Criminal Defense

What’s the Difference Between Sexual Assault and Harassment?

Published: May 18, 2018 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

The difference between sexual assault and harassment may not always be clear. Both actions are types of sexual misconduct, and both are illegal. The primary difference between the two is that sexual harassment is a civil matter, with claims generally arising out of employment-related disputes. Sexual assault, on the other hand, is a criminal offense. If charged, you should immediately seek the assistance of a Houston sexual assault lawyer. If you’re facing charges of sexual assault, contact The Law Offices of Ned Barnett today at (713) 222-6767 to schedule a…

Can Defense Lawyers Contact a Sex Crime Victim?

Published: Feb 22, 2018 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

In criminal cases, victims are essentially witnesses. The state presses charges on behalf of victims, usually using their testimony as evidence of a crime. Despite their practical role, crime victims also have rights throughout the criminal justice process. Sex crime victims deservedly get special treatment because of the traumatic nature of their experiences. Nonetheless, there is no law prohibiting your lawyer from contacting a sex crime victim. In fact, a lawyer or investigator working for the defense should attempt to independently interview the alleged victim and all other material witnesses….

What is Deferred Adjudication?

Published: Oct 24, 2017 in Criminal Defense

When you are facing criminal charges in Texas, it is important to know that you have a variety of legal options. One option is to negotiate a plea bargain, agreeing to plead guilty in exchange for an acceptable punishment. This might include avoiding jail time in exchange for community supervision, also known as probation. A second option is to move forward with a trial and leave the final decision in the hands of the judge or jury. An alternative to both of these options is known as deferred adjudication in…

New Law Targets Teachers Who Fail to Report Inappropriate Relationships with Students

Published: Oct 10, 2017 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

The number of inappropriate sexual relationships between students and teachers has increased within Texas in recent years. In 2016, the Texas Education Agency opened 222 investigations into these inappropriate relationships. Frustrated with battling this form of educator misconduct, Texas legislators decided to take a decisive step. Senate Bill 7, which was signed into law in May of 2017, states that educators who fail to speak up about any inappropriate relationship they are aware of are subject to criminal charges.. Teachers, principals, superintendents, and other educational professionals who are accused of…

When Is Rape a Federal Crime?

Published: Aug 18, 2017 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

Rape, also called sexual assault, is a heinous crime. It can severely harm the victims physically and psychologically, and often leads to life-long effects. Perpetrators of this violent crime face harsh consequences and should be brought to justice. Unfortunately, rape accusations are often inappropriately leveled at innocent individuals. Some men and women use rape allegations as a means of revenge. Others come forward with these claims after a misunderstanding or due to regret. In some situations, allegations can be proven false before prosecutors ask a grand jury for an indictment….