sindel has earned this distinction, underscoring his legal knowledge and dedication to helping clients charged with crimes in Missouri. Mr. Sindel is a trusted figure […]
Read MoreWhat Evidence Is Necessary for a Conviction in a Sexual Assault Trial?
In Missouri’s criminal justice system, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a defendant committed every element of a sexual assault charge to secure a conviction from a jury or bench trial. As a result, the prosecution must present compelling evidence to resolve doubts about a defendant’s guilt. Some of the most common […]
Read MoreWhat Is Sexual Exploitation of a Minor in Missouri?
Missouri criminal law prohibits people from creating child pornography or sexually explicit materials featuring minors. Although other laws prohibit the possession and distribution of child pornography, individuals who produce child pornography may also face criminal liability under charges of sexual exploitation of a minor. Understanding Sexual Exploitation of a Minor Under Missouri Law Under Missouri […]
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