Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 26, 2018
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Missouri law prohibits all forms of non-consensual sexual acts, including oral, vaginal, and anal intercourse as well as contact with any private parts and the hands, mouth, etc. The legal term for the prohibited sexual act depends on the anatomy involved and whether penetration or intercourse occurred. For example, rape is defined as a man inserting his penis into a woman's vagina, while touching a breast would be called "sexual abuse." Higher penalties are assessed when weapons or other force is involved and when the victim is a child.
Children are considered too young to consent to certain sexual conduct in Missouri. Even if a child claims to consent to the sexual act, it's illegal. This is called "statutory rape" or "statutory sodomy." These acts are considered rape under the law even if the minor doesn't believe it to be rape.
If you're accused of committing any sex crime, you should seek the advice of a local Missouri sex crime defense attorney or a public defender. An experience attorney can help determine what defense strategy is best for you. Several of the possible defenses include:
The Missouri rape, sodomy, and sexual Abuse laws are outlined in the table below. For more information, see the FindLaw Sex Crimes section.
Code Sections |
Missouri Chapter 566: Sexual Offenses
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Penalty Levels |
Penalties vary depending on the conduct committed, the force used, and the age of the victim:
|
Penalties |
Punishments for felonies and misdemeanors in Missouri vary by class. The penalty ranges by offense class are:
Sex Offender Registry: In addition to any prison sentence and fines you may incur, you will almost certainly be placed on the national sex offender registry which has a serious impact on where you can live, where you can work, and what your neighbors and friends will think of you when they find you on the registry. For several years to the rest of your life, you'd need to check in with your local police on a regular basis. |
Civil Case |
Sexual battery (harmful or offensive sexual touching) can result in the victim suing their abuser. A civil lawsuit for financial compensation is separate from any criminal case for the sexual offenses. If you're a victim of sexual assault, you may want to consult with a personal injury attorney about suing your abuser. If you've been accused of a sexual crime, be aware that a civil suit is possible and you may need to hire a civil defense attorney in addition to your criminal defense attorney or public defender. |
Note: State laws are constantly changing -- it's important to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Rape and sexual assault crimes carry some of the most serious penalties on the books. For this reason, if you've been charged with violating Missouri rape and sexual assault laws, it's in your best interest to reach out to a skilled local sex crime attorney who can help you understand the possible penalties if you're convicted, can try to negotiate a plea agreement on your behalf, and represent you in court, if necessary.
Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.
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