Granbury Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Meet Our Criminal Defense Attorney

Rob Christian
Board Certified^®

Criminal Defense Lawyer Defending Those Charged with Sex Crimes in Hood County

When a person is charged with a sex crime, the fallout can be devastating. These criminal offenses are punished very harshly, and, depending on the crime, a conviction can result in sex offender registration as well as other penalties. Sex crimes may be misdemeanors or felonies, but both types of charges can have destructive effects on a person's future.

Few employers want to hire an employee with a sex offense conviction, even in cases involving a relatively minor offense. Contacting an experienced Granbury sex crimes attorney is crucial, as your attorney will work hard to improve your situation, build a strong case to defend against the charges, and avoid a conviction whenever possible. The sooner your criminal defense lawyer is working on your behalf, the better.

What Criminal Offenses Fall Under Texas Sex Crimes?

Below are some of the more common sex crimes in the state:

• Prostitution and solicitation may be charged as Class A or B misdemeanors. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the arrest and whether the offense is a second, third, or fourth offense, a person may be charged with a state jail felony or even a third, second, or first-degree felony.
• Sexual assault charges will depend on the circumstances, most notably, the alleged victim's age and whether a person allegedly used force, carried a weapon, or inflicted injuries. This offense could be charged as a first or second-degree felony.
• Revenge porn—sharing sexual photos or videos of a prior partner or spouse with others—may be charged as a state jail felony.
• Public lewdness and indecent exposure are Class A misdemeanors and Class B misdemeanors, respectively.
• First-time charges for child pornography will be a third-degree felony, but with prior convictions for child pornography, the charges can increase to a second or first-degree felony.

When Is Sex Offender Registration Required?

Texas laws surrounding sex offender registration are very far-reaching. Failing to register as required can result in a felony conviction and prison time. Sex offenses in Texas that will trigger registration requirements for the offender include unlawful restraint, burglary, or kidnapping for a sexual purpose; sexual assault; child pornography; sexual assault of a child; indecent exposure; sexual performance of a child; indecent exposure; trafficking; compelling prostitution; and online solicitation of a minor.

The requirement for a sex offender to register may be for 10 years, or it could be for the rest of the person's life. Charges that do not include actual sexual contact with the alleged victim, such as indecent exposure, will typically require registration for 10 years. If an offender is convicted of a more serious crime, such as aggravated sexual assault, registration will most likely be for life.

It is important to note that the 10-year period of sex offender registration begins after a person has completed their sentence in its entirety. A person on the sex offender registry must register with a local police department or sheriff within seven days after moving to a new home. They will be required to report identifying information to law enforcement, including their name, address, phone number, place of employment, and photo.

There are four levels of sex offender registration:

• Level one offenders are considered to pose a low or minimal danger of reoffending.
• Level two offenders may be at a moderate risk of reoffending.
• Level three offenders are considered to be a serious risk and a potential danger to others.
• Civil commitment sex offenders are considered to be "sexually violent predators," and they will typically be required to participate in ongoing sex offender treatment.

Most sex offenders in Texas must report to law enforcement once per year or whenever any significant changes occur, such as a change of residence. Around 25 percent of all sex offenders must report to law enforcement every 90 days. Some may even have to report more often, such as those designated as sexually violent predators, who must report every 30 days.

Contact Our Granbury Sex Crimes Attorneys

If you have been charged with a sex crime, you may be convicted in the forum of public opinion long before your actual trial. Sex crimes come with a social stigma that can linger even when the verdict is not guilty. The best step you can take following sex offense charges is to seek experienced legal representation. A knowledgeable Granbury criminal defense attorney from The Law Offices of Rob Christian can help you through this difficult time in the best way possible. To schedule a free consultation where you can get answers to your questions, contact The Law Offices of Rob Christian at 682-936-4003.