Fort Worth Sex Crimes Attorneys
Defending Serious Charges for Residents of Tarrant County
Murder and sex crimes are among the most harshly prosecuted criminal offenses in the state of Texas. In addition to the severe penalties for most sex crimes, many convicted sex offenders will be forced to participate in a sex offender registry that can potentially last a lifetime. Unfortunately, there are few distinctions for sex offender registration—a relatively minor offense can place you in the same category as those who have committed truly heinous sex crimes. If you are required to register as a sex offender after serving your sentence, you could find it difficult to find employment or housing and you could face persecution from other members of your community.
Because the consequences for a sex crime conviction are so ominous, it is important that you speak to a knowledgeable Fort Worth sex crimes attorney from Burns & Davis as soon as you have been charged. Call (817) 873-1883 today.
What Crimes Are Considered Sex Crimes?
The following are considered sex offenses in the state of Texas:
- Public lewdness (engaging in sexual contact in a public place with a person, animal, or bird)
- Indecent exposure
- Voyeurism
- Improper teacher/student relationship
Common Defense Strategies Against Sex Crimes
While your specific defense will be determined by the facts and circumstances surrounding your charges, most sex crimes (except those involving children) hinge on the element of consent. If it can be shown that the sexual acts were consensual, it is unlikely you could be found guilty of the offense. Consent is not a defense if the victim was incapacitated, a minor, had a mental illness, or the consent was obtained by force, duress, or deception.
Other common defenses to sex crimes include:
- Actual innocence - You were falsely accused, or a witness mistakenly identified you
- Insanity or involuntary intoxication - Either you legally did not know the conduct was wrong or you can prove you were drugged or intoxicated by a method other than your own doing
- Police errors or violations of your rights
- Improperly collected or stored evidence
Mistake of age is not an acceptable defense for most sex crimes, particularly when the victim is fourteen years old or younger. The mistake of age defense could help in obtaining a reduced sentence, however.
Our Commitment to You
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Relentless RepresentationWhether in or out of the courtroom, we fight passionately to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your future.
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Hablamos EspañolWe provide exceptional legal services in both English and Spanish, ensuring every client feels heard and understood. Your case is our priority.
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Proven Legal ExpertiseWith years of experience and a track record of success, we deliver strategic, results-driven solutions for even the most complex legal matters.
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Client-Centered AdvocacyAt Burns & Davis, we prioritize your needs, ensuring every case is handled with personalized attention and unwavering dedication.
Stories of Success
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"Case Dismissed with Exceptional Representation"
Davis and his team deliver results! Case dismissed on 2nd appearance, professional service, and affordable pricing. Highly recommended for defense needs!
- Giovanni M. -
"Did Not Hang Up Until I Understood"
Nick took the time to answer all my questions and made me feel confident in my case. Professional, thorough, and truly cares—highly recommend!
- Marcela M. -
"Incredibly Knowledgable"
Mr. Davis is incredibly knowledgeable, truly prioritizes his clients, and provides outstanding representation. Highly recommend him for family law matters!
- Jennifer B. -
"Very Professional and Very Attentive"
Mr. Davis handled three criminal cases and got all charges dismissed! Professional, attentive, and highly recommended for anyone in need of expert legal representation.
- Tasha C.
Penalties for Sex Crimes in Texas
Many, if not most, sex crimes in Texas are felony offenses. Sexual assault is a second-degree felony, punishable by a maximum fine of $10,000 and 2 to 20 years in prison. Aggravated sexual assault is a first-degree felony, punishable by a maximum fine of $10,000 and 5 to 99 years of prison. Prostitution and solicitation are typically charged as Class A or B misdemeanors, although in cases with extenuating circumstances or when children are involved, they can be charged as a state jail felony, or even a third, second, or first-degree felony.
Indecent exposure is typically a Class B misdemeanor, while public lewdness is a Class A misdemeanor. Child pornography as a first offense is usually charged as a third-degree felony, but if you have prior convictions, you could face second or first-degree felony charges. Virtually any sex crime involving children will be charged as a felony offense.
Call (817) 873-1883 today or reach out online for your free consultation.
Your Questions, Answered Explore Our FAQ
Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 817-873-1883 today!
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How can a lawyer help with a sex crime charge?Being charged with a sex crime in Texas can leave you extremely anxious about your future—with good reason. Once our attorneys are on your case, we will start fighting for you with the fierce advocacy we are known for. You can rest easy, knowing that we will immediately begin an exhaustive search for evidence in your case and that we will build a solid case on your behalf. With more than a decade of positive results for our clients, we never back down—inside or outside the courtroom.
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Should I hire an attorney if I’ve been accused of a sex crime?There is absolutely no question as to whether you should hire an attorney after being charged with a sex crime. Just being charged with the crime can ruin your reputation and your ability to obtain employment or keep your current job. Hiring a Fort Worth sex crimes attorney from Burns & Davis ensures your rights are protected from start to finish, and that the outcome of your charges will be as positive as possible.
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What should I do if I’ve been falsely accused of a sex crime?It is generally accepted that anywhere from 2-7 percent of sex crime allegations are false. While this is statistically low, if you are the one being falsely accused, it can be a gut-wrenching experience. Never think that because you are innocent you do not need strong legal counsel or that you can simply ignore the charges because you are innocent. Valid or not, the charges will not go away because you are innocent. Hire an experienced Fort Worth sex crimes defense attorney immediately. Don’t talk to the police until you have spoken to an attorney and do write down everything you can remember regarding the time the sex crime was supposed to have taken place.