Empathetic, Experienced Sex Crime Defense
Being accused of a sex crime can ruin your life – even before you step foot inside a courtroom. The public and the media may already consider you guilty of the crime, which is why you need experienced legal help from a skilled criminal defense lawyer immediately.
At Lewis & Ashworth, PLLC, we know that criminal charges can turn your life upside down – and we’re here to right the ship. Our Plano sex crime defense attorneys have more than 30 years of collective experience in the criminal justice system, and we know what it takes to craft a strong, effective defense on your behalf.
Call 214-856-6130 now or contact us online to get started by scheduling a free consultation today.
Penalties For Sex Crimes In Texas
- Sex crimes involving children: The Texas Penal Code identifies many criminal sexual offenses involving children, including solicitation, human trafficking, continuous sexual abuse of children, indecency with a child, sexual performance by a child, improper relationship between a teacher and pupil, and others. Penalties vary widely depending on the offense.
- Sexual assault (rape): Texas Penal Code § 22.011 and 22.021 recognize sexual assault as a second-degree felony and aggravated sexual assault as a first-degree felony. A second-degree felony carries a punishment up to 20 years in prison with a $10,000 fine, while first-degree felonies may be sentenced up to life in prison. Punishments grow more severe for aggravated sexual assaults involving persons under the age of 14.
- Prostitution: Under Texas Penal Code § 43.02-43.06, it is a crime to prostitute oneself, promote prostitution, aggravated promote prostitution, or otherwise compel prostitution. Such crimes can range between a Class B misdemeanor, involving a $2,000 fine and a maximum of 180 days in jail, and a first-degree felony, involving a fine of up to $10,000 and five years to life in prison.
- Child pornography: Penalties for sex crimes involving child pornography typically overlap with other sex offenses and are punishable by federal and state law. In Texas, possession of child pornography will either be a third-, second- or first-degree felony, depending on a number of factors. In the most serious cases, the punishment may be up to life in prison.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I am accused of a sex crime in Texas?
Contact our Plano criminal defense firm immediately. If you have been accused of a sexual offense, the criminal justice system is already building a case against you, and we can advise you on how to interact with law enforcement, avoid unintentionally incriminating yourself, and protect your rights in the process.
What should I do if I am falsely accused of rape or sexual assault?
Even if you believe the charges against you are altogether fabricated, you cannot afford to proceed without representation. The charges will not just “go away.” False allegations of a sex-related crime can ruin your professional prospects, your social life and your reputation – but we can help keep that from happening by providing a strong defense on your behalf.
Will I be forced to register as a sex offender in the state of Texas?
This is a complex question that will require legal analysis from experienced attorneys. Typically, any person who is convicted of certain sex offenses and sex offenses against minors will be required to register as a sex offender.
Contact The Sex Crimes Attorneys At Lewis & Ashworth, PLLC
Don’t let it happen to you – call 214-856-6130 today to schedule your free consultation with one of our Plano sex crime defense lawyers. We serve clients in Dallas-Fort Worth.
