Rape Attorney in Galveston County, TX
Some of the harshest criminal penalties in Texas are reserved for defendants convicted of committing rape. Prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions in these types of cases, which is why anyone charged with rape should hire a Galveston County rape lawyer to defend them in court. The right defense strategy can greatly influence the outcome of your case and shield you from the consequences of a felony conviction.
Strong Legal Advocates Representing Defendants in Galveston County
Facing rape charges without strong legal representation could be a costly mistake. The Galveston County criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates bring over 30 years of collective experience helping defendants avoid a serious criminal conviction for rape and other felonies. We understand the stress that you are going through and are committed to providing you with the results-driven legal services you need to protect your future and reputation.
Our founding attorney, Tad Nelson, is a former state prosecutor who understands how the local criminal courts operate, and our esteemed associate attorney brings her own unique insights from her past career as a JAG officer. Together, they handle some of the most complex criminal cases in the region, focusing on delivering results in court, whether that be reduced or dropped charges.
Understanding Rape Charges in Galveston County
Sexual assault is a serious offense that can land a convicted defendant with confinement at a prison like Mark W. Stiles Unit, 3060 FM 3514, Beaumont, TX 77705. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, there were 18,307 offense counts of sexual assault reported in 2023 under NIBRS categories.
In Galveston County, rape is included in the county’s violent crime rate average of 3.775 per 1,000 residents. A notable case in 2023 involved a man known as “Wolf,” who was sentenced to 15 years in prison for sexually assaulting a homeless woman in Galveston in 2019.
DNA evidence confirmed his involvement and supported the victim’s testimony. Anyone arrested for sexual assault would likely be booked and processed at Galveston County Jail, 5700 Avenue H, Galveston, TX 77551.
Effective Defense Strategies for Fighting Rape Charges
Being charged with sexual assault can lead to a lengthy prison sentence if you are convicted. The right legal defense strategy can protect you from those penalties. One approach could focus on arguing that you were misidentified. Unless prosecutors have compelling evidence linking you to the scene of the crime at the time of the incident, your lawyer could argue that the state cannot meet its burden of proof.
Another strategy could consider whether the victim consented to the sexual acts and whether you reasonably believed that the acts were consensual. Consent plays a critical role in rape cases, and any steps your lawyer takes to cast doubt on the prosecution’s narratives could position you for a favorable resolution to your case in Galveston County, TX.
Why You Should Hire a Galveston County Rape Lawyer?
Given the harsh and potentially life-altering rape penalties in Texas, anyone facing this serious sex crime should take decisive action and hire a rape lawyer to represent them in court. A Galveston County rape attorney brings years of experience handling complex rape cases and securing favorable outcomes for clients.
No two cases are the same, which is why working with an experienced criminal defense attorney matters. Based on their years of experience, criminal defense attorneys can focus on filing motions to suppress evidence, strategically negotiate with prosecutors, or prepare for trial, all with your interests in mind.
FAQs About Rape Charges
What Is the Legal Definition of Rape in Galveston County?
Texas does not use the word “rape” in its penal code but instead defines the crime as sexual assault under Penal Code Sec. 22.011. A person commits sexual assault when they intentionally or knowingly use force to engage in sexual acts. Force does not have to involve physical violence. The law allows suspects to be charged if they used force, threats, or coercion. Situations where the victim could not give consent can also lead to rape charges.
What Penalties Can Someone Face for a Rape Conviction?
Someone convicted of sexual assault in Galveston County typically faces a second-degree felony. That level of felony can lead to a sentence of two to 20 years in prison and a heavy fine. Aggravating factors, like the use of a deadly weapon or assault against a child, can elevate the charges to a first-degree felony that could result in a life sentence.
How Can a Lawyer Defend Against Rape Allegations?
Legal representation can play a critical role in protecting you from a life-altering conviction. Your lawyer can scrutinize the evidence to see if the prosecution has sufficient evidence to back up their accusations. If you were misidentified as the suspect or the courts have a one-sided version of events, your lawyer can take steps to show that you did not commit sexual assault.
What Should I Do if I Am Accused of Rape?
If you are accused of committing sexual assault, your first step should be to hire a criminal defense attorney to speak on your behalf and explore viable defense strategies. Legal representation can play a critical role in protecting your rights and clearing you of any wrongdoing. As the case moves forward, do not speak with anyone about the case or try to contact the victim.
Let The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates Work to Protect Your Freedom and Future
A rape accusation in Galveston County carries some of the harshest penalties under Texas law, and the court of public opinion often casts judgment before you ever step into a courtroom. At The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates, we bring more than three decades of criminal defense experience to these high-stakes cases.
Our track record of success in court has won our firm numerous awards and recognitions by prominent peer-reviewed legal groups. We approach every case with precision by uncovering inconsistencies in the evidence and building a trial-ready defense designed to protect your name and your future. When your future is on the line, trust our team to fight aggressively and strategically on your behalf. Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation.