Friendswood Sex Crimes Lawyer

Sex Crimes Lawyers Protecting the Rights of Those Accused in Friendswood

As a teacher, facing allegations of an improper relationship with a student can be incredibly distressing. Such charges not only jeopardize your professional career, but they can also tarnish your personal reputation and impact your mental well-being. Whether you have only been accused or are facing full-blown criminal charges, a lawyer at Bennett & Bennett is ready to aggressively defend your rights and fight for a favorable case outcome. We can help you determine the best ways to respond to accusations of sex crimes and defend against a conviction.

What Constitutes an Improper Teacher/Student Relationship?

In Texas, an improper relationship between an educator and a student is considered a second-degree felony. The law outlines several criteria for this offense, including any form of sexual contact or communication that is deemed inappropriate, whether it occurs on or off school property. Even consensual relationships between teachers and students are strictly prohibited, as the power dynamics involved complicate matters significantly.

Immediate Steps to Take When Facing Allegations

If you find yourself accused of having an improper relationship with a student, taking immediate and calculated steps is paramount, including:

• Seek legal representation - Contact a criminal defense attorney with experience in cases like yours as soon as possible. At Bennett & Bennett, we can help you navigate the legal system and safeguard your interests.
• Preserve evidence - Document all interactions with the student in question, if applicable, and gather any relevant emails, messages, or witness statements that may support your defense.
• Do not contact the student - Avoid any form of communication with the student involved or their family to prevent further complications. Make sure to follow the legal advice provided to you by your attorney.

Battling Against False Allegations of Improper Teacher/Student Conduct

False allegations can arise from misunderstandings, miscommunications, or even malice. Regardless of the reason, such allegations demand a robust defense:

• Verify your alibi - If you have evidence that you were elsewhere when the alleged incidents occurred, gather and present it to your attorney. Surveillance footage, attendance logs, and witness testimonies can serve as alibis.
• Character witnesses - People who can vouch for your professional and personal integrity are invaluable. Colleagues, friends, and even other students can provide statements or testimony about your character and behavior.
• Digital evidence - In the age of technology, most communications leave a digital trail. Messages, social media interactions, and emails can help demonstrate the context and nature of your relationship with the student, possibly proving that it was purely professional.

Legal Defenses to Consider

Several legal defenses can be employed in battling charges of improper relationships:

• Lack of evidence - The prosecution bears the burden of proof. Your case may be dismissed if they cannot provide substantial evidence to back their claims.
• Mistaken identity - In some instances, the individual making the allegations might be mistaken about the person involved. Proving you were not the teacher in question can exonerate you.
• Consent defense - While consent is not a defense under Texas law when it comes to improper relationships, if the context shows that no sexual or inappropriate conduct occurred, this information could help in negotiating charges or dismissals.

Impact on Your Career and Future

Facing allegations of improper relationships can have long-lasting implications:

• Professional repercussions - While on administrative leave or after an investigation, your teaching credentials and job may be seriously jeopardized. Proving your innocence is crucial to preserving your career.
• Social and psychological impact - Allegations of this nature bring a social stigma that can be difficult to shake. Mental health support from therapists or counselors might be necessary to navigate this difficult period.

Contact Our Friendswood, TX Crimes Against Children Defense Lawyers

Navigating charges of an improper teacher/student relationship can be daunting, but the issues you face are not necessarily insurmountable. With the right legal assistance, evidence, and support network, you can work toward proving your innocence and reclaiming your life and career. For professional legal advice, contact Bennett & Bennett. Call us at 713-224-1747 to learn how we can help you.