Criminal Defense

Is Groping Illegal in Texas?

Published: Dec 05, 2020 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes, Sex Crimes Involving Children

Being accused of touching someone inappropriately is always serious. In the past, groping was only punishable with a small fine, but in 2019 Texas raised the severity of groping, defining it as “indecent sexual assault,” and making it a class A misdemeanor. Don’t take an allegation that you groped someone lightly or try to handle things on your own. You could face a year in jail and a $4,000 fine. Charged with groping or any sexual assault? Call The Law Offices of Ned Barnett at (713) 222-6767, or reach out…

How to Act When Out on Bail for a Sex Crime

Published: Nov 27, 2020 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

If you were arrested for a Houston sex crime and later released on bail, be very careful about what you do. A mistake can result in your bail getting revoked. This means dealing with your charges from behind bars and seriously damaging your case. Defending against sex crime accusations is crucial, but you also need to think about securing your release from custody and how to act while out on bail. If you need assistance posting bail after you or a loved one was charged with a Houston- area sex…

Can Sexual Harassment Be a Crime?

Published: Nov 12, 2020 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

Everyone knows that sexual harassment is wrong. But at what point does it become a crime? The answer depends on state law. In Texas, sexual harassment may be charged as harassment, assault, or in serious cases – sexual assault. These charges carry heavy fines, possible imprisonment, and lifelong damage to your reputation. A judge might also issue a restraining order against you, even before you’ve been convicted of any wrongdoing. If you’re worried that sexual harassment allegations are about to turn criminal, you need help from an experienced Houston sex…

Can You Be Convicted of a Sex Crime if You Didn’t Know Their Age?

Published: Sep 11, 2020 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

People lie about their age all the time. For older adults, it may be satisfying to pass as younger. For adolescents, the opposite might be true. Some teenagers naturally look older than their age, while others dress and groom themselves to look over 18. However, what may be cool or exciting to a young person can be devastating to you. If you become romantically or sexually involved with someone much younger than you thought, you could find yourself facing criminal charges. If you are questioned or arrested for a sex…

Can You Get Fired for Being Accused of a Sex Crime?

Published: Sep 04, 2020 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

Being accused of a sex crimes can jeopardize every aspect of your life. Even if it doesn’t lead to a conviction, sex offense allegations can damage your reputation, your relationships, and your livelihood. Many people ask us, “can I be fired if I’m accused of a sex crime?” But no single answer applies. What always holds true is that you can decrease the likelihood of losing your job if you fight the case and retain an experienced Houston sex crimes attorney as soon as you learn of the allegations. By…