Sex Crimes Involving Children

Overcoming Accusations: How to Get Texas Statutory Rape Charges Dropped?

Published: Jun 02, 2023 in Sex Crimes, Sex Crimes Involving Children

Facing statutory rape charges in Texas can be a harrowing experience. With the potential for jail looming and a forever tarnished reputation attached, it is essential to understand what’s possible and which strategies can result in a favorable resolution, like having the charges dropped. To help their clients and others protect themselves from damaging allegations, the Houston child sex crime attorneys at The Law Offices of Ned Barnett have provided insight into building a statutory rape defense and the tactics to increase the chances of having charges dismissed. This can…

The Average Sentences for Texas Sex Crimes & How to Avoid Conviction

Published: May 19, 2023 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes, Sex Crimes Involving Children

Even the whisper of a sexual assault accusation can have devastating effects. But when formal Texas sex crime charges are filed, things get dire. Sex crimes are some of the most harshly punished offenses in Texas. While the average sentence for a sex crime conviction depends on factors like its severity, the offender’s criminal history, and other aggravating or mitigating circumstances, they carry stark consequences that can affect your life forever. With the possibility of prison and sex offender registration looming, it’s vital to contact an experienced Houston sex crimes…

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Porn Charges

Published: Mar 03, 2023 in Sex Crimes, Sex Crimes Involving Children

Child pornography is illegal under Texas and federal law. However, knowing it is unlawful does not automatically prevent a charge. Nor does it clarify when and why charges were filed or what penalties you could face. Considering how intimidating child pornography accusations are, it is best to know how child porn charges arise. Know what to do if you or a loved one are wrongly charged with possessing or distributing child pornography. Common Questions About Child Pornography As a former U.S. federal prosecutor with decades of criminal defense experience, particularly…

The Difference Between Viewing and Possessing Child Porn

Published: Oct 24, 2022 in Child Sex Crimes, Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes, Sex Crimes Involving Children

Did you know there is a difference between viewing and possessing child porn in Texas? Generally speaking, possessing child pornography is always illegal, whereas simply viewing it is not necessarily illegal. What’s more important, however, is the issue of whether your alleged viewing or possessing was knowing and intentional. For example, unknowingly possessing child pornography is not illegal. If you borrow a friend’s computer and unbeknownst to you it contains child porn, you have not engaged in a crime. If you or a loved one are facing child pornography charges…

Mandatory Reporting of Child Sex Abuse in Texas

Published: Aug 25, 2021 in Sex Crimes Involving Children

The laws in place for mandatory reporting in Texas are clear. Mandated reporters such as teachers, coaches, and other professionals, are obligated to report suspected child abuse or neglect. This includes suspicions of child sexual abuse as well. Once a mandated reporter makes a report, what happens next? In many cases, it leads to an intensive investigation and sometimes criminal charges. Unfortunately, all too often, there is a rush to judgment with lives and reputations in ruins. Who Is a Mandated Reporter Under Texas Law? Under Texas Family Code, Section…