Texas Sex Crime Lawyers In Houston
Sex crimes are among the most gravely viewed offenses. These crimes not only carry severe penalties but also have long-lasting consequences for the accused, even if they are eventually exonerated. If you’re currently accused of committing a sex crime of any kind, our Houston sex crime lawyers are here to help. Contact The Sparks Law Firm, PC, today.
Have you been charged with a sex crime? If so, you’re most likely worried about staying out of jail and keeping your reputation intact. Our Texas criminal defense lawyers are here to help.
Types Of Sex Crimes In Texas
Texas law categorizes various offenses under the umbrella of sex crimes. Some of the most common include:
- Sexual assault: This involves intentionally or knowingly causing the penetration of another person without their consent. It also encompasses causing a person to penetrate another without consent.
- Aggravated sexual assault: This is a more severe form of sexual assault involving factors like the use of a deadly weapon, causing serious bodily injury, or committing a crime against a child under 14.
- Indecency with a child: This crime involves engaging in sexual contact with a child or exposing oneself to a child with the intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire.
- Prostitution: Knowingly offering or agreeing to receive a fee from another to engage in sexual conduct.
- Public lewdness: Engaging in sexual intercourse or deviant sexual intercourse in a public place.
- Obscenity: Promoting or possessing with the intent to promote any obscene material or device.
Penalties For Sex Crimes In Texas
The penalties for sex crimes in Texas vary based on the type and severity of the crime. That said, an overview of penalties for various sex crimes in Texas is as follows:
- Sexual assault: This is typically a second-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Aggravated sexual assault: Classified as a first-degree felony, it can lead to life imprisonment, especially if the victim is under 6 years old or younger than 14 and serious bodily injury occurs.
- Indecency with a child: This can be a second or third-degree felony, depending on the circumstances, with penalties ranging from 2 to 20 years in prison.
- Prostitution: This can range from a Class B misdemeanor for first-time offenders (up to 180 days in jail) to a state jail felony for repeat offenders.
- Public lewdness: This is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail.
- Obscenity: Depending on the specifics, this can be a Class A misdemeanor or a state jail felony.
Beyond the immediate legal penalties, those convicted of sex crimes often face societal ostracization, difficulties in securing employment and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Potential Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges
Every case is unique, but some common defenses in sex crime cases include:
- Consent: Arguing that the alleged victim gave clear and voluntary consent.
- Mistaken identity: The accused was not the actual perpetrator.
- Alibi: Providing evidence that the accused was elsewhere when the crime occurred.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution’s evidence is not strong enough to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Age: In some cases, if both parties are close in age, it might be a defense against statutory rape charges.
- False accusations: Arguing that the alleged victim has a motive to lie or misrepresent the events.
Contact Our Texas Sex Crime Lawyers Today
Sex crimes in Texas are serious offenses with potentially life-altering consequences. It’s crucial for anyone facing such charges to be well-informed about the statutes, penalties and potential defenses. Engaging a seasoned Texas criminal defense lawyer with a deep knowledge of Texas sex crime laws can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case. Remember, every individual is entitled to a robust defense and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.