Using Dallas Sex Crime Lawyers to Avoid Jail and Registry

Using Dallas Sex Crime Lawyers to Avoid Jail and Registry

Being charged with a sex crime in Texas can completely turn your life upside down. Even just being accused can cause you to lose your job, your family, and your reputation in the community. If you are actually convicted of a sex offense, the consequences will follow you for the rest of your life.

That’s why it’s absolutely critical to talk to an experienced Dallas sex crime lawyer as soon as you learn you are being investigated for a sex offense. An attorney can advise you of your rights and start working on your defense right away.

Common Sex Crimes in Dallas

There are many different types of sex crimes you can be charged with in Texas. Some of the most common include:

• Sexual assault or rape
• Statutory rape
• Indecency with a child
• Possession of child pornography
• Indecent exposure
• Prostitution

The specific penalties you face if convicted will depend on the exact crime you are accused of. Sexual assault or child molestation are generally the most serious and carry lengthy prison sentences. But even lower-level sex crimes like indecent exposure can land you in jail for up to a year.

Sex Offender Registration

One of the worst consequences of being convicted of a sex offense in Texas is being required to register as a sex offender. There are three tiers of sex offenders:

• Tier 1 offenders must register for 15 years
• Tier 2 offenders must register for 25 years
• Tier 3 offenders must register for life

Having to register as a sex offender will make it extremely difficult to get a job, find housing, or live a normal life. Your photo, address, and criminal history will be publicly listed on the Texas Sex Offender Registry website.

How a Lawyer Can Help

An experienced Dallas sex crime attorney has the knowledge and resources to build the strongest possible defense in your case. Here are some of the ways a lawyer can help:

• Evaluate the evidence and identify weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case
• Challenge the credibility of the accuser
• Raise doubt about whether you actually committed the crime
• Negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced charges or dismissal
• Advise you of possible defenses, like consent or lack of criminal intent
• Represent you aggressively at trial if necessary

In some cases, a lawyer may even be able to get your charges dropped completely or help you avoid having to register as a sex offender. Even if that’s not possible, an attorney can often negotiate a plea deal for reduced penalties.

Act Quickly to Protect Your Rights

Don’t wait to call an attorney if you are being investigated or charged with a sex crime. The sooner you have an expert lawyer on your side, the better your chances of avoiding long-term consequences.

A skilled sex crime lawyer will immediately start examining the prosecution’s case for weaknesses. They may also advise you not to answer any questions from police until they can be present. What you say prior to obtaining counsel could come back to haunt you.

Choose an Attorney Carefully

Not every lawyer has experience specifically handling sex crime cases. Look for an attorney who:

• Focuses exclusively on criminal defense
• Has successfully defended sex crime cases before
• Understands the complex laws and penalties for sex offenses
• Will aggressively fight the charges against you

Also consider lawyers who are board certified in criminal law or who used to work as prosecutors. Their inside knowledge of the system can help when building a defense.

Understand Your Options

After reviewing your case, your Dallas sex crime lawyer will explain all your options so you can make an informed decision. This includes:

• Potential defenses based on the facts of your case
• Likely outcomes if you go to trial vs. take a plea deal
• Opportunities for getting charges reduced or dismissed
• Worst case scenarios you could face if convicted

Your lawyer will provide expert guidance, but you have the final say in how to proceed. Their job is to represent your best interests at every step.

Conclusion

Being accused of a sex crime in Dallas can ruin your life if you don’t have an experienced attorney on your side. Don’t wait to call a lawyer if you are under investigation or facing charges for a sex offense. An aggressive defense from the start offers the best chance to avoid devastating penalties that will follow you forever.

With so much at stake, it’s critical to have an expert like James Roberts fighting for you. Contact a dedicated sex crime lawyer today to discuss your case confidentiality and start building your defense.