Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sex Crimes
At the Law Offices of Charles T. Ganz in Houston, Texas, I understand that being accused of any sexually-related crime can have a life-altering impact on the rest of your life.
These are some answers to our most frequently asked questions about sex crime charges and allegations. For more personalized questions and answers from an experienced lawyer, please reach out for a free, private consultation at 713-364-0953 or through our online email form.
Can I be removed from the sex offender registry?.
Yes. It is possible to have your record expunged or sealed. This will remove you from the registry. However, many sex crimes and their penalties will never allow for removal from the registry. This depends on the circumstances and severity of the crime.
You can learn more about sex offender registration in Texas and what the removal process entails.
What are the penalties for sexual assault?.
If convicted, you are likely facing a second-degree felony. You could be facing two to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Some criminal circumstances can make this a first-degree felony, which can mean five to 99 years in prison.
If a weapon or young victim is involved in the assault, it will be considered aggravated sexual assault. The minimum penalty for this is 25 years in state prison. When you face a sexual assault conviction, the judge will tell you your specific sentences.
What do I do if I am facing rape allegations?.
These allegations are serious. Do not contact the individual or family accusing you and try to “talk it out” or clarify the situation. Say nothing to anyone, and contact an attorney immediately. Do not try to delete computer history, emails, texts, pictures as this can all be recovered and can make you look guilty.
You must stay calm, comply with police officers, remain silent and contact an attorney right away.
What qualifies as sexual abuse?.
Abuse is different from assault. Abuse involves someone intentionally having consensual or non-consensual sexual activity with a minor or incapacitated adult. Crimes like this tend to have a lasting impact on the victim for years. Also, sexual abuse does not need to involve any physical contact. It can include exposing oneself, obscene texts, pornographic images, sex trafficking and other types of activity.
