San Marcos Sex Crime Attorney

Facing Sex Crime Allegations in San Marcos, TX?

A conviction for a sex crime can have life-altering consequences, impacting your career, reputation, and freedom. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we understand the gravity of these charges and are committed to providing an aggressive and knowledgeable defense. Our experienced San Marcos sex crime lawyers are here to protect your rights, explore all available legal defenses, and guide you through the complexities of the legal system.

Wondering how to protect your future if you’ve been charged with a sex crime? Call Cofer & Connelly, PLLC today at (512) 991-0576 or contact us online now.

Common Types of Sex Crimes in Texas

In Texas, a sex crime refers to any criminal act that involves illegal or non-consensual sexual conduct. These offenses can range from inappropriate touching to serious crimes like sexual assault and exploitation. The Texas Penal Code defines various sex crimes, and the severity of the offense typically depends on factors such as the age of the victim, the nature of the act, and whether force or coercion was used.

Some of the common types of sex crimes include:

• Sexual Assault: Sexual assault, commonly referred to as rape, involves non-consensual sexual contact or penetration. In Texas, sexual assault is a second-degree felony that carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration. Consent plays a pivotal role in these cases, and establishing the absence of consent is often central to the prosecution’s case.
• Aggravated Sexual Assault: Aggravated sexual assault involves sexual contact or penetration coupled with aggravating factors, such as the use of a deadly weapon, threats of violence, or causing serious bodily injury. Aggravated sexual assault is a first-degree felony, with penalties including up to life imprisonment. Charges may be enhanced if the victim is underage or disabled.
• Indecency with a Child: This crime involves inappropriate sexual contact or exposure to a minor under the age of 17. 
• Child Pornography: Possessing, distributing, or creating child pornography is illegal under both Texas and federal law. Convictions for child pornography offenses carry harsh penalties, including substantial prison time, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Even a single image or video can lead to a felony charge, and each image may count as a separate offense.
• Online Solicitation of a Minor: With the increased use of the internet, online solicitation of a minor has become a significant focus of law enforcement. This crime involves using digital communication, such as text messaging, social media, or email, to engage in sexually explicit conversations or arrange meetings with minors.
• Public Lewdness and Indecent Exposure: Though often considered lesser offenses, public lewdness and indecent exposure can still have significant legal consequences. These crimes involve engaging in sexual acts in public or exposing oneself with the intent to arouse.

Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction

Being convicted of a sex crime can have devastating, long-term effects on nearly every aspect of your life. Beyond the immediate penalties, you may face challenges that can follow you for years, if not the rest of your life.

Prison Time and Fines

Sex crimes in Texas often carry lengthy prison sentences, ranging from several years to life imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. Fines can also be substantial, adding financial strain to an already difficult situation.

Sex Offender Registration

One of the most significant consequences of a sex crime conviction is mandatory registration as a sex offender. In Texas, sex offender registration is public, meaning anyone can access your information, including employers, neighbors, and family members. Registration can limit where you live, work, and even travel. Failing to comply with registration requirements can lead to additional criminal charges.

Loss of Reputation and Employment

A sex crime conviction can tarnish your personal and professional reputation. Even if charges are dropped or you are acquitted, the stigma of being accused of a sex crime can affect your relationships, career, and social standing. Many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with a sex crime conviction, and professional licenses may be revoked.

Restrictions on Custody and Visitation

If you are convicted of a sex crime involving a minor, you may face significant restrictions on child custody or visitation rights. Courts will often err on the side of caution, prioritizing the safety and well-being of the child, which could lead to limited or supervised visitation.

Legal Defenses to Sex Crimes

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we believe that everyone is entitled to a strong defense, regardless of the nature of the charges. Sex crime cases are often complex and emotionally charged, but there are several potential defenses that we can use to challenge the prosecution’s case, such as the following:

• Consent: In many sex crime cases, the question of consent is central to the defense. If both parties engaged in consensual sexual activity, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the act was non-consensual. Evidence such as text messages, witness testimony, or prior relationships may be used to demonstrate that the encounter was consensual.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, the wrong person may be accused of the crime due to mistaken identity or unreliable eyewitness testimony. This defense can be particularly relevant in cases involving online solicitation or crimes committed in dark or crowded environments.
• False Allegations: Unfortunately, false accusations of sex crimes do occur, often motivated by personal vendettas, custody disputes, or attempts to gain financial or legal advantages. A skilled defense attorney will investigate the accuser’s motives and credibility, looking for inconsistencies in their story or evidence that supports your innocence.
• Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is insufficient, unclear, or based on unreliable testimony, your attorney can argue that the case should be dismissed or result in an acquittal.
• Constitutional Violations: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the investigation, such as conducting an illegal search or seizure, your attorney may be able to suppress critical evidence. Without this evidence, the prosecution’s case may collapse.

Why Choose Cofer & Connelly, PLLC?

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, our San Marcos sex crime lawyers have years of experience defending clients against a wide variety of sex crime charges. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights, reputation, and future. Our team is committed to providing personalized legal strategies tailored to the specifics of your case. From negotiating plea deals to fighting for your innocence in court, we will stand by your side every step of the way.

Call (512) 991-0576 today to schedule your initial consultation.