Key 2025 Texas Criminal Law Changes Every Texan Must Know

Every two years, the Texas Legislature passes new laws that can significantly impact criminal cases across the state. The 2025 session brought major updates affecting bail, sexual assault, AI-generated crimes, firearms, and more. Understanding these changes is critical if you or a loved one is facing criminal charges. Segura & Kiatta, experienced criminal defense attorneys serving Fort Bend and Harris County, explain the most important updates and what they mean for your rights.

Updated Bail Reform in Texas

One of the most significant changes in 2025 is the expansion of judicial authority to deny bail for serious offenses, including:

• Murder
• Aggravated assault
• Sexual offenses
• Human trafficking

Prosecutors must show that the accused is a danger to the community or unlikely to appear in court. This makes the bail process more adversarial, highlighting the need for a skilled criminal defense attorney to challenge these allegations and advocate for pretrial release. Being denied bail can drastically change the course of a case, so early legal representation is crucial.

New Definition of Consent in Sexual Assault Cases

Texas law now specifies that individuals who are intoxicated or impaired to the point they cannot make an informed decision are legally unable to consent. This change increases the scope of sexual assault prosecutions, making immediate legal representation essential for anyone under investigation. Learn more about how Segura & Kiatta handle sex crime defenses.

AI-Generated Images Now Covered Under Child Pornography Laws

Texas now includes AI-generated images in child pornography statutes. Creating, sharing, or possessing sexually explicit AI images of children—even when no real child is involved—is a crime. Convictions carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration. Our attorneys at Segura & Kiatta can help navigate these complex charges.

New Criminal Offense: Jugging

“Jugging,” or following someone from a bank or ATM and robbing them, is now a felony. If violence or weapons are involved, it becomes a first-degree felony with penalties of 5–99 years or life in prison. This demonstrates Texas’s commitment to cracking down on organized and opportunistic theft.

New Rules for Improper Notarization

Improper notarization now carries criminal penalties:

• Class A misdemeanor for general violations
• Felony if involving real estate

This law prevents fraud, deed theft, and property-related crimes.

Additional 2025 Criminal Law Updates

Other key changes include:

• THC Vape Laws: Selling THC vape pens is illegal; possession may only be criminal if THC exceeds legal limits.
• Short-Barreled Firearms: Texas decriminalized possession of certain short-barreled firearms.
• Probation Restrictions for Stalking: Those convicted of stalking are no longer eligible for probation.

Why Staying Informed Protects Your Rights?

The 2025 legislative session produced critical changes affecting criminal defense throughout Texas. Working with a knowledgeable attorney ensures your defense strategy accounts for these updates.

Contact Segura & Kiatta for Expert Criminal Defense

If you or a loved one faces criminal charges, don’t wait. The new 2025 laws can impact bail, sentencing, and your overall defense. Contact Segura & Kiatta today at 281-570-6400 or schedule a free consultation to protect your rights, freedom, and future.