Sex Crimes: Criminal Defense Attorney
Sex crimes are treated very seriously in League City, TX by law, so it is not surprising to learn that police make thousands of arrests in their efforts to crack down on offenses. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), more than 14,600 people are arrested for rape every year, while another 18,000 face charges for sexual assault. Plus, more than 6,800 individuals are arrested for sex offenses as family violence. No matter the sex crime, almost all offenses in this category are charged as felonies, so there are long prison sentences and high fines for those convicted of sex-related crimes. Still, one of the most devastating impacts is the requirement to register as a sex offender.
Your situation may seem grim if you were charged with this type of criminal offense, but keep in mind that an arrest is just the beginning of the case. There are multiple opportunities to defend the allegations, and the Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates will pursue all strategies that protect your rights. Please contact our law office today to schedule a consultation with a League City sex crimes defense attorney. You can also check out some important information about the relevant laws.
List of Sex Crimes Cases We Cover
You can rely on our team to aggressively defend the criminal offenses and charges, especially in cases involving false or exaggerated allegations. We are prepared to handle criminal charges for:
- Sexual Assault, commonly known as rape;
- Aggravated Sexual Assault, which is rape causing serious bodily injury or through use of a deadly weapon;
- Burglary with Intent to Commit Sexual Assault, essentially breaking and entering to commit rape;
- Internet sex offenses;
- Indecent Exposure and Public Lewdness;
- Prostitution;
- Solicitation of Prostitution;
- Operating a Sexually Oriented Business, i.e., running a brothel or prostitution ring, or acting as a pimp or madame;
- Sexting; and,
- Any attempts to commit the above crimes, even if not completed.
There are many sex offenses defined by Texas criminal law that protect children, and these charges can be even more serious than other sex crimes. We will support your legal needs if you were arrested for:
- Possession or distribution of child pornography;
- Indecency with a child, either through touching or exposure;
- Trafficking or prostitution involving a child; and,
- Sexual Assault of a Child.
Common Questions About Sex Offenses in Texas
Though you will want plenty of information about how the laws impact your specific case, some answers to frequently asked questions can provide some background.
The specific charges will either be for a misdemeanor or felony, so this is the initial consideration. Additional factors include:
o Your age;
o The victim’s age;
o Whether there was violence, injuries, or use of a weapon; and,
o Your criminal record, if any.
With most cases, a guilty verdict will be part of your criminal history for the rest of your life. Some individuals may qualify to have the matter removed after 10 years.
Misdemeanors are punishable by less than a year in jail, but the penalties increase significantly for felonies. A Third Degree Felony could mean up to 10 years in prison, and there are mandatory minimum prison sentences. A conviction for the most serious sex crime, a First Degree Felony, may result in life in prison.
Yes, you will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life. Still, you may have options through an individual risk assessment that excuses the requirement.
When you are facing a sex crime charge or allegation, it can take a toll on your life and the life of those close to you. There is a stigma that follows those who have committed a sexual offense or simply just accused of one. That is why it is a good idea to immediately seek legal help when facing sexual offense charges.
An excellent sex crimes lawyer can fight for you to reduce charges, prove your innocence, or minimize the impact a sexual offense charge can have on your life. If you have been charged with or accused of committing a sex crime, The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates can help you. Contact us today for a free consultation regarding your case.
Options for Fighting the Charges
Even cases as serious as sex crimes allow for multiple defenses, so you must leverage all possible opportunities to beat the charges. In every case, your strategy must include contesting the government’s case. The prosecutor must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the heaviest burden in all of US law. By exposing weaknesses in the facts and legal issues, you could prevent the prosecution from proving its case.
Age of a child is never a defense to sex crimes, but additional options include:
- Consent by the victim;
- Lack of intent; and,
- Mistake.
Plus, though not a defense, pursuing plea bargain options may also be wise. The prosecution may be willing to work out an agreement in which you plead guilty, but the charges and/or penalties are reduced.
Timeline of a Criminal Case in Texas
To make the greatest positive impact, you must present defenses and seek other options at the right point in the criminal process. Fortunately, there are several opportunities along the way. The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates will handle all essential tasks, so you can trust a League City sex offenses lawyer for:
- Pre-Arrest Investigations and Police Questioning: When law enforcement is acting on the allegations of a victim, you still have rights before an arrest. Having legal counsel ensures you do not incriminate yourself.
- Arraignment: At your first court appearance after being arrested, the judge will read the charges and ask you to enter a plea. Representation from an attorney is essential for another aspect of arraignment, when you work out bail for pretrial release.
- Pretrial Proceedings: There may be multiple hearings before your trial, and the pretrial phase is when you may be filing motions raising your defenses.
- Trial: When your trial date arrives, your lawyer will attack the prosecutor’s evidence and diligently cross-examine witnesses. Then, it will be your turn to present testimony, exhibits, and arguments in your favor.
Consult with a League City Sex Crimes Defense Attorney to Learn More
Knowing the timeline of the criminal process is important for knowing what to expect, but legal representation is crucial for presenting defenses when they will be most effective. To learn more, please contact our criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates. You can call (281) 962-7817 or visit us online to set up a consultation with a Texas sex crimes defense lawyer. Once we review the details of your case, we will get started on developing a solid legal strategy for securing a positive result.
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