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Sex Related Charges in Texas

In the state of Texas, sex offenses can result in lifelong public identification as a registered sex offender and can carry serious penalties that include extended jail sentences. Charges that involve contact or solicitation of a minor are generally the most serious and may lead to the involvement of federal law enforcement agencies and charges in federal court under some circumstances. Some of the most common sexual offenses in Texas include the following:

  • Prostitution, promotion of prostitution, or compelling prostitution
  • Public lewdness or indecent exposure
  • Sexual assault including forced sodomy and rape
  • Obscenity charges that include production of obscene materials or display of those materials
  • Improper relationships between educators and students
  • Aggravated kidnapping for sexual purposes
  • Incest
  • Possession, production, promotion, or solicitation of child pornography
  • Solicitation of a person under the age of 17
  • Indecent behavior with a person under the age of 17

If you have been charged with any of these offenses, a qualified Houston criminal defense attorney can provide you with a solid defense that can protect your reputation and help you to avoid the prison sentences generally associated with these charges.

Prostitution charges can be embarrassing and may result in serious consequences for personal relationships, employment, and educational opportunities. First-time arrests for prostitution are usually treated as misdemeanors; however, presenting a vigorous defense to these charges is necessary to avoid the stigma of a conviction.

Registration as a sex offender is a matter of public record. Registered sex offenders are restricted in their choice of residences, employment options, and in volunteer or paid activities that involve children under the age of 17.

Sexual assault charges are considered second-degree felonies in the state of Texas and can result in up to 20 years in prison. If threats of death or serious bodily harm were involved in the incident, the offense can be enhanced to a first degree felony punishable by up to life in prison. Convictions  also result in mandatory registration as a sex offender.

Sex crimes involving a minor under the age of 17 include direct contact or sexual abuse offenses. These are felony charges that carry penalties of up to life in prison depending upon the nature of the offense, the age of the child, the number of current charges or previous convictions and whether threats or injuries were involved in the alleged offense. For any crimes involving sexual contact with a child, the services of a qualified Houston criminal lawyer can be critical to your defense against those serious charges.

Matthew Gallagher is a respected Houston criminal defense lawyer with experience in defending serious criminal charges in the state of Texas. He will fight on your behalf to try and help you avoid a conviction for these serious offenses and will present all possible defenses in an effort to minimize criminal liability or a potential sentence. By enlisting the help of Matthew Gallagher when you are arrested for a sexual offense in Texas, you can be assured that he will fight for the best possible outcome and results in your case.