Aggravated Sexual Assault Attorney in The Woodlands, TX
Aggravated sexual assault is a serious offense. Before a conviction even happens, an accused person can face personal consequences such as strained relationships and a tarnished reputation. A The Woodlands aggravated sexual assault lawyer can help you fight for your rights and guide you through the legal process. The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates can work for the greatest possible outcome.
About The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates
The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates offers effective and knowledgeable counsel for clients in The Woodlands charged with aggravated sexual assault. A The Woodlands criminal defense lawyer on our team can help. The legal team at The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates defends the rights of accused individuals with dedication, earning the trust of judges, attorneys, and former clients alike with their legal knowledge and courtroom performance.
Past clients commend The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates’ lawyers as understanding, responsive, and fierce, fighting for each client and often securing dismissals or other positive results. Tad Nelson earned his Texas Board of Legal Specialization certification through his exceptional legal knowledge, which enables him to represent every client with individual attention and effectiveness.
Clients gain a strategic advantage through our representation at the Montgomery County Courthouse, thanks to our in-depth understanding of local court procedures.
Understanding Aggravated Sexual Assault in Texas
Under aggravated sexual assault laws, such as Texas Penal Code § 22.011, sexual assault is defined as engaging in sexual activity without the consent of the other person. This includes any act of penetration, contact, or exposure that is done without the other person’s permission. When the assault involves aggravating factors, the penalties increase in severity. Aggravated sexual assault occurs when the following occurs:
- The assault was inflicted on a minor under the age of 14.
- The alleged perpetrator used a deadly weapon.
- The assault was committed against a vulnerable individual, such as a disabled or elderly person.
- The assault was committed while committing another felony.
Even if a person technically consented to the act, the law may still consider it aggravated sexual assault if the alleged victim was a minor, was coerced, was unconscious, or mentally incapable of consenting in the eyes of the law.
Potential Defenses
When it comes to aggravated sexual assault, there are several defenses your attorney can use that are appropriate to your specific case. Potential defenses include:
- Mistaken identity
- Consent was given
- The search and seizure was illegal
- Unreliable witness statements
- The sexual act was not forced or coerced
Of the 61,678 cases reported in fiscal year 2024, 1,430 involved sexual abuse. The number of sexual abuse offenses has increased by 62.5% since fiscal year 2020.
What to Do if Accused of Aggravated Sexual Assault?
Facing a charge of aggravated sexual assault in The Woodlands can be a frightening experience, and you need to take quick action to protect your rights. This means not speaking to the police or anyone else about the allegations without a lawyer present. Avoid contacting the alleged victim or making social media posts about the case.
Your greatest option for a secure future is to hire an aggravated sexual assault lawyer. Your lawyer can evaluate the evidence and protect your rights during questioning. You need an attorney who can start working on your defense as soon as possible.
Because this offense is typically prosecuted in Montgomery County, your attorney should be familiar with the Montgomery County Courthouse and local court procedures. The right lawyer can be a major asset in getting a good outcome for your case.
Why Hire an Aggravated Sexual Assault Lawyer in The Woodlands, TX?
Facing aggravated sexual assault cases in The Woodlands is one of the most frightening situations to be in. Aside from the obvious consequences to your future and reputation, if convicted, you face a high risk of long-term incarceration, sex offender registration, and other life-changing punishments.
An experienced The Woodlands aggravated sexual assault attorney can start evaluating your case facts right away while fighting unreliable witness testimonies against the state’s evidence and work towards reduced charges or case dismissal through negotiations with the prosecutor.
With your life and future on the line, it is also important to have an experienced The Woodlands criminal defense lawyer by your side to help advise you and give you the support and guidance you need during this extremely stressful period.
FAQs
What Must Be Proven for Sexual Assault?
To establish sexual assault in Texas, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant intentionally or knowingly caused the victim’s penetration by the sexual organ or anus of the defendant or by any object, without the victim’s consent. Evidence must be collected to support these claims, such as testimony and witness statements that demonstrate a lack of consent, force, or the alleged victim’s inability to consent.
Can You Plea Bargain for Aggravated Assault?
Yes, a plea bargain can be reached for an aggravated assault charge. Based on the evidence against you, your criminal record, and the facts of your case, an experienced criminal defense lawyer may be able to negotiate reduced charges or a more lenient sentence. This may include a lower offense, such as simple assault, or probation rather than jail or prison.
Can You Get Probation for Aggravated Assault in Texas?
Probation in Texas, also referred to as community supervision, may be an option for some aggravated assault cases, depending on the facts and circumstances of the offense and the criminal history of the defendant. Judges typically consider factors like whether a serious bodily injury occurred or if a deadly weapon was used during the commission of the crime.
What Is the Ideal Defense Against Aggravated Assault?
The appropriate defense strategy varies based on the circumstances of the crime and might include self-defense or defense of others, as well as mistaken identity or lack of intent. An attorney with extensive experience could question witness reliability or evidence handling while highlighting inconsistencies in the prosecution’s narrative. If a defendant acted lawfully, or without criminal intent, it is possible to minimize or even dismiss aggravated assault charges.
Contact The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates
If you have been charged with aggravated sexual assault in The Woodlands, an attorney at The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates can help you fight for your future. Contact us today for a consultation.