Houston Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer For Serious Sex Crime Accusations

Last updated on March 25, 2026

Being accused of a sex crime is one of the most serious, life-altering things that can happen to you. It is important to remember that while prosecutors will come down hard on you for these accusations, you are always innocent until proven guilty.

The Law Offices of Charles T. Ganz defends those accused of crimes in Greater Houston. I’m Charles T. Ganz, a sex crimes defense lawyer with decades of experience, and I believe everyone is entitled to a robust criminal defense when they need it most.

What To Do If You Have Been Accused

Being accused of a sex crime requires careful planning and the help of a Houston sex crimes attorney. Immediate steps include:

• Contacting a dedicated sex crimes attorney to discuss options confidentially.
• Avoiding self-incrimination in any communication or online activity.
• Gathering all relevant documentation and evidence to strengthen the defense.
• Cooperating with legal counsel to craft a consistent and accurate response.

I offer confidential consultations, discreet representation and direct attorney attention because I have a limited caseload.

Definition Of A Sex Crime In Texas

In Texas, a sex crime is defined as any illegal act that involves forced or nonconsensual sexual conduct. The Texas Penal Code sets out various types of sex offenses, including:

Sexual Assault (Rape)

It involves nonconsensual sexual contact or intercourse, including sexual conduct involving a minor.

These charges hinge on the absence of consent and can result in severe criminal penalties. Allegations of sexual assault require a strong defense to protect your reputation and professional standing.

Aggravated Sexual Assault

This includes sexual assault with a weapon, causing serious injury, or involving particularly vulnerable victims such as children or disabled adults. Because these charges carry enhanced penalties, immediate legal intervention is critical.

Indecency With A Child

This charge involves sexual contact or exposure with a person under 17 years old, regardless of the child’s consent. Even a single incident can result in serious consequences, including mandatory sex offender registration.

Prostitution

These charges involve the exchange of sexual services for money or other value. Solicitation, advertising or participation in these acts can result in criminal prosecution.

Possession Or Distribution Of Child Pornography

Possessing, creating or distributing explicit material featuring minors is a serious felony. Digital forensics and chain of custody issues can help defend against these allegations.

Online Solicitation Of A Minor

Engaging in sexually explicit conversations with minors online or via text falls under online solicitation charges. Evidence is often digital. Improper collection of communications can be challenged in court.

Sexual Abuse

This encompasses ongoing sexual conduct involving a child or an adult with disabilities. Sexual abuse cases can involve patterns of behavior that can be complex to prove or defend, making experienced representation from a Houston sex crimes attorney essential.

Your case may also be charged at the federal level, depending on what the crime entailed. Crimes involving child pornography typically go to the federal courts.

Each of these offenses carries specific legal repercussions that can include a lengthy term of imprisonment, significant fines, probation and mandatory sex offender registration. If you’ve been charged or are under investigation for any of these crimes, you need a sexual assault defense lawyer who is not only willing to defend you but also has experience defending these high-stakes cases. I believe in a fair legal process and will work tirelessly as your criminal defense attorney to protect your rights.

I also handle cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct on the part of a student, teacher or faculty at private or public schools. These allegations can lead to a separate set of proceedings under Title IX. I can fiercely defend you to protect your reputation, career, education and future.

Statutory Rape In Texas

Statutory rape is the most common rape charge because many times, the individuals involved probably did not know, nor need to know, it was statutory rape based on the age of consent in Texas. The mere sexual act is enough if it is proven beyond a reasonable doubt that the act occurred and the actors were in a prohibited class.

Texas Age Of Consent

Statutory rape is a sexual relationship between two individuals that is prohibited. The legal age for consent in Texas is 17 years of age. However, if the age difference between the actors is within three years of one another, the statutory rape law does not apply. It is not always the obvious age prohibition. A relationship with a student at a primary or secondary school is prohibited regardless of their age. 

What Happens After A Sexual Assault Conviction?

If a conviction for a sexual assault occurs, you will face sentencing by the judge or jury. For many sexual assault cases, there is no option to serve probation or house arrest. You could be facing life in prison or lengthy prison sentences.

For the majority of sexual assault crimes, you will be on the Texas sex offender registry. Often, this is for life.

If your conviction involves serious sentences, you will be taken back to jail and then sent to prison. This is an extremely difficult time that can make you feel hopeless.

In prison, you will be able to speak with your family and attorney. I will keep you abreast of changes to your case and new strategies we can utilize, including potential appeals and petitions for post-conviction relief. I can also work to reduce harsh sentences and time served for good behavior or make deals to stop similar crimes. With a knowledgeable lawyer at your side, you can be confident you will not be taken advantage of during the legal process.

Help For Individuals On The Sex Offender Registry

• Unlawful restraint of a minor
• The kidnapping of anyone under 17 years old
• Trafficking people
• Sexual abuse of a minor
• Indecent exposure or indecency with a child
• Sexual assault or sexual assault with a weapon
• Prohibited sexual conduct
• Online solicitation of minors
• Prostitution
• Possession or creation of child pornography
• Burglary with sexual intent

Defense Strategies For Sex Crimes

• False accusations: Allegations sometimes arise from custody disputes, revenge or misunderstandings.
• Consent issue: Clarifying the nature of consent can change case outcomes, particularly in “he said/she said” scenarios.
• Witness credibility challenges: Inconsistencies or bias in testimony can undermine the prosecution’s case.
• Illegal searches and seizures: Evidence obtained without a warrant or probable cause may be inadmissible.
• Constitutional violations: Miranda rights violations or improper law enforcement procedures can impact the case.
• Chain of custody issues: Errors in handling physical or digital evidence can weaken the prosecution.
• Forensic evidence challenges: Questioning the reliability of DNA or digital evidence is essential.
• Alibi defense: Demonstrating your presence elsewhere can be a decisive factor.

As an experienced Houston sex crimes attorney, I can evaluate all potential defenses to build the most robust strategy possible. Call me today and let us get started on building a strategic defense.

Beyond Conviction: Long-Term Consequences

Sex crime convictions carry lasting effects beyond imprisonment. Consequences include:

• Registry: Lifetime or tiered registration with limited deregistration possibilities.
• Professional impact: Loss of licenses for careers like doctors, lawyers, teachers and other professions.
• Employment limitations: Difficulty finding work due to a criminal history.
• Housing restrictions: Certain residences or areas may be off-limits.
• International travel restrictions: Convictions can prevent visas or entry to other countries.
• Social stigma: Public perception may affect personal and professional life.
• Family impact: Relationships, custody and parental rights can be challenged.

I am a sexual assault lawyer in Houston who is experienced in high-stakes cases. Through discreet representation, I can help mitigate these consequences and advise on future planning.

Federal Versus State Charges

Sex crimes can be prosecuted at the state or federal level, depending on circumstances. Federal charges arise when:

• The alleged crime crosses state lines and becomes a felony
• The internet or email is used to target minors.
• The crime occurs on federal property or involves federal employees.

I offer confidential consultations for clients who want to protect their professional standing and minimize public exposure. Our Spanish-speaking staff is available to assist clients and families who communicate in Spanish.

Why Choose The Law Offices of Charles T. Ganz For Sex Crime Defense

Our firm handles state and federal sex crime cases with a professional, empathetic approach. We also represent students in Title IX proceedings, helping ensure dual proceedings are coordinated effectively. With years of experience, we focus on:

• Discreet representation designed to protect professional standing
• Confidential consultations where sensitive matters can be discussed privately
• Direct attorney attention due to a limited caseload
• Experience with high-stakes criminal cases
• Spanish-speaking staff available to assist clients and families

For anyone facing sexual assault charges in Texas, timely legal representation from a sex crime attorney in Houston is critical. Contact me today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can support you.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sex Crimes

Below are answers to some questions about sex crime charges and allegations. For more personalized questions and answers, please reach out to me for a confidential consultation.

Sexual Assault Attorney Who Can Ensure That You Are Treated Fairly Under The Law

Whether or not you have committed a sex crime, you deserve fair treatment by the criminal justice system. Our laws, freedoms and protections are in place to protect us from a corrupt system and overzealous prosecutors.

As a lawyer, it is my job to fight for an outcome that is fair and just and to defend you before a judge and jury if it comes to that. As one of Houston’s most well-respected criminal defense lawyers, I know how to prepare a skilled defense against rape charges and other sex offense charges. I will ensure that you are not taken advantage of during the legal process.

Get in touch with me to discuss your case or explore your options. Call 713-364-0953 to get started or reach out online for a confidential consultation.