Willis Sex Crimes Attorney

Sex Crimes Attorney for Clients Charged with Indecency with a Child in Willis, TX

Indecency with a child is a severe criminal offense in Texas, encompassing various forms of inappropriate conduct toward minors. Being charged with such a serious offense can be a highly distressing experience, and these cases can carry considerable legal and social consequences. Understanding the charges you are facing, the potential legal penalties, and the broader social repercussions is important for anyone in this situation. The criminal defense attorneys at Bennett & Bennett are ready to provide experienced legal counsel for those who have been accused of sex crimes.

The Crime of Indecency with a Child in Texas

Indecency with a child is defined under Texas Penal Code 21.11. The statute identifies two primary forms of conduct that constitute this offense:

• Indecent contact - Involves sexual contact with a child under 17 years of age.
• Indecent exposure - Involves exposing one's genitals with the intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire in the presence of a child under 17 years of age.

These actions are taken very seriously under Texas law, with substantial penalties for those convicted.

Legal Penalties for Indecency with a Child

The legal consequences for indecency with a child vary depending on the specific nature of the offense. In the majority of cases, the offense is charged as a second-degree felony. However, cases involving only indecent exposure may result in third-degree felony charges. If convicted of indecency with a child, you may face severe legal penalties, including:

• Prison sentence - If convicted of a second-degree felony, you will face a minimum of two years and a maximum of 20 years in prison. If you are convicted of a third-degree felony, you will face a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
• Fines - In addition to being sent to prison, you may face fines as high as $10,000.
• Sex-offender registration - Conviction requires mandatory registration as a sex offender, which can have lifelong implications of its own.

Additional Sex Crimes

Indecency with a child is not the only sex crime prosecuted in Texas. Other crimes of a sexual nature that are important to be aware of include:

• Sexual assault - According to Texas law, the crime of sexual assault involves non-consensual physical contact or penetration of a sexual nature. Penalties for this offense are often harsh, including two to 20 years in prison and fines reaching up to $10,000.
• Child pornography - Possession of images, videos, or other materials depicting minors engaging in sexual activities is a serious felony offense in Texas. Possession of such material constitutes a third-degree felony, punishable by two to 10 years in prison and a fine of $10,000. However, depending on the amount of materials possessed, penalties can become even more severe.
• Prostitution - In Texas, being convicted as a prostitute is a Class B misdemeanor offense, which can land a person in prison for 180 days and levy a fine of up to $2,000. However, a person soliciting prostitution will face a felony charge for a first offense, potentially landing them in prison for six months to two years in jail and bringing about a fine of $10,000.

Crafting a Defense Strategy

If you are charged with indecency with a child or other sexual offenses, understanding the potential defenses and having a solid legal strategy is an absolute must. Our attorneys can help you determine the best defense strategies, which may include:

• Mistaken identity - Arguing that you are not the person who committed the alleged act.
• Lack of intent - Demonstrating that the act was not intended for sexual gratification.
• False allegations - Proving that the charges are based on false claims, potentially arising from misunderstandings or malicious motives.

Due to the complexity and sensitivity of these cases, securing representation from an experienced defense attorney is critical. Without an attorney on your side, your chances of obtaining a favorable case outcome are slim to none.

Social Consequences of a Conviction

Beyond the immediate legal repercussions, a conviction for indecency with a child or other sex crimes brings about severe social consequences that can affect every aspect of your life:

• Personal relationships - A conviction can devastate your relationships with others. Friends and family might distance themselves, leading to feelings of isolation and stigma. Rebuilding these connections can be extremely challenging and may require time, patience, and professional support.
• Barriers to employment - Employment prospects can be severely limited for people who have been convicted of sex crimes. Many employers are reluctant to hire people who are convicted sex offenders, making it difficult to find stable and gainful employment. This can lead to considerable financial instability and a diminished quality of life.
• Public stigma - The label of "sex offender" can result in social ostracism, harassment, and more. Reintegration into society becomes a difficult process, as social services and support networks may also be limited.

Contact Our Willis Sex Crime Defense Lawyers

Charges of indecency with a child or other sexual offenses in Texas may require you to navigate a maze of legal and social challenges. The respected and dependable attorneys at Bennett & Bennett can give you the best chance of receiving a favorable outcome to your case. Contact us at 713-224-1747 for a confidential consultation.