Sex Crime Lawyer in San Antonio

Facing a Sex Crime Allegation in Texas? Call for Immediate Help

San Antonio, with its unique blend of culture and heritage, is governed by both state and federal laws concerning sex crimes. These laws are designed to protect individuals and the community, making it crucial for those accused to understand the intricacies involved. 

Common charges include sexual assault, indecent exposure, and possession of child pornography. Each of these crimes carries serious penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender.

In Bexar County, where San Antonio is located, the legal system can be daunting. The county court system sees numerous cases each year, making it imperative to have a knowledgeable advocate by your side. 

At The Law Office of Guillermo Lara Jr., we offer guidance through every step of the legal process. We focus on ensuring that our clients' rights are upheld while actively working toward a favorable outcome in the charges they face.

A trusted sex crime lawyer in San Antonio is ready to defend your name and freedom. Call (210) 787-2842 today or reach out online to schedule your free case evaluation. Available 24/7.

Understanding Sex Crimes in Texas

Texas law defines a wide array of sex crimes, each with specific elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. These offenses range in severity from misdemeanors to serious felonies, with penalties escalating significantly based on the nature of the act, the age of the victim, and any aggravating circumstances. As your sex crimes attorney in San Antonio, we will ensure you understand the exact nature of the charges against you.

Some of the common sex crimes charges we defend in San Antonio include, but are not limited to:

• Sexual Assault (Texas Penal Code § 22.011): This is the most common sex crime charge and involves intentionally or knowingly causing the penetration of another by any means without that person's consent.
• Aggravated Sexual Assault (Texas Penal Code § 22.021): This is a first-degree felony and occurs when a sexual assault involves certain aggravating factors, such as:
  • Causing serious bodily injury or attempting to cause the death of the victim or another person.
  • Using or exhibiting a deadly weapon.
  • Acting in concert with another person.
  • Administering drugs to impair the victim's ability to resist.
  • The victim is under 14 years of age.
  • The victim is an elderly or disabled individual.
• Indecency with a Child (Texas Penal Code § 21.11): This offense typically involves sexual contact, exposure, or other specified sexual acts with a child younger than 17 years of age. Depending on the nature of the act, it can range from a second-degree to a first-degree felony.
• Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child (Texas Penal Code § 21.02): This is a particularly serious first-degree felony (5 to 99 years or life in prison) that applies when an individual commits two or more acts of sexual abuse against a child (under 14, or under 17 if the actor is 17 or older with a specific age difference) over a period of 30 or more days.
• Prohibited Sexual Conduct (Texas Penal Code § 21.07): This often applies to situations involving individuals in positions of authority or trust (e.g., correctional employees, certain caregivers) who engage in sexual conduct with individuals under their supervision or care.
• Improper Relationship Between Educator and Student (Texas Penal Code § 21.12): This felony applies when an educator engages in sexual contact, intercourse, or deviate sexual intercourse with a student.
• Online Solicitation of a Minor (Texas Penal Code § 33.021): This crime involves using the internet or other electronic means to solicit a child for sexual conduct. Penalties vary depending on the age of the child and the nature of the solicitation.
• Sexual Performance by a Child (Child Pornography) (Texas Penal Code § 43.25): This offense involves the production, promotion, or possession of visual material depicting a child engaging in sexual conduct. This is a very serious felony.
• Aggravated Kidnapping (Texas Penal Code § 20.04(a)(4)): Kidnapping can be elevated to aggravated kidnapping if the intent is to commit sexual abuse.

The mere accusation of any of these crimes carries immense weight, and a prompt, aggressive defense by a San Antonio sex crimes lawyer is crucial.

Penalties for Sex Crime Convictions in Texas

Texas imposes some of the harshest penalties in the nation for sex crime convictions. These penalties vary significantly based on the classification of the offense (State Jail Felony, Third-Degree Felony, Second-Degree Felony, First-Degree Felony, Capital Felony) and any aggravating factors.

Here's a general overview of potential felony penalties:

• State Jail Felony: Confinement in a state jail for 180 days to 2 years; fine up to $10,000.
  • Example: Indecent Exposure (repeated offense).
• Third-Degree Felony: 2 to 10 years in state prison; fine up to $10,000.
  • Example: Improper Relationship Between Educator and Student.
• Second-Degree Felony: 2 to 20 years in state prison; fine up to $10,000.
  • Example: Sexual Assault.
• First-Degree Felony: 5 to 99 years or life in state prison; fine up to $10,000.
  • Example: Aggravated Sexual Assault, Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, Sexual Performance by a Child.
• Capital Felony: Life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.
  • Example: Capital Murder (if connected to certain sex crimes).

Beyond the direct prison sentences and fines, a sex crime conviction in Texas carries unique and devastating collateral consequences that demand the proactive defense of a San Antonio sex crimes lawyer.

The Stigma and Collateral Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction

The impact of a sex crime conviction extends far beyond direct legal penalties, often becoming more life-altering and permanent. A primary consequence is sex offender registration, which requires convicted individuals to provide detailed personal information to law enforcement that is publicly accessible. This registration can last for 10 years or even for life, depending on the offense. Failure to comply with registration requirements is a felony itself.

Beyond registration, a sex crime conviction creates significant barriers to employment, especially in fields involving children or positions of trust. Many professional licenses will be revoked or denied, ending careers. Individuals face housing difficulties, loss of civil rights like voting and firearm possession, and profound social stigma and isolation, impacting personal relationships and community acceptance.

Comprehensive Legal Defense & Strategies

When facing serious charges, having an advocate who understands the nuances of sex crime laws in San Antonio is invaluable. At The Law Office of Guillermo Lara Jr., our criminal defense strategies are comprehensive and meticulously crafted to approach each unique case with precision.

• Personalized Attention: We invest time in understanding each client's personal experiences and challenges to provide tailored defense strategies.
• In-Depth Legal Knowledge: Our understanding of both state and federal laws guides our approach, ensuring every legal angle is explored.
• Proactive Defense: Early intervention is key in approaching negotiations with the goal of dismissals or favorable resolutions.
• Complete Transparency: All clients receive clear, written fee agreements to avoid confusion about costs.
• Supporting Evidence: We prioritize gathering and analyzing pertinent evidence and witness statements to strengthen our defense.

Another vital component of our defense strategy is the continuous review of legal precedents that can influence a client's case. By staying informed on recent rulings and changes in legislation, we ensure that every client benefits from up-to-date legal approaches. This forward-thinking methodology often opens up new avenues in defense that might not have been considered otherwise.

Take the First Step Toward Your Defense

Facing allegations of a sex crime is daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At The Law Office of Guillermo Lara Jr., our dedicated team is ready to stand by your side, guiding you through the complexities of the legal system with professional representation. 

Contact us today at (210) 787-2842 to schedule your free consultation. Let us help protect your rights and work towards a resolution that puts you in the best possible position. Hablamos español.