Sexual Abuse Attorney in Galveston County, TX
Being accused of sexual abuse can jeopardize your reputation and freedom. A conviction for a serious sex crime can lead to mandatory registration as a sex offender. If you are facing a sex crime charge, you can rely on the services of a Galveston County sexual abuse lawyer to provide you with the unwavering representation and advocacy you need to safeguard your freedom.
Strong Legal Advocates Representing Defendants in Galveston County
At The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates, we understand the stress that follows a serious criminal charge. We bring over 30 years of combined experience inside the courtroom. We understand how prosecutors build their cases and how to cast doubt on their narrative of events by scrutinizing the evidence and looking for potential violations of your rights.
If you are facing criminal charges, the only thing standing between you and a life-altering conviction is your Galveston County criminal defense attorney. Let our trial-ready legal team take decisive steps that can lead to reduced or dropped criminal charges. When you work with our law firm, you gain support and advocacy from attorneys who truly care about the outcome of your case.
Understanding Sexual Abuse in Galveston
Sexual abuse crimes are among the most serious offenses prosecuted in Galveston County. Texas law classifies these crimes under Chapter 21 of the Penal Code, which includes acts such as continuous sexual abuse of young children and indecency with a child by exposure. In 2023, state records show 303 offense counts of continuous sexual abuse of a young child and 50 counts of indecency with a child by exposure.
With 84,683 children under age 18 living in Galveston County, the risk and impact of these crimes is significant. Cases have been reported across neighborhoods like Texas City, League City, and Galveston Island. Anyone charged with these offenses is often booked and processed at the Galveston County Jail, 5700 Avenue H, Galveston, TX 77551.
Effective Defense Strategies for Fighting Sexual Abuse Charges
Texas judges are not known for showing leniency to anyone convicted of sexual abuse. To protect your freedom, you should rely on the right legal defense strategy. Fighting a sexual abuse case begins with a close examination of the evidence.
If your attorney finds that the prosecution cannot prove that you committed the offense, your attorney can leverage that lack of strong evidence to call for your case to be dismissed. If you engaged in sexual conduct believing the conduct with an adult was consensual, your attorney can question whether you acted with criminal intent or whether the elements of an offense were even met.
Why You Should Hire a Sexual Abuse Lawyer?
If you are facing charges of sexual abuse, your top priority should be to hire a Galveston County sexual abuse attorney who understands the state’s sexual abuse laws and how to secure favorable outcomes for your case.
The decision to hire a sexual abuse lawyer ensures that you have representation from a lawyer who has handled complex sexual abuse cases and understands the strategies that can lead to reduced or dropped charges.
Your attorney can carefully examine the evidence before focusing on a strategic approach to chipping away at the prosecution’s case. With legal representation, you will no longer be at the mercy of the courts. Your attorney can take decisive steps to influence the outcome of the case in your favor.
FAQs About Sexual Abuse Charges
What Constitutes Sexual Abuse Under Texas Law?
Under the Texas Penal Code, sexual abuse includes a wide range of acts defined under Chapter 21. Continuous sexual abuse occurs when two or more acts of abuse occur over 30 or more times against a child under 14 or a disabled individual. Related offenses include indecency with a child, invasive recordings, and sexual coercion. Many of these crimes are felonies that can lead to decades of confinement in prison.
What Are the Penalties for a Sexual Abuse Conviction in Galveston County?
Many sexual abuse crimes in Texas are charged as felonies. Continuous sexual abuse of a young child is a first-degree felony, punishable by 25 to 99 years or life in prison. Indecency with a child can be a second- or third-degree felony. Many sexual abuse charges are subject to enhancements that can lead to even harsher penalties. These include prior convictions and the targeting of vulnerable victims.
How Can a Lawyer Defend Against Sexual Abuse Allegations?
An attorney can play a critical role in defending you from sexual abuse allegations in Galveston County. They can examine forensic evidence, question the credibility of witnesses, and take steps to fight aggravating factors tied to the case. Specific defenses could include mistaken identity or lack of criminal intent. Cases involving minors are not subject to any defense arguing consent.
What Steps Should I Take if I Am Accused of Sexual Abuse?
Anyone accused of sexual abuse in Texas should avoid making statements to law enforcement without legal representation. Sexual abuse charges carry severe penalties under Chapter 21, so securing an experienced defense lawyer is critical. An attorney can begin gathering evidence, preserving evidence, and preparing statutory or constitutional defenses. By the time charges are brought, prosecutors often have substantial evidence, which is why acting quickly is critical.
Let The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates Work to Protect Your Freedom and Future
If you are facing sexual abuse charges, all that may be standing between you and a conviction is a Galveston County sexual abuse lawyer. The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates has more than three decades of experience defending clients accused of sexual abuse in Galveston County. Our board-certified founding attorney combines courtroom skill with advanced training in forensic evidence.
We know what it takes to fight allegations that threaten your reputation and future. Our legal team can pursue every viable defense strategy that could lead to a favorable outcome in court. If needed, we will not hesitate to take your case to trial. Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation and put our award-winning defense team to work protecting your rights.