Katy Child Sexual Assault Lawyer

Child Sexual Assault Attorney in Katy, TX

Sexual assault involving a child is one of the most severe criminal charges you can face. A conviction can result in long prison sentences, heavy fines, and registration as a sex offender. A Katy child sexual assault lawyer can defend your rights and can pursue reduced penalties.

Why Choose Segura and Kiatta?

Segura and Kiatta have over 20 years of experience providing professional criminal defense in Katy. We use aggressive defense techniques and results-driven defense strategies to protect our clients’ futures against the harsh Texas child sexual assault penalties. From the arrest through sentencing, we are by your side to defend your rights and freedoms.

Understanding Child Sexual Assault Cases

According to child sexual assault laws, it is illegal to engage in any sexual contact or penetration with someone under the age of 17. At least 1 in four girls and one in 20 boys have experienced sexual abuse as a child. Child sexual assault offense is typically a second-degree felony, reflecting the significant harm sexual assault can have on a child’s safety and development.

Often, child sexual assault cases also involve domestic violence charges. A Katy child sexual assault attorney can help you understand the impact of a domestic violence charge on sexual assault charges.

Texas’s Child Sexual Assault Penalties

Child sexual assault penalties are severe and long-lasting. A conviction can result in up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. In addition to these penalties, you can face the impact of a permanent criminal record and registration as a sex offender. This can impact your employment opportunities, housing, and professional licenses.

Depending on the details of your case, you may face higher penalties. Aggravated child sexual assault is a first-degree felony that could result in up to 99 years in prison. This charge can occur if the victim was 14 or younger, resulted in bodily harm, or involved a weapon.

Why You Should Hire a Child Sexual Assault Lawyer?

Navigating the criminal justice system and building a strong defense can be confusing without legal support. A Katy child sexual assault lawyer can:

• Defend your rights. Being arrested for child sexual assault is one of the most frightening experiences you can face. From the moment you are arrested by the Katy Police Department, a lawyer can defend your rights against self-incrimination, procedural errors, and illegal searches. They can prevent invasions of your rights and prevent police from gaining additional evidence by offering advice and communicating on your behalf.
• Analyze evidence. To be convicted of child sexual abuse, there must be sufficient evidence to prove your guilt. If you hire a child sexual assault lawyer, they can critically review evidence such as medical records, forensic reports, and witness statements. A lawyer can identify inconsistencies or errors that can be used in your defense. They can also challenge evidence that is improperly obtained or misrepresented.
• Advocate for favorable outcomes. A lawyer can build a legal strategy tailored to your case that pursues lighter charges or penalties. In court, their relentless advocacy makes sure their legal strategy is presented effectively, allowing your side of the story to be heard. Ultimately, a lawyer can push for outcomes such as:
  • Reduced charges
  • Reduced child sexual assault penalties
  • Alternative sentencing options
  • Not guilty verdicts

Defenses Against Child Sexual Assault

It may seem difficult or impossible to defend against these charges in Katy. However, your lawyer can explain potential defenses for your case. Child sexual assault laws allow defendants to craft a defense strategy on several case details that may lead to dismissed or reduced charges. These defenses include:

• If you were no more than three years older than the victim
• If the conduct was consensual
• If you were not a registered sex offender
• If you had no prior sexual assault convictions
• If there is insufficient evidence to prove your guilt

Even if these details do not apply to your case, a lawyer’s advocacy and negotiation skills may still lead to reduced charges or penalties.

FAQs

What Is the Lowest Charge of Sexual Assault?

In Texas, the lowest charge for sexual assault involving non-consensual penetration is a state jail felony, though this offense is more typically classified as a second-degree felony. For sexual assault of a child, the lowest charge is a second-degree felony. If you were charged with a higher offense, your lawyer may be able to negotiate a plea deal or present evidence that reduces your charge.

What Evidence Is Needed to Charge Someone With Sexual Assault?

To be charged with sexual assault, there must be sufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty of committing a non-consensual sexual act. A variety of evidence can be used as proof, including victim and witness testimony, medical records, forensic evidence, and digital communication records.

What Is Jessica’s Law in Texas?

In Texas, Jessica’s Law increases the penalties for child sexual assault. This includes a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison with no option for early parole. A prison sentence can last up to 99 years. Jessica’s Law also provides additional penalties for certain cases, such as if there was continuous sexual assault or if the child was under the age of six.

What Are the Two Types of Reporting for Sexual Assault?

The two main types of reporting are through contacting law enforcement directly or by telling a healthcare professional about the crime. Both of these methods can initiate an investigation into a sexual assault case, which may lead to an arrest. No matter how the offense is reported, if you are arrested, you should request to contact a lawyer and then remain silent.

Speak With a Katy Child Sexual Assault Attorney Who Can Defend Your Rights

A child sexual assault charge can have a permanent impact on your rights and freedoms, which is why defending against these charges is critical. Contact Segura and Kiatta to learn how we can build a defense that seeks to minimize the impact of your charges and help you move forward.