St. Louis sex crime attorney focused on your defense
Discreet, aggressive representation for sensitive charges
Experienced defense for all sex offenses
Accusations of rape, sexual assault, child molestation, or possession of child pornography carry intense stigma and some of the harshest penalties in Missouri. The Law Offices of Stephen A. Zarky approaches these cases with careful investigation and a determined courtroom strategy. As a sex offense lawyer in St. Louis, Stephen provides confidential guidance from the first call, whether your case starts with an interview request, a surprise warrant, or formal charges in Clayton or downtown. He has taken difficult sex offense cases to trial when that is the right path, and he will make the State meet its burden beyond a reasonable doubt.
What convictions can mean in Missouri
Missouri sex crime penalties and lasting consequences
A conviction for a sex offense often involves significant prison time and mandatory registration on the sex offender registry. Penalties vary by the charge and the facts, but even lesser offenses can bring lifetime restrictions on where you live, work, and travel. In courts across St. Louis County, the City of St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson, and Franklin, outcomes hinge on early strategy, preservation of evidence, and a defense that addresses credibility and proof at each stage.
How Stephen Zarky defends sex crime cases
Protecting rights, privacy, and the path to trial
01.
Protecting Your Rights And Privacy
From day one, Stephen moves to protect constitutional rights and your privacy. He reviews how interviews, searches, and lineups were conducted and pursues suppression where police procedures violated the law. Communication remains discreet and professional throughout.
02.
Investigative Approach
Many sex crime cases turn on credibility. Stephen works with investigators to secure texts, messages, location data, medical records, and any available video. When accusations arise during a breakup or custody dispute, he identifies motives to lie and inconsistencies that can change the case.
03.
Expert Witnesses And Resources
When needed, Stephen consults forensic experts to analyze DNA, digital evidence, and exam findings. He prepares every matter as if a jury will decide it, which strengthens negotiations and ensures the defense is ready if trial is the best option.
When related allegations include injury or threats, it can help to review strategies used in violent crimes cases to coordinate defenses across counts filed in the same court.
A trial lawyer who will fight for you
Standing between you and a rushed plea
Some attorneys push quick pleas in sex offense cases because the stakes feel overwhelming. Stephen evaluates every offer, explains real risks, and prepares to try the case when a plea does not align with your goals. His reputation as a trial lawyer signals to prosecutors that the defense is prepared to present your side to a jury in St. Louis County or the City of St. Louis.
Questions people ask about sex crime charges
Straight answers for urgent decisions
What if the allegation is false?
False or exaggerated reports do happen. Stephen focuses on credibility, prior statements, messages, and any timeline gaps. He pursues evidence that supports your account and exposes motives to fabricate.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
Most sex offense convictions require registry, often with long-term restrictions. Avoiding a qualifying conviction is a central goal, whether through dismissal, reduction, or trial.
Can these cases be resolved without trial?
Sometimes. Weak evidence can lead to dismissals or meaningful reductions. Because stakes are high, Stephen prepares as if a jury will hear the case, which can improve negotiations.
People researching these topics often compare broader criminal defense strategies to understand how motions, investigations, and trial settings work across different charges in Missouri courts.
Take immediate action
Confidential help before you speak to investigators
If you are under investigation or charged, do not make statements without legal counsel. Call 314-852-5995 or request a confidential meeting. The Law Offices of Stephen A. Zarky will move quickly to protect your rights, preserve evidence, and guide the next steps toward the best possible result.