San Antonio Sex Crime Defense Attorneys
Aggressive Legal Representation for Sex Offense Allegations in Texas
It is far more difficult to defend oneself against a sex crime than other types of crimes in Texas. The stigma attached to such offenses even before proof has been established feels like one strike against you. Even when circumstances would point to your innocence or to reduced charges, you may suffer from social notoriety and prejudice.
Because of this, it is incredibly important to bring in a reputable criminal defense attorney to handle your case. Our San Antonio sex crimes defense lawyers are here to ensure that your legal rights will be protected and that you will be treated fairly throughout the entire legal process. Your rights as an American are the same as any others facing criminal charges.
Get the help you need to defend yourself in court. Contact Smith & Vinson Law Firm at (210) 960-9557 today to speak with a sex crime lawyer near you.
What Is a Sex Crime in Texas?
Sex crimes can include simple misdemeanors as well as serious felonies. How you are charged and the penalties you face will depend on the nature of the offense and the circumstances of the situation. Our legal team has the knowledge and skills to represent you in any sex crime charge, no matter how serious it may seem. As trial lawyers who have defended many individuals throughout Texas, we offer diligent and thorough legal representation.
Texas sex crimes include:
- Indecent exposure
- Indecency with a child
- Rape
- Date rape
- Statutory rape
- Possession of child pornography
- Exploiting a minor
- Failure to register as a sex offender
- Child molestation
- Sexual misconduct
- Prostitution
- Sexual abuse
- Sex trafficking
- Sexual assault
This is not a conclusive list of offenses. Many types of actions can lead to sex crime charges.
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we understand that charges can vary and cases are not always as simple as they may appear to law enforcement. That is why we take the time to investigate and uncover all of the details of the incident, using that information to benefit your defense in court.
What Are the Potential Penalties for a Sex Crime Conviction in Texas?
A conviction for a sex crime in Texas carries severe penalties that can impact a person’s life for years, or even permanently. The specific penalties depend on the nature and severity of the offense, as well as any aggravating factors such as the age of the victim or the presence of prior convictions.
For more serious offenses, such as aggravated sexual assault, a conviction can result in decades in prison. Aggravated sexual assault, for example, is a first-degree felony, which can carry a sentence of five to 99 years or life imprisonment. Additionally, substantial fines of up to $10,000 can be imposed.
For less severe offenses, such as indecent exposure, the penalties may be lighter but still carry significant consequences. A conviction for indecent exposure is a misdemeanor but may still result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
One of the most life-altering consequences of a sex crime conviction is mandatory registration as a sex offender. This requirement means individuals must regularly update their personal information and report their residence, employment, and other activities. Being on the Texas sex offender registry severely restricts where a person can live, work, and interact within their community. In many cases, it can also create ongoing social stigma that affects relationships and future opportunities.
In addition to legal penalties, those convicted of a sex crime may face civil lawsuits, job loss, difficulty obtaining housing, and a damaged reputation. Defending against these charges early on is critical to minimizing these harsh consequences.
Texas courts treat sex crimes very seriously, and it is important to understand the gravity of the situation when facing such charges.
How Smith & Vinson Law Firm Can Help
When faced with sex crime charges, you need an experienced San Antonio sex crime defense lawyer handling your case. Texas courts often hand out tough punishments upon conviction. In the case of sex offenses, it can be even more of an uphill battle to see that justice is obtained. Our legal team knows how to fight even harder when our clients face sex offense allegations.
Our clients are our top priority and we fight to defend them regardless of the type of crime involved. We seek justice with determination and drive. If you are looking for a San Antonio sex crime defense lawyer who is known for client dedication, aggressive representation, and who will believe in your case, look no further than Smith & Vinson Law Firm.
Schedule a free consultation with a sex crime lawyer near you to learn more about how we can help you. Contact us at (210) 960-9557.
Texas Sex Crime FAQ
Can I be charged with a sex crime if the alleged victim consented?
- In Texas, consent is a critical factor in determining whether a sexual act constitutes a crime. However, certain factors, such as the age of the alleged victim or coercion, may invalidate consent and result in criminal charges.
What should I do if I've been accused of a sex crime in Texas?
- If you've been accused of a sex crime in Texas, it's crucial to seek legal representation immediately. Refrain from speaking to law enforcement or making any statements until you have consulted with a qualified criminal defense attorney.
Are there defenses available for sex crime charges?
- Yes, several defenses may be available depending on the circumstances of the case, such as mistaken identity, false allegations, lack of evidence, consent, or the age of the parties involved. A skilled defense attorney can assess your case and determine the most effective defense strategy.
What is the statute of limitations for sex crimes in TX?
- The statute of limitations for sex crimes in Texas varies depending on the specific offense. For some offenses, there is no statute of limitations, while for others, it may range from a few years to decades.
Can I be charged with a sex crime based solely on someone's accusation?
- While accusations alone may lead to investigations, prosecutors must present sufficient evidence to support criminal charges. It's essential to remember that you are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and you have the right to defend yourself against any allegations.
Our Clients Are Our Biggest Endorsers
Hear What They Have to Say
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Attorney Brad Vinson was informative, professional yet sympathetic with his approach to my case. Mr. Vinson was open to opinion and ensured that all legal avenues were considered and addressed before presenting a course of action.- Michael
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Having no background in law and finding myself in a situation that left me feeling extremely vulnerable, I felt quickly at ease in their care. They were very reasonable with my situation and helped work around my needs by providing me with the most support- Andrew
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They handled my case incredibly well and warned me on the possible negative outcomes, overall completely satisfied me through the whole process.- Elmer Marqueiz
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Very professional, on time and educates you along the whole process. I had a lot to lose and you guys gave it all back to me and finally represented what true Justice is here in America.- Manuel R.
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
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Charges Rejected Assault Bodily Injury Family Violence
Our client explained to us that they hadn’t lived in the Country for that long and his wife had called police as a way to resolve a non-physical dispute they had. Police arrived and immediately noticed bruising that they tried to pin on Our Client as well as other marks.
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No Charges Filed Sexual Assault Investigation
Our client was a UT student who was accused of sexual assault. He came to our firm extremely scared about his future both with the university and within the criminal justice system. With our firm's help, he was able to show that his accuser was not credible. Smith and Vinson put together a defense that law enforcement recognized as credible evidence of his innocence and not to file charges which changed the course of our client's life.
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Cases Dismissed Trafficking of a Person and Aggravated Promotion of Prostitution
Our client was accused of running a prostitution ring out of a massage parlor and trafficking an unwilling participant as part of the operation. The alleged victim had never been instructed to perform any sexual favors and accused our client after she felt she was owed extra wages.
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Dismissed Possession of Controlled Substance
Our client was pulled over for expired registration. Police smelled marijuana coming from the vehicle and conducted a probable cause search. Police found marijuana and pills containing a controlled substance, and the State charged our client with a felony. Our client was already facing multiple misdemeanor charges in another county.
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Dismissed Terroristic Threat
Our client was reportedly heard making terroristic threats by some members of his seventh-grade class. Police charged him with a felony. Our client was a boy scout who was well-liked by teachers but had developed ADHD and was being bullied. The State offered our client 1 year of deferred probation.