Austin Sexual Assault Attorneys
Defending Against Allegations of Sexual Assault in Travis County
A sexual assault allegation can ruin your reputation and strain relationships. On top of that, if you are convicted, you could be sentenced to years in prison, be subject to steep fines, and be required to register as a sex offender. With your future and freedom on the line, it’s crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side to fight your charges and protect your rights.
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, our Austin sexual assault lawyers have years of experience handling complex sex crime cases and are practiced at developing effective defenses on behalf of individuals facing sexual assault accusations. We know that this can be a stressful and frightening experience, which is why we take the time to answer your questions, listen to your side of the story, and inform you of the potential outcomes. Our team will fight hard to minimize the effects of a conviction on your life.
Understanding the legal proceedings in a sexual assault case can be daunting. At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we ensure that our clients are never left in the dark. From explaining court procedures to discussing potential defense strategies, we prioritize keeping you informed. Moreover, we know the importance of confidentiality and treat all cases with the utmost discretion, ensuring your privacy is always protected. By working collaboratively, we tailor our defense strategies to align with your unique situation, leveraging every resource to seek a favorable outcome.
Schedule a free, confidential consultation today by calling (512) 359-3743 or by submitting a secure contact form. We are available 24/7 to assist you.
How Is Sexual Assault Defined in Texas?
In Texas, it is illegal for an individual to intentionally and knowingly subject another person to non-consensual and unwanted sexual contact.
Specifically, an individual could be charged with this offense if they:
- Penetrate the anus, sexual organ, or mouth of another person with their own sexual organ; or
- Make someone else’s sexual organ come in contact with or penetrate their own sexual organ, anus, or mouth.
Such acts are prohibited against both adults and children. It is not an accepted defense for the accused to say they didn’t know the age of the person they had sexual contact with.
The implications of being charged with sexual assault are severe. Beyond the immediate legal consequences, there is the societal stigma attached to such accusations. Individuals charged often face challenges in their personal and professional lives, experiencing everything from job loss to social isolation. At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we understand these repercussions and are committed to providing strong legal advocacy to help you navigate these challenges.
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Case Dismissed Juvenile Sex Assault
Our client, a young girl, was accused of sexually assaulting her young female cousin. Our client was a good student and was involved in a number of youth and school activities. She had a bright future ahead of her and she and her parents were understandably terrified that an accusation like this could ruin her life forever.
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Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Two Counts of Sexual Assault of a Child
Our client was arrested after two girls he met online turned out to be underage. He was charged with four counts of sex assault of a child. The State interviewed the girls and obtained incriminating cell phone evidence, as well as evidence of drug use. The DA’s Office aggressively prosecuted this case and sought prison time.
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Charges Dismissed Sexual Assault Investigation
Our client, a promising Texas State student, was wrongfully accused of sexual assault by a classmate and hastily arrested. We demonstrated the consensual nature of their actions and exposed the accuser's ulterior motives. The District Attorney's Office dismissed the case.
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Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Two Counts of Sexual Assault of a Child & Four Counts of Indecency with a Child
Client confessed to two counts of sexual assault of a child and four counts of indecency, with strong physical evidence. Despite aggressive prosecution seeking prison, we obtained dismissal and reduced charges.
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No Charges Filed Sexual Assault Investigation
Our client was a UT student who was accused of sexual assault. He came to our firm extremely scared about his future both with the university and within the criminal justice system. With our firm's help, he was able to show that his accuser was not credible. Smith and Vinson put together a defense that law enforcement recognized as credible evidence of his innocence and not to file charges which changed the course of our client's life.
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Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Solicitation of a Minor
Our client was a legal permanent resident with no criminal history when he was picked up for solicitation of a minor after a sting operation. He faced serious immigration consequences if convicted of a crime of this nature. In addition, the evidence against him was substantial and he was looking at prison time.
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Charges Dismissed Sexual Assault
Our client, who met a woman on a dating app alleging sexual assault, faced potential charges carrying up to 20 years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration. Through thorough case review and skilled negotiations by Smith and Vinson, the District Attorney's Office dismissed the case.
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No Charges Filed Sex Assault Investigation
Our client had an affair with a married woman. When her husband found out, she accused him of rape and called the police, prompting an investigation. Our client wisely contacted our office immediately.
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Not Guilty Sexual Assault
NOT GUILTY of sexual assault and two lesser charges. Our client maintained his innocence from the start, and we believed him.
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Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Five Counts of Sexual Assault of a Child & Eight Counts of Indecency with a Child
Our client faced six counts of sexual assault and eight counts of indecency with a child over an alleged relationship with a teen. Despite overwhelming evidence, we secured a dismissal and reduced charges.
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Not Guilty Sexual Abuse
One Count of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Minor; Three Counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Minor; Two Counts of Indecency of a Minor by Contact/Exposure
FAQ's About Sexual Assault Defense
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Being accused of sexual assault can be an overwhelming experience. The first crucial step is to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney. Smith & Vinson can provide immediate guidance, ensuring your rights are protected from the outset. Do not engage in discussions about the accusations with anyone except your lawyer, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Document all relevant details about the encounter and preserve any potential evidence. Avoid contacting the accuser, as this can exacerbate the situation. Instead, focus on building a strong defense case with your attorney, who will work to scrutinize every piece of evidence and construct a strategic defense.
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The legal process in a sexual assault case begins with an investigation, where law enforcement gathers evidence and interviews witnesses. If there’s sufficient evidence, the case may proceed to the arraignment, where charges are formally read. The defense team then enters the picture, conducting its own investigation, gathering evidence, and formulating a defense strategy. Pre-trial motions may be filed to dismiss or suppress evidence. In some cases, a plea bargain may be negotiated. If the case goes to trial, both sides present evidence and arguments before a judge or jury. The verdict is issued upon deliberation, and sentencing follows if a conviction occurs. Throughout this process, having competent legal representation from a firm like Smith & Vinson is vital to ensuring each step is in line with your legal rights and interests.
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Yes, there are several defenses that can be pursued in sexual assault allegations. Common defenses include proving consent was given, challenging the credibility of the accuser, or demonstrating insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Another potential defense could involve questioning the accuracy and legality of the evidence collection process, including any mishandling of evidence. Each case is unique, and the applicable defenses will depend on the specific circumstances. At Smith & Vinson, we dedicate ourselves to exploring every possible defense avenue, meticulously analyzing each detail to weaken the prosecution’s case and uphold our client's innocence.
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Apart from legal repercussions such as imprisonment and fines, a sexual assault conviction impacts an individual’s life profoundly. It often results in mandatory registration as a sex offender, which imposes restrictions on where you can live and work. Social stigma attached to such convictions can lead to isolation, job loss, and strained relationships. Financial stability may be jeopardized due to the difficulty of securing employment. Furthermore, emotional and mental health effects, such as anxiety and depression, are common. At Smith & Vinson, we understand these burdens and strive to provide support and solutions that extend beyond legal counsel, aiming to help clients rebuild their lives post-trial.
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In Texas, the possibility of expungement for a sexual assault conviction is limited. Generally, expungement is not available for convictions but may be possible in cases where charges were dismissed or the accused was acquitted. However, there are specific legal criteria and processes involved, often requiring a comprehensive legal evaluation. Smith & Vinson offers guidance on expungement opportunities, helping determine eligibility and assisting with the filing process. While challenging, it’s crucial to explore every legal recourse available to mitigate the long-term repercussions of a sexual assault charge on your record.
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“From the first call to the last, they stayed in communication with me and let me know every step of the way. The attorneys at this office and the support staff got my case dismissed with no problems. If you find yourself in a situation, I highly recommend calling this firm.!”- Lyndsey O.
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“The entire staff was incredibly helpful, responsive, and made me feel supported every step of the way. I’m truly grateful for their expertise and care, they made a stressful situation so much easier to navigate.”- Cielo J. R.
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“Very professional and efficient throughout my entire case. They took my situation seriously, explained every step, and made sure I felt supported. You can tell they’ve handled serious cases in Travis County before.”- Destiny E.
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“They didn’t waste time, explained everything clearly, and were super prepared. If you need a criminal defense lawyer in Austin, this is a firm you can trust!”- Keira C.
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“From our very first consultation, Charlie took the time to truly understand my situation, explain my options clearly, and guide me every step of the way. I highly recommend him and his staff.”- Didi C.
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“I’ve worked with a few law offices over the years, but Smith and Vinson made the biggest impression. From the first time I heard and met with them, they were professional, kind, and genuinely attentive.”- Thomas A.
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“Brad really takes the time to get to know your situation. He was sharp, respectful, and didn’t sugarcoat anything.”- Kayla S.
How Our Austin Sexual Assault Lawyers Can Help
The consequences of a sexual assault conviction could follow you around long after you have served your time and paid your fines. You might have difficulty finding housing, getting a job, or obtaining a loan. Additionally, because of the sex offender registry requirement, you might be limited in where you can go and whom you can contact.
Our Austin sexual assault attorneys at Smith & Vinson Law Firm are prepared to review the prosecutor’s evidence to identify flaws and weaknesses. We can seek to get the case dismissed or charges dropped, if appropriate, or work for reduced or alternative sentencing.
Our dedicated legal team provides personalized support by carefully listening to our clients' stories and concerns. This collaboration allows us to craft a defense that considers every detail and possible angle. We maintain close contact throughout the legal process to ensure our clients feel supported and informed. Utilizing our vast network of resources, including experienced investigators and expert witnesses, we leave no stone unturned in building a comprehensive defense. Our goal is to lessen the severity of any possible outcomes, aiming always for a dismissal or the least severe repercussions possible.
To discuss your situation during a free consultation, call our firm at (512) 359-3743 or contact us online using our secure form.
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