Travis County Sex Crime Attorney

Facing Sex Crime Accusations in Travis County, TX?

If you are facing sex charges in Travis County, TX, the legal stakes are incredibly high. These offenses carry harsh penalties that can include long prison sentences, hefty fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming and frightening these accusations can be. As your dedicated Travis County sex crime lawyer, we are committed to protecting your rights, your reputation, and your future.

Contact our Travis County sex crime attorneys at (512) 991-0576 to see what we can do for you.

What is a Sex Crime?

Sex crimes encompass a wide range of illegal activities, typically involving non-consensual sexual conduct. In Texas, a sex crime is an offense that violates the state’s laws on sexual behavior, with the severity of the crime often depending on factors such as the age of the victim, the presence of coercion or force, and whether the crime involved the internet or other forms of technology.

Common Types of Sex Crimes in Texas

Sex crimes cover a broad spectrum of offenses, and each has its own set of legal standards and penalties. Some of the most common sex crimes in Texas include:

• Sexual Assault: Often referred to as rape, sexual assault involves non-consensual sexual contact with another person. In Texas, sexual assault can occur even if there is no physical force but instead involves manipulation or coercion.
• Aggravated Sexual Assault: Aggravated sexual assault is a more severe form of sexual assault, typically involving factors like the use of a deadly weapon, the age of the victim (under 14), or causing serious injury to the victim.
• Indecency with a Child: Indecency with a child occurs when an individual engages in sexual contact or exposes themselves to a minor under the age of 17.
• Online Solicitation of a Minor: Online solicitation of a minor involves communicating with someone believed to be under 17 years old with the intent to engage in sexual conduct. This offense has gained increased attention in recent years as the use of the internet for predatory behavior has become more prevalent.
• Child Pornography: Possessing, distributing, or producing child pornography is illegal in Texas. Even a single image or video can result in serious charges that lead to extensive prison time and sex offender registration.
• Prostitution and Solicitation: Prostitution charges involve engaging in or offering to engage in sexual acts in exchange for money. Solicitation refers to the act of asking or encouraging someone to engage in prostitution.

Sex crimes carry some of the harshest penalties in state law. Depending on the severity of the charge, consequences can include:

• Prison sentences ranging from several years to life imprisonment.
• Fines reaching up to $10,000 or more.
• Mandatory registration as a sex offender, which imposes restrictions on where you can live, work, and travel.
• Permanent criminal record, which can make it difficult to find employment, secure housing, or obtain loans.

Because of the life-changing nature of these penalties, it is critical to seek legal representation as soon as possible if you are accused of a sex crime.

Legal Defenses to Sex Crimes

Sex crime accusations can be based on misunderstandings, miscommunications, or even false allegations. Because the consequences of a conviction are life-altering, it is crucial to mount a robust defense.

Common types of legal defenses against sex charges include:

• Consent: One of the most common defenses to sexual assault charges is the argument of consent. If both parties willingly participated in the act, then the accused may not be guilty of a crime. However, this defense can be complicated and often comes down to a "he said, she said" situation, which is why thorough investigation and evidence gathering are essential.
• False Allegations: Unfortunately, some people make false accusations of sex crimes out of revenge, jealousy, or other malicious motivations. A well-crafted defense can uncover inconsistencies in the accuser's story, expose ulterior motives, or find alibis that prove the accused's innocence.
• Mistaken Identity: In cases involving online solicitation or sexual assault, mistaken identity can play a significant role. Misidentification of the perpetrator, especially in digital contexts or dark conditions, can lead to wrongful accusations.
• Lack of Evidence: The burden of proof in a criminal case is on the prosecution, meaning they must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the crime was committed. In some sex crime cases, there may be little or no physical evidence linking the accused to the alleged crime. Our lawyers are skilled at identifying and challenging weak or circumstantial evidence.
• Entrapment: Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. This defense is particularly relevant in cases involving online solicitation, where law enforcement officers may pose as minors to lure individuals into illegal actions.

Why Choose Us?

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we understand the sensitive nature of sex crime cases. We know that these allegations can have a devastating impact on your life, your family, and your future. That’s why our Travis County sex crime attorneys provide compassionate, non-judgmental, and aggressive defense.

Our attorneys have a deep understanding of Texas criminal law and are skilled in handling complex sex crime cases. We work diligently to investigate the details of your case, identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument, and advocate tirelessly on your behalf.

To schedule a consultation with our Travis County sex crime lawyers, call (512) 991-0576.