![]() The next day, the man finds out that the woman is only 16 years old and immediately stops contact with her. They have a few drinks and end up going back to his place, where they engage in consensual sexual activity. Let’s say that a 20-year-old man meets a woman at a bar, and they hit it off. For instance, if the alleged victim claims that they were too scared to resist the defendant’s advances, but their social media activity shows that they were engaging in risky behavior or making sexual comments, this could cast doubt on their credibility.įurthermore, in some cases, the accused might be able to argue that they genuinely did not know the victim’s age at the time of the incident. For example, they may look for evidence that the alleged victim has a history of making false accusations or that they have a motive to lie, such as a desire for attention or a grudge against the defendant.Īdditionally, the attorney may investigate the alleged victim’s background, such as their social media accounts or online activity, to look for evidence that contradicts their claims. If the attorney believes that the alleged victim’s claims are false, they may also look for evidence that supports this theory. They may also look for evidence that contradicts the alleged victim’s story, such as witness statements or physical evidence. ![]() The attorney may start by interviewing the alleged victim to determine whether their story is consistent and whether there are any inconsistencies in their statements. The attorney may conduct an investigation to gather evidence to support this theory. The defendant denies these claims and believes that the alleged victim is lying. Let’s say that the alleged victim in the case is a minor who claims that the defendant engaged in sexual activity with them. False accusation: An experienced attorney can help you gather evidence to prove that the alleged victim’s claims are false or fabricated.Īn experienced attorney can use a variety of tactics to gather evidence to prove that the alleged victim’s claims are false or fabricated in a statutory rape case.Lack of knowledge of the victim’s age: In some cases, the accused might be able to argue that they genuinely did not know the victim’s age at the time of the incident.Romeo and Juliet Law: In Missouri, there is a close-in-age exemption, also known as the Romeo and Juliet Law, which allows for consensual sex between a minor who is between 14 and 17 years old and a defendant who is younger than 21.There are several possible defenses that a skilled attorney can explore, depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Is There Any Way to Defend against Statutory Rape in Missouri? They can also challenge the prosecution’s case and work to prove your innocence. If your case goes to trial, your lawyer can mount a strong defense on your behalf by cross-examining witnesses, presenting evidence, and making arguments to the judge or jury. ![]() They can also work to mitigate the potential consequences of a conviction by advocating for lesser penalties or alternative sentencing options. In some cases, a criminal defense lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution to reach a plea bargain or reduced charges. They can interview witnesses, review police reports, and examine physical evidence to determine if there are any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. ![]() Your lawyer can investigate the circumstances of the alleged offense and gather evidence to build a strong defense on your behalf. They can also help you understand your Miranda rights, including your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Sexual activity with someone who is under the age of 17 can be considered statutory rape, even if the younger person consents.Ī criminal defense lawyer can help protect your rights and mount a strong defense if you are accused of statutory rape.Ī criminal defense lawyer can explain the charges against you and the potential consequences, including the penalties you could face if convicted. The age of consent for sexual activity under Missouri consent laws is 17 years old. What Is the Age of Consent for Sex in Missouri? ![]()
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