Dallas Statutory Rape Lawyer
Charges of statutory rape should not be taken lightly, as a conviction could change the course of your life. You’re entitled to a fair defense, and a Dallas statutory rape attorney at Chris Lewis & Associates, P.C. can and will defend you against these charges.
The crime of rape is when one person forces or coerces another person to engage in sexual intercourse without that person’s consent. Statutory rape is when an adult engages in sexual intercourse with a minor who is below the age of eighteen but above the age of fourteen.
Statutory rape is a felony offense, and if you’re convicted of this crime you could be sentenced to time in jail or prison, fines, probation, or community service. In addition, a statutory rape offense will go on your criminal record, affecting your life forever. In some cases, you could even be required to register as a sex offender.
If you’re being charged with statutory rape, contact a Dallas statutory rape lawyer at our firm for help building your defense.
Understanding the Charge of Statutory Rape in Dallas, TX
The crime of statutory rape falls under the category of sexual assault in the state of Texas. There are several categories of statutory rape as it’s laid out in the statute. A person can be prosecuted for aggravated sexual assault if they have sexual intercourse with a person below the age of fourteen, regardless of the defendant’s age.
Sexual assault occurs if a person engages in sexual intercourse with a person who is fourteen, fifteen, or sixteen, with the defendant being an adult, 18 or older.
Indecency with a child is when a minor below the age of seventeen has sexual contact, but not sexual intercourse, with a person who is more than three years older than them.
Penalties You Could Face if Convicted of Statutory Rape in Texas
Statutory rape crimes are usually prosecuted as felonies, and you could spend time in jail or prison as a result of a conviction. Sex offender registration is not always ordered, but it can be in many cases. In addition to the legal penalties you will likely face if convicted, you could face other negative issues as well.
You could face social stigmatization, family issues, mental health issues, difficulty securing employment, difficulty securing housing, and a number of other life consequences. A Dallas sexual assault lawyer with our firm might be able to help you get these charges reduced or dismissed.
Confer with a Statutory Rape Attorney in Dallas, Texas
The charge of statutory rape is serious, and you should take it seriously. Your future is on the line, but it is possible to get charges such as these dismissed or reduced. You are probably fearful of what the future holds, but you don’t have to accept the first plea agreement that comes your way. A lawyer could be able to improve the situation, but you will have to reach out.
To get in contact with a Dallas statutory rape lawyer, call Chris Lewis & Associates, P.C. at 214-665-6930. You can also reach our firm through the online contact form below.
