Fort Bend County Child Molestation Defense Lawyer

Fort Bend County Child Molestation Defense Attorney

Child molestation is a broad term that generally refers to non-consensual acts with a child 16 and younger of a sexual nature. Child molestation is not as serious a sex crime as rape, but it can lead to serious criminal penalties that could include prison time and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Anyone charged with this type of offense can hire a Fort Bend County child molestation defense lawyer to represent them in court.

The law firm of Segura & Kiatta has represented clients accused of serious sex crimes, including child molestation, and helped them secure favorable outcomes for their cases. Sex crimes involving minors are taken very seriously by prosecutors, and strong legal representation is key for securing an outcome that does not lead to the harshest penalties under the law. Hiring a Fort Bend County criminal defense lawyer can help ensure the most favorable outcome in these situations.

Why Choose Segura and Kiatta?

Child molestation charges can lead to serious jail or prison time. The mere allegation of child molestation can be devastating to your personal life and professional career. Choosing the right legal team is crucial. At Segura & Kiatta, we bring over 20 years of experience and a deep commitment to defending clients in Fort Bend.

Unlike firms that push plea bargains, we prioritize aggressive defense strategies and personalized representation. We have a board-certified attorney on staff, and all of our lawyers are experienced in complex cases. We fight for your freedom, future, and good name. Every client receives a compassionate, confidential, and thorough defense – because you’re more than a case number to us.

What Constitutes Child Molestation?

In Texas, child molestation refers to indecent acts committed with a child. Child molestation occurs when an adult engages in sexual contact with a child or intentionally exposes themselves or causes the child to expose their private parts with the intent to gratify sexual desires.

Under the Texas criminal code, anyone under 17 is not able to give consent, so any sexual acts with a minor are deemed unlawful. Even if the adult was unaware of the child’s age, they may still face charges. Offenses involving sexual contact are second-degree felonies, while exposure-related offenses are third-degree felonies, each carrying serious legal penalties.

A conviction for a second-degree felony comes with a prison sentence range of two to 20 years. A third-degree felony could result in a sentence of two to 10 years. Either criminal charge could also come with heavy fines upon conviction and a requirement to register as a sex offender.

Criminal Defense Strategies for Defendants Accused of Child Molestation

Unlike other serious crimes, criminal intent may not provide an effective defense for child molestation. Any person under the age of 17 cannot give consent for sexual acts under Texas law. This means that consent does not play a role in this type of crime. Not knowing the child was underage is also not a plausible defense.

The goal of a defense attorney could be to prove that the alleged crime did not take place or that you are not the person who committed the crime. Defense strategies may include challenging the validity of the evidence, scrutinizing witness statements, and highlighting procedural errors. For instance, examining inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements or questioning the reliability of evidence can be pivotal.

An attorney may use professionals like psychologists or other witnesses to challenge assumptions or biases that may have influenced investigations. Having an alibi witness who can state that you were not at the scene of the crime when it occurred strengthens your case. A defense attorney focuses on discrediting prosecution arguments that could lead to a dismissal or reduced charges.

Fort Bend County Child Molestation Defense FAQs

Q: Is There a Statute of Limitations on Child Molestation in Fort Bend County?

A: In Fort Bend County, statutes of limitations for sex crimes vary by the offense, with stricter rules applying to cases involving children. Following a 2007 amendment to Article 12.01(1) of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, crimes like aggravated sexual assault of a child, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and indecency with a child no longer have a statute of limitations.

Q: How Long Do Child Molesters Go to Jail in Fort Bend County?

A: Child molesters can go to state jails for long periods of time if they are convicted. The jail sentence varies since the crime is based on a specific offense. Sexual contact with a minor under 17 is a second-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Exposure with intent to gratify is a third-degree felony, carrying 2 to 10 years in prison and similar fines.

Q: What Happens When Someone Is Accused of Molestation?

A: When someone is accused of molestation, they are typically arrested and charged with a crime. They may or may not be released from jail while they await trial or a plea bargain. The accused has the right to legal counsel. Not every person accused of child molestation is ultimately found guilty of a sex crime. Having legal representation can make a considerable difference in the outcome of a case.

Q: What Counts as Molestation?

A: Molestation typically involves either the exposure of private parts in front of a child with the goal of sexual gratification or physical contact. Molestation does not involve any form of penetration, but it can involve physical contact that is sexual in nature and non-violent. Either charge would be vigorously prosecuted in Texas.

Schedule Your Child Molestation Consultation Today

A criminal charge for molesting a child can have serious consequences for your personal life and professional career. A conviction could lead to a lengthy prison sentence, and either felony charge would come with a minimum prison sentence of two years. Having legal representation can greatly improve your chances for a favorable outcome.

The legal team at Segura & Kiatta can work to reduce the charges you are facing or to have them dropped entirely. We understand the state’s laws regarding sex crimes and know how to poke holes in the prosecution’s case. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.