The legal age of sexual consent in Texas is 17.
Therefore, any adult who engages in sexual activities with anyone under this age limit will be charged with sexual assault. Unfortunately, not everyone charged with sexually assaulting a child is guilty. However, being involved in the case can damage your reputation and strip you of all you’ve worked hard for.
If you ever find yourself in this situation, you must call a lawyer for sexual assault of a child immediately. If you don’t know how to find one, you’re on the right page. In this guide, you will learn the implications of a child sexual assault charge and how to choose the best sexual assault defense lawyer in Houston to protect your rights.
Understanding Gravity of Sexual Assault of Child Charges
Before choosing a defense attorney, it’s advisable to learn the implications of the case. Knowing how it can alter your current situation can help you make the best choice.
Sexual assault of a minor is a serious offense, especially in the state of Texas. Such delicate cases can do significant harm to the reputation of anyone involved before a court verdict.
Social and Financial Implications
Getting caught in the middle of a sexual assault case can be life-altering. It may lead to losing jobs or businesses and being ostracised from society. Besides losing a source of income, the accused may lose custody of their children and other social benefits.
Penalties
The penalties for being found guilty of sexually assaulting a minor can be harsh. Those found guilty of this crime may face up to 20 years in prison, depending on the nature of the assault. Unfortunately, many are incarcerated wrongly without having committed the crime.
Fines and Sentencing
You risk fines of up to $10,000 plus a prison sentence. Also, the accused’s name will permanently be on the list of sex offenders if found guilty. Being on this list negatively impacts your reputation and drastically limits future opportunities. From getting a corporate job to traveling overseas, being on the sex offender list can revoke your access to life-changing experiences.
Why You Need Legal Representation?
Being falsely accused of child sexual assault may stem from various reasons, such as poor judgment, anger, or disputes. Without the expertise of an experienced attorney, proving your innocence is a long shot. That’s why you must carefully identify the ideal traits in a defense lawyer who can get you justice.
Now that you know what is at stake, it’s time you discovered the vital attributes to look for in a Houston sexual assault of a child lawyer.
How to Choose Ideal Child Sexual Assault Lawyer in Houston?
1. Find Specialist in Sex Crimes and Serious Felonies Defense
Due to the implications, this is not a case for a general defense attorney. You want a specialist in sex crimes and serious felonies to defend and protect your rights. So, investigate your options and choose the most knowledgeable professional with a high chance of getting you justice.
A sexual assault of a child lawyer is in the best position to protect your rights. They have extensive knowledge of sexual assault cases involving minors in Texas State and have tried many. The Texas penal codes on sexual assault on minors (Sections 21.02, 22.02, 21.11, and 22.011) can be complex to navigate, even for lawyers. Thus, a specialist’s familiarity with the elements of these cases gives them an edge over general criminal defense attorneys.
2. Prioritize Experience in Child Sex Crimes and Felonies
Sexual assault on minors is a highly sensitive case as it hinges on a child’s testimony. Children have legal and parental protection during these procedures, making it tricky for the defense attorney to gather evidence or interview them. Thus, experience is crucial when handling this case.
Trying this case is challenging, as the rules for cross-examining or questioning a child are unique. While in court, a sexual assault of a child lawyer must show compassion during cross-examination or when making arguments before the judge or jury.
A sexual assault defense attorney with at least a decade of experience can help ensure justice for the accused while protecting the child.
3. Background in Sex Crimes Prosecution
A sex crime prosecutor is the opposing counsel in a sexual assault case. They can be fierce and unhinged in their quest to defend the accuser’s honor. Thus, a sexual assault defense lawyer with experience as a former prosecutor has more resources in than arsenal than their peers.
Their experience in prosecuting these cases keeps them a step ahead of the opposition. They gain accurate insight into the ways the opposition will likely build their case. Their profound understanding of the opposition’s playbook will be crucial in challenging evidence and countering debilitating claims. Ensure your chosen attorney ticks this box before hiring them.
4. Flexible Service Cost
The best defense lawyers for sexual assault of minors are not cheap. The cost of their services depends on their resources, expertise, and the peculiarity of the case. Thus, enquire about the service fee structure.
Ask the lawyer what the fee entails and what other additional costs you might incur during the process. Your inquiry will provide answers that can help you determine if you can afford a legal service.
Fortunately, some top defense lawyers offer flexible payment options. For instance, some of Houston’s best attorneys give free consultations. They also take on pro bono cases and offer special discounts for veterans. During your consultation, speak with the lawyer to learn about other ways they make their services more affordable.
5. Consider Logistics
Sexual assault cases are sensitive and may escalate quickly with new information from investigations. For that reason, it is crucial to choose a defense lawyer who is accessible. Although virtual communication is important, you can’t underestimate the impact of physical contact with your defense team.
Logistics plays a major role in your ability to have face-to-face meetings with your lawyer. Thus, you must choose a defense lawyer you can easily reach. That way, you can schedule impromptu meetings that significantly impact the outcome of the case.
Final Thoughts
Sexual assault cases are susceptible to all parties involved. It can spark public outrage and evoke various kinds of emotions from the opposing side. It may also cause irreparable damage to the accused without a fair trial.
That’s why choosing the right Houston child sexual assault lawyer is key to protecting you throughout the process.
Investigate your options and ensure they have a background in sex crimes prosecution with experience defending those accused in a child sexual assault case. You must also ask about the additional fees and money-saving offers during a consultation to reduce your spending.
Lastly, consider logistics so that you are always in touch with your defense attorney.
