Dallas Child Sex Abuse Defense Attorney
Defending Against Sex Crimes Involving Minors in DFW
While any sex crime can result in harsh penalties, sex crimes involving minors are especially severe. If you’re accused of a child sex crime in Dallas, partnering with a qualified defense lawyer is imperative to understand the charges against you and build a robust defense.
At J Bowes Law, we understand that navigating child sex abuse allegations can be an overwhelming and stigmatizing experience. A conviction can have permanent consequences on your future, which is why our experienced defense attorney is committed to defending your rights and reputation.
When your liberty is at stake, don’t settle for less than a diligent defense. With a proven track record of results and thousands of cases handled throughout DFW, our child sex abuse attorney can vigorously protect your rights while delivering the high-quality representation you deserve.
Accused of child sex abuse in Dallas? Contact us online to discuss your case with our highly skilled defense attorney.
What Constitutes Child Sex Abuse?
Child sex abuse refers to sexual conduct that harms a child’s mental, emotional, or physical well-being. It’s important to understand that child-related sex offenses aren’t limited to sexual penetration, but encompass a wide range of acts. Securing experienced representation is vital to avoid the severe penalties of a conviction.
How Are Minors Defined Under Texas Law?
In Texas, a minor is any individual under the age of 18. However, the legal age of consent for sexual relations is 17, making it illegal to engage in sexual activities with a person under the age of 17. Because minors cannot legally consent to sex, this is true regardless of whether the act was consensual.
Why Choose Us?
Experienced Defense You Can Trust
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Client-Focused RepresentationWe prioritize your needs and concerns, offering personalized attention and clear communication throughout your case.
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Free ConsultationsWe offer free initial consultations to help you understand your legal options with no upfront cost.
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Proven Trial ExperienceWith over 60 jury trials under his belt, our attorney excels in courtroom battles. If you're looking for someone to fight for you in court, you've found the right firm.
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Unique PerspectiveOur attorney’s experience across the legal system gives him a deeper understanding of clients, providing compassionate and knowledgeable representation.
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Hablamos EspañolWe’re proud to offer legal services in Spanish, ensuring our clients can communicate clearly and get the strong defense they deserve.
Types of Child Sex Crimes We Defend Against
At J Bowes Law, we understand how intimidating and stressful it can be to navigate child sex crime allegations. That’s why our firm is dedicated to providing an aggressive defense tailored to your unique case. Common child sex abuse crimes we defend against include:
Child Molestation (Indecency with a Child)
Child molestation or indecency with a child is a criminal offense codified in Texas Penal Code § 21.11. This crime is defined as engaging in sexual contact or exposure with a child under 17 with the intent to arouse or gratify someone’s sexual desire. Under state law, child molestation is classified as one of the following:
- Indecency with a child by contact: This is a second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.
- Indecency with a child by exposure: This is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.
Child Sexual Assault
In Texas, child sexual assault is broadly defined as sexual intercourse, touching, molestation, and other sexual conduct. While this offense is a second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and $10,000 in fines, aggravated child sexual assault constitutes first-degree felony charges punishable by up to 99 years or life in prison.
Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child
Continuous sexual abuse of a child is a first-degree felony codified in PC § 21.02. Abuse is considered “continuous” if a person commits two or more acts within a 30-day period. This offense encompasses various acts, from statutory rape to unwanted kissing or fondling. A conviction is punishable by 25-99 years in prison for first-time offenders and life in prison without parole for repeat offenders.
Online Solicitation of a Minor
Online solicitation of a minor is a felony offense under PC § 15.031. This crime is committed when a person who is 18 or older uses online messaging to intentionally solicit a minor under 17 to meet for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts. This applies regardless of whether the meet-up actually takes place.
While this is generally a third-degree felony punishable by 2-10 years in prison, the charges may be elevated to a second-degree felony if the act involves a minor under the age of 14. In this case, a conviction is punishable by 2-20 years in prison.
How to Defend Against Sex Crimes Involving Minors
Even good people make mistakes. Whether you had a brief lapse in judgment or were unaware of the illegality of your actions, our firm can help you craft a comprehensive defense to dismiss or reduce the charges against you.
Common defenses against child sex abuse charges include:
- False allegations: Sadly, it isn’t uncommon for child sex abuse crimes to arise from false allegations. If you were falsely accused of a sex crime involving a minor, your lawyer can help you gather evidence to establish an alibi and prove your innocence.
- Romeo and Juliet exception: Texas has a Romeo and Juliet law. Also known as a close-in-age exemption, this permits minors within a certain age range to lawfully consent to sex. If you had consensual sex with someone who was 14-17 years old and within three years of your age, your lawyer can fight for dismissed charges.
- Fourth Amendment violation: If your rights were violated by law enforcement during an illegal search or seizure, your lawyer can fight to dismiss the charges.
- Insufficient evidence: To convict you of child sex abuse, the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence to meet this standard of proof, your attorney may seek a dismissal.
Turn to a DFW Defense Firm with Proven Trial Experience
If you're accused of a sex crime in Dallas-Fort Worth, our firm can work diligently to help you avoid the consequences of a felony conviction. J Bowes Law proudly defends Texans from all walks of life. Regardless of the type or severity of the charges against you, securing experienced representation is vital to protecting your hard-earned reputation.
Our time-tested trial attorney can guide your legal steps wisely by providing caring counsel and aggressive advocacy at every turn, maximizing your chance of obtaining a favorable outcome in criminal court. With extensive litigation experience and complimentary case evaluations available, you can trust us to prioritize your freedom and future.
If you’re accused of child sex abuse in Dallas, don’t throw away your life by failing to secure a skilled defense. Call (469) 850-7197 to schedule a free consultation.
