Aggravated Sexual Assault Attorney in River Oaks, TX
Facing an aggravated sexual assault charge in River Oaks is one of the most serious things that can happen to you. These cases are taken very seriously by the Texas criminal justice system, and if convicted, you could face time in prison, lifetime registration as a sex offender, and a permanently damaged reputation. A River Oaks aggravated sexual assault lawyer can fight for your rights, investigate the prosecutor’s evidence, and work with you to create a strong defense for your case.
About The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates
At The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates, we provide strategic criminal defense for men and women charged with sexual offenses like aggravated sexual assault, indecent assault, and other sex crimes. A River Oaks criminal defense lawyer on our team can help you.
Our defense attorneys are experienced and know Texas sexual assault laws as well as the local court rules and procedures in Harris County, including at the Harris County 232nd District Court. We can fight to protect your rights and seek to minimize the consequences.
Understanding Aggravated Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is a legal term used in Texas to describe what is commonly known as rape. It can be any nonconsensual penetration of another’s sexual organ or anus, oral sex, or causing sexual contact between other people. A defendant faces harsher penalties if the sexual assault is classified as aggravated. Aggravated sexual assault happens when the defendant:
- Uses a deadly weapon
- Commits the assault against a person under the age of 14
- Commits an act against someone who is disabled or elderly
- Commits the act while committing another crime
Sexual activity may also be considered a crime in Texas, even with consent, in certain aggravated sexual assault cases where the other person is under 17 years old, unconscious, or otherwise mentally incapable of consenting, or if they were threatened or forced into the act.
Penalties for Aggravated Sexual Assault
In fiscal year 2024, 1,430 of the 61,678 cases that were reported involved sexual abuse. Since fiscal year 2020, there has been a 62.5% increase in sexual abuse offenses. Aggravated sexual assault is one of the most severe charges under Texas’s aggravated sexual assault laws. Convictions carry serious penalties, including:
- Years in prison
- Lifetime registry on the sex offender registry
- Fines
- Restitution
- Professional consequences
Aggravating factors like assaulting a minor, using a weapon, or causing injury to more than one victim can result in heavier sentencing. A conviction for assault and battery can also result in housing, employment, and travel restrictions, which have long-term personal and professional repercussions.
What to Do if Charged With Aggravated Sexual Assault?
If you have been accused of aggravated sexual assault in River Oaks, it’s imperative to take immediate action to protect your rights. Initially, exercise your right to remain silent and do not discuss your case with the police without an attorney present, as any statement you make can be misconstrued or used against you in court.
Contacting an experienced River Oaks criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible is crucial, as they can advise you on the legal process and help you build a strong defense strategy. It’s also important to preserve all evidence that may be relevant to your case, including digital communications and electronic devices, and to follow your River Oaks aggravated sexual assault attorney’s advice regarding court, bail, and pretrial proceedings.
Taking these steps promptly can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case and ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the legal process.
Hire an Aggravated Sexual Assault Lawyer in River Oaks
A seasoned River Oaks aggravated sexual assault attorney is your greatest chance to preserve your rights and create a strong defense. The stakes in these cases are extremely high, with the possibility of decades in prison and mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender, and navigating the criminal justice system alone can be daunting.
An attorney can guide you through the complex legal process, working to suppress evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and fighting tirelessly for your rights from the initial bail hearing through trial. Hiring a local River Oaks lawyer with extensive experience in the area’s courts means you will get the personal attention you need, with a carefully tailored strategy to maximize your chances of a positive outcome.
FAQs
Can Aggravated Assault Charges Be Dropped in Texas?
Yes, aggravated assault charges can be dropped in Texas under certain circumstances, usually depending on the evidence, the credibility of witnesses, and the discretion of the prosecutor. An experienced criminal defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors, file motions to dismiss based on procedural errors, or present new evidence to support a reduction or dismissal of charges.
How Much Is a Sexual Assault Claim Worth?
Sexual assault claims can vary. The amount of compensation depends on the circumstances of the assault, the extent of physical and emotional injuries, lost wages, and punitive damages. It’s important to consult with an experienced attorney who can assess the specific details of your case and provide an estimate of the potential value of your claim.
How Hard Is It to Win a Sexual Assault Case?
Winning a sexual assault case is difficult. It’s because of the nature of the act and the evidence collected. Furthermore, the case often relies on the testimonies of the involved parties. To have a successful defense strategy, you need compelling evidence. However, all hope is not lost as a good and experienced sexual assault lawyer can look for mistakes in the process.
Can Aggravated Assault Be Reduced?
Yes, it is possible to get a charge of aggravated assault reduced to a lesser offense, like simple assault or misdemeanor assault. Some factors include no prior criminal history, lack of serious injury, and desire to plea bargain. A good Texas criminal defense attorney can argue for mitigating circumstances to lessen possible penalties and circumvent the most severe sentencing.
Contact The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates
Being charged with aggravated sexual assault is a serious offense. However, you may have hope for a favorable future with the help of an attorney. The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates can help you in the legal process. Contact us today to get started.