Sex Crimes

The Legal Challenges of LGBTQ+ Members Facing Texas Sex Crime Accusations

Published: Dec 15, 2023 in Sex Crimes

Houston, TX, is a large, diverse city with a mosaic of identities and experiences. And while the legal system touts equal treatment for everyone, the reality is not so inclusive. One example of this disparity is how the LGBTQ+ community must navigate a complex system that wasn’t built with them in mind, particularly when facing accusations of sex crimes. As a criminal defense attorney in Harris County and former prosecutor with considerable experience in sex crime cases, attorney Ned Barnett has witnessed firsthand how societal biases, legal intricacies, and cultural…

10 Questions about Consent in Texas for the Accused

Published: Sep 15, 2023 in Sex Crimes

Sex crimes, particularly those involving questions of consent, are some of the most controversial and sensitive in Texas’ justice system. The implications of such accusations can be life-changing. Understanding the nuances of consent is crucial for anyone facing charges like sexual assault. Here’s a deeper dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about consent in Texas. 10 Frequently Asked Questions about Consent in Texas 1. What is Consent? Texas law defines consent as a voluntary, clear, and ongoing agreement to participate in a specific sexual activity. This means…

Sexual Assault on Texas’ College Campuses

Published: Aug 30, 2023 in Sex Crimes

Sexual assault on college campuses in Texas and nationwide is an undeniable concern. It not only traumatizes victims but also impacts the accused and the community. One in 5 women and one in 16 men are sexually assaulted in college. But reporting remains low. More than 90% of sexual assault victims on college campuses do not report it. These alarming statistics and the lasting repercussions underscore the need for comprehensive solutions to sexual violence in college communities nationwide. Sexual Assault on College Campuses It’s amid this bleak backdrop that we…

Setting the Record Straight: How to Defend Against Sex Crime Charges & What Not to Do

Published: Aug 20, 2023 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

Navigating sex crime allegations is delicate, legally and otherwise. These are incredibly sensitive situations for anyone embroiled in such accusations. Missteps can result in unjust convictions, tremendous stigma, and devastating penalties. Most people accused of sex crimes think all they must do is cooperate, and misunderstandings will give way to reason. But law enforcement is quick to file sex crime charges. Prosecutors will aggressively seek a conviction, and much emphasis gets placed on what’s best for the alleged victim. The accused essentially must look out for themselves – along with…

Arrested after Swiping Right? Sex Crime Charges in the Age of Dating Apps

Published: Jul 31, 2023 in Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes

Online dating has never been more prevalent, but what happens if meeting IRL becomes a ” they-said, they-said” situation? Or worse, what if you’re accused of something that didn’t happen, or you thought was consensual? A swipe to the right on apps like Tinder, Bumble, or Hinge holds the promise of meaningful connections, but these platforms also introduce a new challenge – a rise in sex crime allegations. Dating apps facilitate easy connections but lend themselves to misrepresentation, confusion around consent, and greater potential for unjust sex crime charges. Sex…