San Antonio Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer

Facing sexual assault allegations can drastically alter a person’s life. These accusations can affect personal relationships, career opportunities, and reputations in the community. The legal consequences of a conviction are also severe, involving significant penalties and potential incarceration. 

The Locke Law Group provides guidance and support to help clients through these difficult allegations. Navigating this complex legal process requires knowledge and diligence. Hiring our team gives clients an advocate who understands the challenges ahead. 

If you’ve been accused of sexual assault in the San Antonio area, call us right away at (210) 361-3113 to schedule your free consultation.

Sexual Assault Charges in Texas

The state takes sexual assault charges seriously. Texas law defines sexual assault as intentionally or knowingly causing another person to engage in a sexual act without consent. 

These cases are based on the concept of consent. The state uses the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident to determine if consent was present. For example, consent cannot be given if the person is physically unable to resist, unconscious, or coerced through force, threats, or manipulation. 

Under Texas law, sexual assault crimes are second-degree felonies, and convictions can carry penalties such as prison time, extensive fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. 

Aggravating factors, such as the age of the victim or the use of violence, can elevate charges to a first-degree felony, leading to harsher consequences. 

Potential Penalties

Penalties for sexual assault in Texas depend on the severity of the offense. A conviction for sexual assault, classified as a second-degree felony, may result in two to twenty years in prison. Offenders might also face fines of up to $10,000. Aggravated sexual assault, a first-degree felony, can lead to a prison sentence ranging from five to ninety-nine years or even life. 

Convicted offenders are often subject to lifelong sex offender registration requirements. This labeling impacts housing, employment, and social interactions. 

Probation or parole is also possible, imposing strict conditions. Such conditions can include mandatory counseling or restricted interactions with certain groups. Texas law allows harsh punishments to reflect the seriousness of these crimes while aiming to protect public safety.

Legal Defenses for Sexual Assault Cases

Defending against sexual assault charges requires a thorough understanding of case specifics. Defense strategies often depend on the available evidence, witness accounts, and procedural factors. Defendants must carefully assess the context of the allegations and build a defense that responds directly to the facts.

Our firm analyzes the evidence to identify inconsistencies or gaps that may weaken the prosecution's case. We can scrutinize police reports, medical records, and digital evidence to uncover inaccuracies or procedural violations. 

A strong defense often includes questioning the credibility of witnesses or challenging unreliable testimony. Our team can examine witness statements to find contradictions or motives that could impact their reliability.

We adapt our legal defenses to the circumstances of each case. For example, allegations based on false accusations require a different approach than those involving consent disputes. We evaluate all available defenses, including mistaken identity, lack of intent, or consensual interactions. Procedural violations, such as mishandled evidence or improper arrests, may also provide grounds for a strong defense.

We work hard to protect the rights of our clients by investigating every aspect of the case. Our approach is thorough and targeted, aiming to provide compelling arguments at every stage of your case.

For a tenacious defense against sexual assault allegations in San Antonia, schedule a free consultation with us online.