Criminal Defense Sex Offenses
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is one of the most serious criminal charges a person can face in Texas. Under Texas Penal Code § 22.011, sexual assault occurs when a person intentionally or knowingly causes the penetration of another person without that person's consent, or causes sexual contact with a child. A conviction carries severe prison time, mandatory sex offender registration, and lifelong consequences. If you have been accused of sexual assault, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Todd Rash provides aggressive, confidential representation for clients throughout North and Central Texas.
Consent and the Law
Texas law defines lack of consent broadly. It includes situations where the victim was physically forced, threatened, unconscious, mentally incapacitated, or where the actor was in a position of authority. Consent is a central issue in most sexual assault cases, and an experienced attorney can challenge the prosecution's evidence on this element.
Sexual Assault Charges and Classifications
Standard sexual assault is a second-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. Aggravated sexual assault, which involves a weapon, causes serious bodily injury, or involves a victim under 14, is a first-degree felony carrying 5 to 99 years or life in prison.
Sex Offender Registration
A sexual assault conviction in Texas requires lifetime registration as a sex offender under Chapter 62 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Registration imposes severe restrictions on where you can live and work, requires regular check-ins with law enforcement, and is publicly accessible online.
False Accusations
False accusations of sexual assault do occur, often arising from personal disputes, custody battles, or misunderstandings. An experienced defense attorney will investigate the accuser's credibility, examine physical evidence, review communications, and work to expose inconsistencies in the prosecution's case.
Potential Penalties
- › 2nd degree felony: 2–20 years prison, up to $10,000 fine
- › Aggravated sexual assault (1st degree felony): 5–99 years or life in prison
- › Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration
- › Residency and employment restrictions
- › Loss of right to possess firearms
Possible Defenses
- › Consent: the contact was consensual
- › Mistaken identity or false accusation
- › Alibi: you were not present
- › Insufficient or tainted physical evidence
- › Violation of constitutional rights during investigation
Frequently Asked Questions
Facing Sexual Assault charges?
Todd Rash has a proven record defending clients throughout Texas. Call now for a free consultation.
Free Consultation(817) 808-2247Understanding the Cost of a Sex Offense Defense
Sex offense cases are among the most complex and resource-intensive in criminal law. Attorney fees are typically on par with murder and other serious felony charges a reflection of the time, preparation, and expertise required.
An effective defense often requires retaining outside experts: polygraph examiners, licensed psychologists for psychosexual evaluation, private investigators, and information technology professionals. These expert fees are separate from attorney fees and are the responsibility of the client.
Todd Rash will be straightforward with you about anticipated costs from your very first consultation.