Houston Sex Crimes Lawyers

The State of Texas is exceptionally hard on people who are charged with sex crimes. Unfortunately, the judging begins the moment our clients are charged, leaving little room to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.

At the Nava Law Group, P.C., our Houston sex crimes attorneys know that the nature of these charges carries a social stigma that is hard to avoid, and the penalties that accompany a conviction can end in heavy fines and even jail time, which can result in the loss of your job, your family, and your reputation.

If you have been accused of a sex crime in Harris County, do not face the prosecutor’s office on your own, or accept any “deal” tey may be offering without speaking with one of our experienced Houston sex crimes attorneys first. Entering a plea with the State can have far-reaching consequences that charge your life. Allow us to review your case first, so we can design a strategic approach to getting your life back on track.

What Are the Most Common Types of Sex Crimes in Houston, Texas?

Sex crimes can occur at both misdemeanor and felony levels, and each carries different punishments based on the unique circumstances of the case.

Common sex crimes in Houston can include, but are not limited to:

• Aggravated Sexual Assault
• Child Enticement, Child Molestation, or Child Pornography
• False Memory Syndrome
• Pimping or Prostitution
• Public Lewdness & Indecent Exposure
• Rape, Date Rape, or Spousal Rape
• Sex Offender Registration
• Sexual Abuse
• Sexual Assault of a Minor
• Sexual Internet Crimes
• Statutory Rape

The consequences of even being accused of a sex crime can change your life the moment the accusation leaves the accuser’s mouth. People talk, rumors spread, and your reputation can be ruined before you are even able to make bail.

To make matters worse, the prosecutor, the judge, and the court staff will immediately assume you are guilty and will treat you as such as you try to get a fair shake inside and outside the courtroom.

That is why it is so important to contact our experienced sex crimes attorneys in Houston if you have been accused of or charged with a sex crime. We can help build a defense that produces real results, so you can get your life back.

What Are the Penalties and Consequences of Sex Crimes in Texas?

Punishments for sex crimes vary and will depend on several factors including the charges, the circumstances, and the criminal record of the accused, especially if he or she has prior sex crime convictions.

Misdemeanors such as public lewdness, indecent exposure, and first-time prostitution can result in the following penalties:

• Class C misdemeanor: Fines up to $500
• Class B misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $2,000
• Class A misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and fines up to $4,000

Felonies such as indecency with a child, sexual assault, and aggravated sexual assault can result in the following penalties:

• State jail felony: 180 days to two years in state jail
• Third-degree felony: Two to 10 years in prison
• Second-degree felony: Two to 20 years in prison
• First-degree felony: Five to 99 years in prison
• Any classification of these felonies may also result in fines up to $10,000

The additional consequences of being convicted of a sex crime can include: 

• Loss of employment
• Inability to get or retain custody of your children
• Revocation of professional licenses
• Failure to obtain or possess a firearm
• Inability to serve on a jury, run for public office, or vote
• Loss of federal or state grants and scholarships

Anyone convicted of a sex crime — no matter the charges — must register as a sex offender.

Is “Sexting” Considered a Sex Crime in Houston, Texas?

Sexting can refer to receiving, forwarding, or sending the sexually explicit text, images, photos, or videos using different types of electronic or digital communication, which can include cellphones, computers, or other digital device.

In the State of Texas, it is illegal for an adult to send a sexual image of a minor to another adult and may result in both adults being charged with possessing or distributing child pornography.

The laws apply to minors, too. It is illegal for a minor to possess visual material with other minors engaged in sexual conduct if the minor possessing the content:

• Produced the material
• Knows the minor who produced the material

There is an exception to sexting laws for minors who are dating, and who are no more than two years younger or older than their partner.

Common penalties for sexting in Texas can include:

• Sexting by a Minor: Fines of up to $500
• Sexting by an Adult with a Minor: Up to 20 years in prison, fines of up to $10,000, or both
• Possession of Child Pornography: Two to 20 years in prison and/or fines of up to $10,000

The actual penalties for sex crimes may vary depending on the facts of the case, but in the State of Texas, they are almost always severe. Do not leave your case — or your freedom — to chance.

Contact Our Sex Crimes Defense Lawyers in Houston Today for a Free Consultation

Sex crimes come with serious penalties and can be charged on a local or federal level. If you have been accused of or charged with a sex crime, contact our skilled criminal defense attorneys in Houston at the Nava Law Group, P.C. today by calling (713) 661-9900 to ensure your rights are protected going forward.