Have you been accused of an offense involving a child in McKinney, Texas? These allegations can have devastating consequences—even before a conviction. Call Texas Defense Firm at (972) 369-0577 to schedule a consultation with a McKinney offenses against children lawyer. We’re here to protect your rights, future, and reputation.
Criminal charges involving children are among the most serious in Texas. Prosecutors, judges, and the public treat these cases with heightened scrutiny. We understand the stakes and are prepared to mount an aggressive defense on your behalf.
Why Choose Texas Defense Firm To Help Me if I’ve Been Accused of Offenses Against Children in McKinney?
When your freedom is on the line, the lawyer you choose can make all the difference. Texas Defense Firm is one of the most respected criminal defense firms in Collin County.
Here’s why clients throughout McKinney, TX, turn to us when it matters most:
- Over 200 years of combined legal experience
- A team of former prosecutors who know how the state builds its case—and how to dismantle it
- Board-certified attorneys in criminal law
- Leadership roles in the local legal community, including the McKinney Bar Association and Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers’ Educational Institute
- Local insight and courtroom experience with Collin County judges, prosecutors, and procedures
You need a team that will treat your case with the seriousness it deserves. Our firm combines tenacity in court with discretion and compassion behind closed doors. Contact us today to meet with a McKinney criminal defense attorney and learn how we can fight for you.
Overview of Offenses Against Children in Texas
Texas law categorizes a broad range of actions as “offenses against children.” These can be physical, sexual, emotional, or involve exposing a minor to harm through reckless or negligent behavior.
Common examples include:
- Child abuse or neglect: Charges can stem from physical injury, failure to provide basic care, or placing a child in a dangerous situation. Caregivers, teachers, and parents may face charges under Texas Penal Code §22.04.
- Sexual offenses involving minors: This includes statutory rape, indecency with a child, aggravated sexual assault, online solicitation of a minor, and child sex trafficking. Many of these offenses carry lifetime consequences, including sex offender registration.
- Possession or distribution of child pornography: Under Texas Penal Code §43.26, it’s illegal to possess, access, or promote sexually explicit visual material involving minors. Even a single image can result in felony charges.
- Child endangerment and exposure to crime: Driving while intoxicated with a child in the vehicle or involving a minor in drug or criminal activity may lead to felony charges for child endangerment.
- Contributing to the delinquency of a minor: Adults who encourage or fail to prevent a child’s participation in illegal activity, such as underage drinking or theft, may be charged under Texas Family Code §51.03.
What Are the Penalties for Offenses Against Children in McKinney, Texas?
The penalties for crimes involving children in Texas are especially harsh. In many cases, these are felony charges that carry mandatory minimum sentences and collateral consequences that last a lifetime.
Depending on the charge, a conviction can result in:
- Lengthy prison sentences, including life in some cases
- Sex offender registration (which can be lifelong)
- Hefty fines
- Probation or community supervision with strict conditions
- Loss of parental rights or visitation
- Restrictions on housing, employment, and professional licensing
- Severe social stigma, even if the charges are later dropped or reduced
Even before trial, you may face protective orders, employment termination, and damage to your relationships. These cases are prosecuted aggressively in McKinney and throughout Collin County. You need to act quickly.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of an Offense Against a Child?
Being charged is not the same as being guilty. Our McKinney defense attorneys explore every angle and raise all applicable defenses, including:
- False allegations: Accusations involving children can sometimes arise from family disputes, divorce, custody battles, or misunderstandings. We investigate the source and motivation behind the claim.
- Mistaken identity or fabrication: Children may misidentify someone or be influenced by adults. In some cases, forensic evidence or alibis can show you were not the responsible party.
- Lack of intent: Some charges require proof of criminal intent. This can be a viable defense if you did not knowingly or intentionally commit a criminal act.
- Constitutional violations: Illegally obtained evidence—such as from an unlawful search or a coerced confession—can be excluded from trial, weakening the prosecution’s case.
- Insufficient evidence: If the state cannot prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, we can argue for dismissal, acquittal, or reduced charges.
Every case is different. We build a personalized defense based on the evidence, circumstances, and goals.
What Should I Do if I’m Accused of a Crime Against a Child in McKinney?
If you’re facing allegations or believe you’re under investigation for a child-related offense, acting carefully and strategically is critical. Taking the right steps early on can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
If you are under investigation or have been arrested, take these steps immediately:
- Do not talk to law enforcement without a lawyer: Politely invoke your right to remain silent and request legal counsel.
- Avoid contact with the alleged victim or their family: This includes in-person visits, phone calls, texts, and messages on social media.
- Preserve any evidence that may help your case: Save text messages, emails, security footage, and other relevant documentation.
- Stay off social media: Anything you post—even unrelated content—can be misinterpreted or used against you.
- Hire a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible: The earlier your lawyer gets involved, the better your chances of protecting your rights and building a strong defense.
Your actions during this time are critical. Saying the wrong thing or waiting too long to hire a lawyer can seriously harm your defense.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of Offenses Against Children
An experienced criminal defense lawyer can take a proactive approach to defending clients accused of crimes against children. Your attorney can:
- Investigate the charges and the underlying facts
- Analyze the evidence for inconsistencies or constitutional violations
- Retain experts, including psychologists or digital forensic analysts, as needed
- Challenge the credibility of witnesses or complainants
- Negotiate with prosecutors for dismissal or charge reduction
- Represent you in court, including motion hearings, suppression issues, and trial
We also provide ongoing guidance throughout the process so you understand what’s happening and what to expect. We aim to minimize the impact on your life and protect your future.
Schedule a Case Evaluation With Our McKinney Offenses Against Children Defense Lawyers
An accusation involving a child can feel like your entire world is collapsing. At Texas Defense Firm, we are ready to stand by your side, fight against these charges, and restore your reputation.
If you or someone you care about has been accused of an offense against a child in McKinney, Texas, don’t wait. Our experienced attorneys are here to provide support, explain your rights, and build the strongest possible defense.
Call now to schedule a confidential consultation with a McKinney offenses against children attorney.