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Child Molestation Protecting Your Rights & Defending Your Future

Defense for Child Molestation Charges in St. Louis

Call (314) 334-3807 for Aggressive Defense in Missouri

Make no mistake, sex crimes involving children are typically the most aggressively prosecuted and harshly punished. Child molestation allegations often garner media attention and may threaten the accused's career, personal relationships, and reputation. In the face of such a serious matter, the best chance one has is involving a criminal defense law firm that has experience in dealing with sex crimes and has successfully secured dismissals and acquittals in even the most complex cases. Only a powerful defense strategy will work against child molestation charges, and The Hammer Law Firm, LLC is prepared to provide such legal counsel.

Representing clients in St. Louis and across Missouri, the team at our firm is committed to protecting our clients' legal rights without judgment. Through our efforts, we have been able to help clients in the face of various sex crime allegations and charges, helping them face brighter futures. If you have been accused of child molestation or any similar offense, our early involvement may be just what you need to avoid formal charges in the first place.

Take advantage of this opportunity to find out how we can handle your unique case by arranging a consultation or continue reading to learn more about child molestation charges in Missouri.

Missouri Revised Statutes §§ 566.067-566.068: Child Molestation

Under Missouri law, a defendant may face child molestation charges in the first degree or the second degree, with varying penalties depending on the specifics of the alleged act or acts:

  • Missouri Revised Statutes § 566.067 defines child molestation in the first degree as subjecting a child under the age of 14 to sexual contact. Sexual contact may include touching another with one's genitals or touching another's genitals, anus or breasts, for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification.
  • Child molestation in the second degree is described in Missouri Revised Statutes § 566.068 as subjecting a child under the age of 17 to sexual contact.

Child molestation in the first degree is a class B felony, punishable by a minimum of 5 years to 15 years in state prison. If the victim is less than 12 years old and the accused has a previous sex crime conviction, inflicted serious injury, used a deadly weapon or committed the offense as part of a ritual or ceremony, child molestation may be charged as a class A felony punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Child molestation in the second degree is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. If the accused has a previous sex crime conviction, inflicts serious bodily injury or uses a deadly weapon or commits the offense as part of a ritual or ceremony, child molestation may be charged as a class D felony, punishable by up to 4 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

In addition to facing imprisonment and fines, a defendant convicted of child molestation may face mandatory sex offender registration for life.

Challenging Child Molestation Charges in Missouri

At times, child molestation charges may stem from entirely false and fabricated accusations. For reasons of anger, revenge or even in a custody battle, an adult or a child may make false claims of abuse. Some child molestation charges may even occur as a result of a simple misunderstanding or miscommunication. These are extremely sensitive cases that require a strategic yet aggressive approach if the accused is to have a chance of avoiding a conviction and the serious penalties this carries.

To find out what steps you can take against child molestation allegations or charges, contact our firm. We are prepared to offer insight that can help you make informed choices.

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    "Thank God for Mark Hammer"

    I cannot begin to explain in words how thankful I am that I contacted the Hammer Law Firm when I found myself facing criminal legal charges. I and my family will always be grateful beyond words for the role that Mark Hammer and The Hammer Law Firm played i

    - Former Client
    "Mark and Nicole are the best law firm partners ever."

    They are professional, courteous, and respectful to both the courts and their clients. This team of professionals is not in business just for the money, they are truly out to help their clients.

    - C.E.
    "He is a gentleman, exudes confidence and relieves stress with his truth."

    After a thorough review, Mark began to address every legal issue confronting our son, he had already done his homework, which began to bring sanity back into our family as we sat there.

    - Ken
    "Phenomenal Experience!!"

    We contacted Mark Hammer for help with our son. Mark was truly amazing! He worked hard for our son, was always a text or phone call away, and we could not have asked (or predicted) a better outcome! Absolutely in awe of him.

    - D.C.
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    Thank you so much, Nicole. I have faith and believe everything that's happening is for a reason. I know everything will be fine and I believe you are going to do everything you can and I'm very grateful for it.

    - C.G.
    "I could not have imagined getting through this difficult and uncertain time without the help of the Hammer Law Firm."

    I absolutely recommend Mark and Nicole to anyone who is needing more than a lawyer, but people who do genuinely care about you and who want to get the best possible outcome to get you through this difficult time.

    - E.M.
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    I just wanted to thank you again for your compassion, kindness, and support given to my family throughout this ordeal.  I thank the Hammer Law Firm for not only giving my son his life back but his family as well.

    - Former Client
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    I feel that you were not just our attorneys, but a friend that stood beside us through it all. I could call anytime, day or night, and you were there, even when times were bad for you.

    - V.H.

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.