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Sex Crimes
Many people ask how I can defend
an individual accused of sexual assault against
a child. I quickly respond that when someone hires
me they are innocent, until the prosecution proves
their case and a jury finds them guilty. The facts
will be revealed as the case progresses and a
quick resolution is not always the goal in this
type of case. The complexities of a sexual assault
case demand solid and open communication between
the attorney and the client. Sex crimes often
require additional resources, including investigators,
therapists, and other expert witnesses. Because
of my experience, I have a close relationship
with a number of professionals in these fields
who are ready and capable to help me defend my
clients who are accused of all sex crimes.
"Sex Crimes"
generally means any offense that requires a defendant
to register as a sex offender. This can include
anything from indecent exposure to aggravated
sexual assault of a child. The consequences of
a plea or conviction on a sex crime are severe.
Even if the defendant accepts a deferred adjudication,
the State will require the defendant to register
as a sex offender for 10 years or for life, depending
on the crime. Sex Offender Registration requires
community notification and includes strict restrictions
on where the offender can live and who they are
allowed to contact. Every time an offender moves,
they are required to notify the local authorities
and have measurements taken to show that they
are not living too close to a park or school or
other restricted area. Here is a link for additional
information on the Texas Sex Offender Registration
program.
Because of the life
changing ramifications of a sex crime allegation,
it is important to find an attorney who believes
that every defendant deserves a full and diligent
defense. Most sexual assault or aggravated sexual
assault of a child cases go to trial because of
the consequences associated with a plea. If the
accusations are being made by a family member,
then the accused may also have to deal with CPS
(Children's Protective Services). The bottom line
is that these cases are serious and can tear families
apart, even when the allegations are false.
Even an allegation
of a sex offense should be taken seriously. If
you believe someone intends to accuse you of a
sex offense, please contact my office. In many
cases, the law enforcement agency or CPS will
bring the suspect in to talk without charging
them with a crime. You have the right to have
an attorney at any point, USE IT. Contact my office
and we will discuss your case and decide the best
course of action. Sometimes, talking with the
authorities is a reasonable option. Other times,
even when the accused is innocent, it is best
to wait and see what the exact accusation is and
what evidence they have to prove it.
Some Examples of Sex
Offenses include:
· Indecency
with a Child by Contact
· Indecency
with a Child by Exposure
· Sexual Assault
· Aggravated
Sexual Assault
· Aggravated
Sexual Assault of a Child
· Compelling
Prostitution
· Indecent
Exposure (2nd Offense)
· Possessing
or promoting Child Pornography
· Obscenity
with patently offensive obscene material
· Sexual performance
by child
· Burglary
with intent to commit sexually violent offenses
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