In Texas, the laws are very clear about what constitutes sexual abuse of a child. However, even with these laws, it can be difficult to prove innocence without the help of a knowledgeable child sexual abuse lawyer.
The sexual abuse of a child is a serious sex crime and defines any number of acts that are harmful to children’s mental, emotional or physical welfare. These acts include, but are not limited to rape, sexual contact, intercourse, sodomy, penetration, indecent exposure, child pornography and prostitution. By motivating or failing to prevent abuse, a person can be accused of child sexual abuse. In Texas, specific charges are listed under Texas Penal Code 22.011, 22.021 and 21.11.
There are actually three main charges that defendants receive when accused of sexually abusing a child, including child sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault of a child and indecency with a child. Aggravated sexual assault carries the harshest sentence if found guilty. In Texas, a child is defined as anyone under the age of 17.
The punishments for sexual abuse depend on the charge and degree of abuse. However, penalties can be very severe for those found guilty of abusing a child.
Fines can go up to $10,000 if convicted and prison sentences range from two to 20 years depending on the charge. Aggravated child sexual assault is a felony that is punishable with five to 99 years in prison. Life imprisonment is also a viable sentence for certain aggravated child sexual assault cases in Texas.
When charged with a sexual offense against a child, defendants have rights just like everyone else. Consulting a child sexual abuse attorney who is knowledgeable in laws about sex crimes is important to beating a sexual abuse accusation. Lack of evidence, police bias, confusing testimony and good reports of character can heavily influence the outcome of a child abuse trial.
If you have been accused, consulting with a sexual abuse of a child lawyer is very important. Brett A. Podolsky is a board certified Houston criminal lawyer.
You can contact Brett A. Podolsky for a free consultation 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 713-227-0087.
