Sexual assault in Texas covers various acts but factors like the ages of those involved matter a lot. For example, charges of sexual assault by minors are treated much differently than sexual assaults perpetrated by adults. Show
The age of the alleged victim and offender will determine whether or not the matter is handled in the juvenile system or traditional adult courts. It also influences the consequences of a conviction, which can be tremendous and life-long. No matter what, if your minor child is accused of sexual assault in Texas, you need to take the allegations seriously right away and contact an experienced Houston sexual assault lawyer. A dedicated attorney can explain your child’s rights and options. At The Law Offices of Ned Barnett, we know the juvenile system, how to avoid formal adult charges, and will make sure the other side of the sorry gets told. To request a free and confidential case consultation , contact us online or call (713) 222-6767 today. Minors Facing Sexual Assault Charges in TexasAccording to Texas law, any sexual contact with a child under the age of 17 is considered sexual assault. For cases in which all participants are under the age of 17, no exception is made. Even if the sexual contact is consensual, it is still illegal. Texas statutory rape laws state that if you have consensual sex with someone below the age of consent, you have committed sexual assault. “Romeo and Juliet” Defense for Minors in Consensual RelationshipsThe Texas Penal Code does provide a defense in cases where those involved are close in age. According to this “Romeo and Juliet” clause, it is an affirmative defense against sexual assault charges if the:
Contact a Sexual Assault Lawyer for Help TodayWith how wide-reaching sexual assault laws are, it can be difficult to know whether a minor’s actions are criminal. Your child may be facing a felony, which is punishable by a lengthy prison sentence and large fines. Even if the matter is confined to the juvenile system, the consequences can include time in custody and a lasting stigma attached. When you are dealing with such severe consequences, you need someone who knows the ins and outs of the law. An experienced sexual assault lawyer will have the knowledge of the law that is necessary to help find the defense that’s right for your child. Contact The Law Offices of Ned Barnett to speak to a skilled attorney that will fight for your case. Call us today at (713) 222-6767, or reach out online to schedule a free case consultation.
Can a minor be charged with assault in Texas?A juvenile who commits an assault under § 22.01, and causes serious bodily injury, or uses or exhibits a deadly weapon during the commission of the assault will be charged with aggravated assault in Texas.
At what age can a child be charged in Texas?In Texas, a person can be charged in a juvenile court for criminal offenses committed on or after his 10th birthday. These offenses can range anywhere from a class C misdemeanor up to and including capital murder. A person who is at least 10 years old and under the age of 17 can be charged as a juvenile.
Can a child be prosecuted for assault?The Youth Criminal Justice Act outlines that minors should receive lesser sentences than adults, sometimes even just a warning. That said, it is still possible to get a youth criminal record from almost any criminal charge. A great form of protection for any minor is to have an assault lawyer on their side.
Can a minor be charged with a felony in Texas?In the state of Texas, a child can be charged with a felony or misdemeanor, just like an adult. A juvenile offender can also be charged for crimes based on his age such as truancy. However, unlike adult criminal cases, are handled in civil proceedings.
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