Have you been accused of a sex crime in McKinney, TX? There’s almost no allegation that carries a greater risk to your reputation, freedom, and future than these kinds of charges. The sooner you involve a skilled defense attorney, the less chance there is for these charges to follow you around for the rest of your life. Contact Texas Defense Firm at (972) 369-0577 to schedule a consultation.
With more than 200 years of combined experience, our lawyers are prepared to step in immediately and provide the defense you deserve for any charges you’re facing. We’ll tirelessly advocate on your behalf and fight for your legal rights.
Why Should I Choose Texas Defense Firm if I’m Arrested For a Sex Crime in McKinney, TX?
When you need an aggressive defense, our team is here for you. Here’s why people turn to our McKinney criminal defense attorneys:
- Our team brings together two centuries of combined legal experience, so you always have experience in your corner, no matter how tough the case is.
- We’ve been voted the best criminal defense attorneys in McKinney, a reputation earned through tireless work and results.
- A number of our attorneys have a 10.0 rating on Avvo and have been recognized by Super Lawyers.
- You have access to a representative 24/7, every day of the year. When your freedom is threatened, you won’t be sent to voicemail.
Sex crime charges in McKinney, Texas, can have devastating, lifelong effects. These accusations can damage your reputation, affect your personal relationships, and threaten your future. Due to the high stakes involved, you need an experienced McKinney sex crimes attorney.
Call Texas Defense Firm anytime to schedule a consultation. We will answer your legal questions, help you understand the nuances of the charges you are facing, and support you throughout the legal process.
Overview of Sex Crimes in Texas
Sex crimes in Texas are considered some of the most serious offenses and can carry life-changing penalties. Texas prosecutes these offenses harshly, sometimes under state and federal law, depending on where or how the alleged act occurred.
Examples include:
Statutory Rape
Statutory rape happens when an individual engages in sex with a minor who cannot legally consent according to the Texas Penal Code, even if the younger person agrees and both people are very close in age (unless there is an exception under Romeo and Juliet laws).
Sexual Assault
Any unwanted sexual contact or penetration that occurs without consent is a first-degree felony. This is referred to as rape in many other jurisdictions.
Child Molestation
Sexual acts or contact involving a child are illegal under all circumstances. Child molestation includes indecency (e.g., exposing private parts), sexual abuse, or sexual contact with anyone under the age of 18.
Child Pornography
Possession, creation, or sharing of images or videos showing sexual conduct involving a minor is illegal. This type of internet sex crime is incredibly serious.
Indecent Exposure
This involves showing one’s genitals in a public place or in a setting where others are likely to be offended or alarmed.
Prostitution
Prostitution involves offering, receiving, or agreeing to exchange sex for money or something of value. Both the person seeking sex and the provider can be arrested under Texas law. Incest is illegal in Texas and refers to sexual relationships between close relatives, regardless of consent.
In some cases, sex crimes can be prosecuted under federal law in addition to Texas law. This can happen when an offense involving internet activity (e.g., the distribution of child pornography) moves across state lines or takes place on federal property. Federal charges often require minimum sentencing standards and require particular legal knowledge. Our attorneys know how to defend state and federal crimes.
This is just a general overview of potential sex crimes you could be charged with in Texas. For more details about each offense or for help with a specific criminal charge you’re facing, contact us right away.
What Are the Penalties for Sex Crimes in McKinney, Texas?
A conviction for a sex crime in McKinney, Texas, can bring a wide range of penalties and long-term repercussions. The specifics are very case-specific, but consequences commonly include:
Jail or Prison Time
The most severe penalties for sex crime convictions are time in jail or prison. Depending on how serious the offense was, sentences can range from several months for minor crimes (like indecent exposure) to decades or even life in prison for more serious felony charges such as aggravated sexual assault or crimes involving a child.
Fines, Probation, and Supervision
Sex crime convictions in Texas often include heavy fines and mandatory fees. Offenders may also be placed on probation or community supervision, which comes with strict conditions such as regular check-ins with a probation officer, monitoring, and travel restrictions.
Court-Ordered Classes or Treatment
Judges may require that a person convicted of a sex crime complete specialized treatment, counseling, or educational programs, in addition to their other penalties. These classes are meant to reduce the chances of future offenses and are often required alongside probation or after release from jail.
Sex Offender Registration
One of the longest-lasting effects of a conviction is mandatory sex offender registration. Convicted individuals must regularly report details like their address and current employment to local authorities. This information is made available to the public through Megan’s Law, which can further limit your ability to find work and housing and affect your relationships long after you complete your sentence.
Other possible consequences include losing your job, forfeiting a professional license, agreeing to periodic check-ins, and complying with electronic monitoring.
Factors Affecting Sentencing
When sentencing a defendant for a sex crime, judges consider many different factors. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Sentence Mitigation
A judge has the authority to reduce or “mitigate” a sentence if there are extenuating circumstances. For example, if the crime was committed because the offender was being pressured, threatened, or coerced, or if the defendant provides evidence of a larger criminal case, such as a trafficking operation.
Sentence Enhancement
Conversely, the presence of certain aggravating facts will increase or “enhance” penalties. Prior convictions for similar offenses, offenses involving children, or crimes committed with violence, force, or threats will result in considerably harsher sentences. In some cases, a mandatory minimum punishment applies, and judges have less discretion to offer leniency.
Anyone facing investigation or charges should speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as early as possible.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For a Sex Crime in Texas?
Being accused of a sex crime in Texas is scary, but working with a lawyer to build a strong defense can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Here are some common defenses that could be used:
False Accusations
It’s not uncommon for people to be falsely accused due to misunderstandings, jealousy, revenge, or attempts to sway divorce or custody proceedings in family court. Your attorney can uncover a false motive or point out inconsistencies in the accuser’s story.
Mistaken Identity
Many sex crime cases rely on eyewitness testimony, which isn’t foolproof. DNA, alibi witnesses, text messages, cameras, and timelines can all help establish that you weren’t the person involved.
Insufficient Evidence
A successful defense may also focus on pointing out the lack of reliable physical evidence, contradictory witness accounts, or procedural mistakes made by police or prosecutors. Raising reasonable doubt would be enough for an acquittal — you don’t have to prove you didn’t commit the crime.
Police or Prosecutorial Misconduct
If police violated your rights, such as by coercing a confession, conducting an illegal search, or failing to follow required procedures, some or all of the evidence may be thrown out, weakening the case against you.
Every defense strategy is unique and must be built around the facts of the case. The first step we’ll take in your defense is conducting a thorough review of all available evidence—including forensic data, witness statements, and electronic records. We will then identify possible defenses, file appropriate pretrial motions, and hire expert witnesses as needed.
Each case is different, and your attorney will look at the facts and determine what option gives you the best chance of walking away without a criminal record.
Facing a sex crime investigation or charge can damage everything you’ve built, from your job and family relationships to your freedom. No matter how serious or minor the accusation, you have the right to a strong and informed defense.
We have over 200 years of combined experience and have successfully defended numerous clients, getting their charges reduced or dismissed altogether. Our team is committed to fighting for you.
Our law firm takes your concerns seriously, keeps you informed, and fights for your rights at every step. Contact Texas Defense Firm to schedule a consultation with a McKinney sex crimes lawyer. Let us begin putting our experience and resources to work on your behalf.