Katy Sexual Assault Lawyer

Sexual Assault Attorney in Katy, TX

Sexual assault is a felony in the state of Texas that carries serious penalties, including prison, fines, and sex offender registration. When your freedom and future are on the line, contact a Katy, TX, sexual assault lawyer at Segura & Kiatta to help you navigate sexual assault laws and handle your case. These charges are not something you want to leave to chance.

Being accused of sexual assault can have profound personal and social repercussions. Beyond the legal consequences, you may face stigma, damage to relationships, and emotional distress. When you hire a Katy sex crime lawyer to work on your case, they can review the details to see what options are available to you and alleviate significant stress.

How Segura & Kiatta Can Help

At Segura & Kiatta, we have over 20 years of experience representing thousands of residents in both misdemeanor and felony cases, and we know the law. When you hire a sexual assault lawyer at our firm, you are hiring a Katy sexual assault attorney who offers prompt and dedicated service for handling your sexual assault case.

We also understand the courts. Sexual assault criminal cases in Katy, Texas, go through the Fort Bend County, Harris County, or Waller County court systems, depending on the specific location of the arrest. Regardless of which court your case goes through, our legal team can help every step of the way, meeting all important deadlines and requirements.

What Is Sexual Assault?

In Texas, sexual assault is defined as intentionally or knowingly causing penetration of a sexual organ, or the mouth of another person, without their consent. If you are facing sexual assault charges, you are not alone. In 2024, the United States Sentencing Commission reported 1,430 cases involving sexual abuse.

Key components of sexual assault in Texas, according to Penal Code § 22.011, include:

• Lack of consent: Occurs when the actor compels submission through physical force, violence, or threats
• Incapacity: Includes situations where the victim is unconscious, physically unable to resist, or suffers from a mental disorder that makes them incapable of understanding or resisting
• Coercion: Involves using pressure, manipulation, threats, or force to compel someone to engage in sexual activity against their will
• Substance abuse: Administering drugs or alcohol without the victim’s knowledge to impair their ability to control or appraise the situation

Sexual assault is common. Someone experiences sexual assault every 68 seconds in the United States. Furthermore, nearly half of women and more than one in six men have experienced some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetimes. As a result, you can expect prosecutors to come down harshly to deter these crimes.

Sexual Assault Penalties and Consequences

If you are convicted of sexual assault, the penalties can be severe. In the second degree, you can face two to 20 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000. For aggravated sexual assault in the first degree, you can face five to 99 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000. For cases involving children under six years old, there is a minimum 25-year prison sentence.

The consequences of these criminal penalties can be life-altering. In addition to prison and fines, you can also expect a mandatory sex offender registration, parole limitations, random drug testing, a curfew, and limitations on where you may live. You may also be unable to qualify for federal financial aid or obtain specific professional licenses.

Sexual Assault Defenses

In a sex-related criminal case, the defendant’s basic defense is his or her innocence. He or she may argue an alibi, such as being in another location at the moment the alleged sex crime occurred. If this sounds familiar and you are facing false allegations of sexual assault, it is critical to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to begin building your defense.

Other possible defenses to challenge accusations against may be a consent defense or misidentification. Depending on your circumstances, we may be able to prove your innocence based on numerous factors in your case. No two cases are the same, so our experienced Katy sex crime lawyer can review all details to identify possible defenses.

Why Should I Hire a Sexual Assault Lawyer?

Hiring a Katy, TX sexual assault lawyer at Segura & Kiatta is critical to navigate complex sexual assault laws and challenge evidence against you. In addition to protecting your rights, our sexual assault attorney can represent you in the courtroom. By building a strong defense to prove your innocence, our legal team can help you keep your freedom in Katy.

FAQs

How Much Do Sexual Assault Criminal Defense Attorneys Charge?

Sexual assault criminal defense attorneys typically charge a wide range of hourly rates for total case representation. There are also initial retainer fees, which can vary significantly. The total cost of a sexual assault criminal defense attorney will depend on the complexity of the case, the attorney’s experience, and your location.

When Should I Contact a Sexual Assault Criminal Defense Attorney?

You should contact a sexual assault criminal defense attorney the moment you hear about an allegation against you. If you retain an attorney before the police file charges in court, they may be able to convince the police or prosecutor not to file charges. If you wait to see if the government charges, you may miss an opportunity to avoid charges altogether.

Do Sexual Assault Charges Go on Your Permanent Record?

Yes, sexual assault charges and convictions in Texas generally go on your permanent record and remain there for life, creating, in many cases, a lasting public record. Convictions for sexual offenses are exceptionally difficult to remove, often making them ineligible for expungement or sealing. Speaking to legal counsel early is critical to your freedom.

Why Do Sexual Assault Cases Get Dismissed?

The courts frequently dismiss sexual assault cases due to a combination of high burdens of proof, lack of physical or forensic evidence, and issues with witness credibility. Common reasons for dismissal include insufficient evidence, victims recanting or becoming uncooperative, and procedural errors by law enforcement, such as violations of rights.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

When you are facing sexual assault charges in Texas, you need a Katy, TX sexual assault lawyer by your side right away to protect your rights and stand against allegations. At Segura & Kiatta, we have over two decades of experience to apply to your sexual assault case. Contact us to schedule your free consultation today and secure your freedom.