Kerrville Sex Crime Lawyer

Prison Time

Sex crimes carry some of the harshest penalties in the Texas legal system. Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, a conviction could result in years or even decades behind bars. Aggravated offenses, such as aggravated sexual assault, can lead to life sentences.

Sex Offender Registration

One of the most devastating aspects of a sex crime conviction is the requirement to register as a sex offender. This registry is public and accessible by employers, neighbors, and landlords. Sex offender registration can restrict where you live, work, and even travel. In many cases, it is a lifetime obligation.

Loss of Employment and Housing Opportunities

Having a sex crime conviction on your record can severely limit your job prospects. Many employers are unwilling to hire individuals with such convictions, especially for positions that involve working with children or vulnerable populations. Additionally, finding housing can become incredibly difficult, as landlords may refuse to rent to individuals listed on the sex offender registry.

Damage to Reputation and Relationships

The stigma associated with being accused or convicted of a sex crime can damage your reputation and personal relationships. You may face social isolation, difficulty maintaining relationships with friends and family, and damage to your standing in the community.

Loss of Parental Rights

In cases where the victim is a minor, a conviction for a sex crime could result in the loss of parental rights or limitations on child visitation. This can be particularly devastating for those with children or those involved in custody disputes.

Legal Defenses to Sex Crimes in Kerrville

Facing sex crime charges is an overwhelming experience, but a skilled Kerrville sex crime lawyer can explore various legal defenses to protect your rights. Every case is unique, and the right defense strategy depends on the specifics of your situation. Some of the most common defenses in sex crime cases include:

• Consent: In cases of sexual assault, one of the most common defenses is that the sexual activity was consensual. Establishing consent can be complex, especially when there is little physical evidence or conflicting testimonies, but it can be a powerful defense when properly demonstrated.
• False Accusation: Unfortunately, false accusations of sex crimes do occur, often out of revenge, jealousy, or misunderstanding. Your attorney can work to expose inconsistencies in the accuser’s story, lack of evidence, or ulterior motives, helping to demonstrate that the accusation is baseless.
• Lack of Evidence: In many sex crime cases, the prosecution’s case relies heavily on witness testimony, which can be unreliable or incomplete. A strong defense may involve challenging the credibility of witnesses or demonstrating that there is insufficient evidence to support a conviction beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Mistaken Identity: In cases involving strangers or online activity, mistaken identity is a possible defense. Your lawyer may present evidence that someone else committed the crime, or that you were wrongfully identified as the perpetrator.
• Entrapment: In cases involving online solicitation or prostitution, entrapment may be a viable defense if law enforcement induced the defendant to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. If entrapment is proven, charges could be dismissed.

Why Choose Cofer & Connelly, PLLC?

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we have extensive experience handling sex crime cases in Kerrville and throughout Texas. Our dedicated legal team understands the sensitivity and complexity of these charges, and we are committed to providing the highest level of defense for our clients. We know how to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and present compelling arguments in court.

Get a proven team fighting for you. Call (830) 590-0589 or contact us online today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If I Am Charged with a Sex Crime in Kerrville, TX?

If you are charged with a sex crime in Kerrville, TX, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights. First and foremost, seek legal counsel from a qualified sex crime attorney who understands the local legal landscape. Refrain from discussing your case with anyone other than your lawyer, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Collect and preserve any evidence that may support your defense, such as correspondence or witnesses that can testify on your behalf. Contacting a lawyer experienced in Kerrville's judicial processes can significantly affect how effectively your defense is structured and presented.

How Are Sex Crimes Different from Other Criminal Offenses?

Sex crimes are often treated with greater stigma and have more severe consequences compared to other criminal offenses. They frequently result in longer prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender, which can have lifelong impacts. Additionally, sex crime cases tend to rely heavily on testimony and involve sensitive personal matters, requiring careful and empathetic legal handling. Because of this, it's vital to choose a defense lawyer who understands the emotional, social, and legal complexities of such charges. Our team is adept at addressing these issues with sensitivity, ensuring our clients feel supported throughout the legal process.

Can a Sex Crime Charge Be Expunged from My Record?

In Texas, expungement of a sex crime charge is possible under specific conditions, such as when an accusation does not lead to a conviction or when charges are dismissed. However, the strict rules governing expungement reflect the state's intent to maintain public safety and transparency. It's vital to work with a knowledgeable attorney who can guide you through the complexities of filing for expungement, addressing legal intricacies, and maximizing your chances of successfully clearing your record. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we offer guidance on whether your circumstances fit the strict expungement criteria under Texas law.