After you’re accused of sexual assault, it’s important to remember that statements made during an investigation can have serious consequences. Avoid discussing the allegations with the person who made them or posting about the situation online. You also have the right to remain silent when questioned by law enforcement. Speaking with counsel before answering questions can help you understand your rights, the allegations, and what steps can protect your interests.
Dallas Sexual Assault Lawyer
Dallas Sexual Assault Attorney
Sexual assault charges can come with lifelong consequences and social biases, even when you’re not convicted. Because cases of this nature are legally and factually complex, finding the right Dallas sexual assault lawyer to help you is crucial.
About Harris & Harris Law Group, PLLC
You need a lawyer on your side who understands Texas criminal laws, has experience with local district attorney’s offices and judges, and truly recognizes the long-term impact these allegations can have on an individual and their family. That’s where our team comes in.
At Harris & Harris Law Group, PLLC, our firm is led by skilled attorneys who also have experience as former prosecutors. Our team understands both sides of the legal system, allowing us to provide our clients with invaluable legal assistance as they navigate complex criminal charges like sex crime cases. We understand that there’s a lot on the line when you’re facing sexual assault charges, and we’re ready to leverage our knowledge to help you move forward.
What You Need to Know About Texas Sexual Assault Charges
Sexual assault-type charges may involve victims of any age. Possible charges between adults may include sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, or indecent assault. There were 20,620 sex crimes recorded in Texas in 2024 alone, involving 19,758 different offenders. It is not uncommon for these cases to go to trial due to the sensitive and emotional nature of the charges, so it is vital to have an experienced trial attorney form an aggressive defense on your behalf.
Sexual Assault Related Offenses in Texas
Sexual assault allegations can involve several different offenses under Texas law, and the type of offense you face can depend on the alleged conduct that occurred, the circumstances, and the evidence involved. Our Dallas sexual assault attorneys can examine the specific allegations against you and explain what charges prosecutors might pursue.
Understanding the distinctions between offenses is important because the classification of an allegation can affect potential penalties and the legal strategy you use to respond. Common sexual assault-related offenses seen in Texas include:
- Aggravated Sexual Assault: Texas Penal Code § 22.021 addresses aggravated sexual assault, which can involve sexual penetration or contact without consent combined with certain aggravating circumstances. The statute classifies the offense as a first-degree felony in many circumstances.
- Sexual Assault: Texas Penal Code § 22.011 generally addresses sexual assault involving specified sexual conduct without the other person’s consent. The alleged circumstances can affect how prosecutors characterize the offense and the potential consequences.
- Indecent Assault: Under Texas Penal Code § 22.012, certain intentional, nonconsensual touching, exposure, or conduct involving bodily fluids could constitute indecent assault. The statute generally classifies the offense as a Class A misdemeanor, although certain circumstances can increase the classification.
Another related offense, failure to register as a sex offender, may arise after an individual was convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication for a sexual offense and refuses to register.
Because different allegations can carry significantly different consequences, reviewing the supporting evidence matters. Applicable sexual assault laws should be evaluated based on the precise facts rather than assumptions about what happened. A skilled attorney can combat the charges against you by proving that the prosecution is missing key elements of a specific charge.
Penalties for Sexual Assault in Dallas
Because sex crimes are prosecuted harshly in Texas, a conviction can come with serious penalties. Sexual assault, which is classified as a second-degree felony, carries a punishment range of up to 20 years in prison. A sexual assault case becomes “aggravated” (a first-degree felony) when there is a deadly weapon involved, there is serious bodily injury to the alleged victim, or the alleged victim is a child under age 14.
Aggravated sexual assault in Dallas, TX is punishable by up to 99 years or life in prison. If the alleged victim is a child under age 6, the offense becomes “super-aggravated,” and carries a punishment range of 25 years to life in prison without any eligibility for parole.
It is essential to have a good legal team looking into charges of a sexual nature. There may be issues with scientific evidence, witness identification, or alibi, among others, that must be thoroughly investigated in order to properly defend against such serious allegations. Our Dallas sexual assault lawyers have the experience necessary to spot such issues and know how important it is to bring in an investigator to dig further into the case.
FAQs About Dallas, TX Sexual Assault Laws
What Should I Do After Being Accused of Sexual Assault in Texas?
Can You Be Charged With Sexual Assault Without Physical Evidence in Dallas?
Yes, in some cases, someone can be charged with sexual assault without physical evidence in Dallas. The prosecution doesn’t necessarily require DNA, photographs, or other physical evidence. They can consider statements, witness accounts, digital communications, medical records, and other circumstances when building allegations. At the same time, prosecutors still must meet the applicable burden of proof.
What Happens After a Sexual Assault Allegation Is Reported in Texas?
After a sexual assault allegation is reported in Texas, an investigation typically begins. That investigation can include interviews, the collection of available evidence, and a review of communications or other relevant information. Prosecutors ultimately decide whether they should pursue charges based on the available evidence. Early legal guidance can help an accused person navigate the investigation without creating additional problems.
How Can a Texas Sexual Assault Lawyer Help My Case?
When you’re facing criminal charges like sexual assault, having a knowledgeable defense attorney by your side can make a massive difference. Sexual assault cases involve complex laws and sensitive information that can be difficult to navigate on your own. An experienced lawyer knows how to build a defense that advocates for your side of the story, protects your rights, and works to mitigate your charges and the consequences you face.
Hire a Sexual Assault Lawyer You Can Trust: Contact Harris & Harris Law Group, PLLC
When you need to hire a sexual assault lawyer you can trust, you can count on the experienced attorneys at Harris & Harris Law Group, PLLC, to defend your future. Contact our attorneys today to discuss your rights under Texas law.
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