Call for a FREE consultation at (713) 222-6767

Texas Sex Crime Conviction Penalties

A conviction for a sex crime in Texas doesn’t just mean prison time—it can lead to lifetime sex offender registration, destroyed career prospects, loss of your rights, and permanent damage to your reputation. Whether you’re facing allegations of sexual assault, indecency with a child, or online solicitation, the legal penalties and collateral consequences are severe and far-reaching. Don’t face this alone.

The best way to protect your future is to take action early. Contact experienced Houston sex crimes attorney Ned Barnett today for a free, confidential consultation at (713) 222-6767

The Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction in Houston, TX

Being charged with a sex crime in Texas can disrupt every part of your life—from your freedom and finances to your family and future. Although everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty, individuals accused of sex crimes often face judgment long before their day in court. This is why you need a good local sex crime attorney by your side, who can ensure that your rights are respected and that you receive a fair trial.

No matter how helpless you may feel, Houston sex crimes attorney Ned Barnett will stand by you and fight for your freedom and reputation.

The consequences of a conviction for Texas sex crimes are severe and far-reaching. Protect yourself by understanding what’s at stake and taking swift legal action.

Legal Penalties of a Conviction

Most sex crimes in Texas are felonies. A conviction may lead to:

  • Fines up to $10,000
  • State jail or prison terms ranging from 2 years to life
  • Mandatory registration as a sex offender

Depending on the offense, registration may last for 10 years or for the rest of your life. Failure to comply can trigger additional felony charges and result in driver’s license suspension.

Although there is a process for sex offender deregistration, it’s complex and rarely successful. The best way to avoid these long-term burdens is to fight the charges aggressively.

Collateral Consequences That Impact Life After Conviction

Loss of Employment & Professional Licensing

Most employers conduct background checks, and a sex offense conviction is one of the most damaging marks you can carry. Beyond stigma, certain professions may become legally off-limits. Under Texas Occupations Code § 53.021, licensing agencies can revoke or deny professional licenses to anyone convicted of crimes related to their field. Since many sex crimes fall under “moral turpitude,” they create a legal basis for denying employment or credentials.

Loss of Gun Rights, Voting & Civic Participation

Under Texas Penal Code § 46.04 and federal statute 18 USC § 922, convicted felons lose their right to possess firearms. You will also lose the right to vote, serve on a jury, or run for public office in Texas. These losses can last for years—or permanently, depending on your case.

Barriers to Education & Financial Aid

Felony sex crime convictions may disqualify you from federal and state education grants. Additionally, most colleges have discretionary admission policies and may reject applicants with criminal histories, especially for offenses like sexual assault or child-related crimes.

Impact on Child Custody & Family Court Decisions

While a sex crime conviction does not automatically terminate your parental rights, it will weigh heavily in any custody dispute. Courts will evaluate your past, especially in cases involving domestic violence or offenses against minors, when determining the best interests of your children.

Immigration Consequences for Non-Citizens

If you are not a U.S. citizen, a conviction for a sex offense can lead to immediate and permanent immigration consequences. Under federal immigration law, most sex crimes are considered either aggravated felonies or crimes of moral turpitude. This may result in:

  • Deportation after serving your sentence
  • Ineligibility for citizenship or permanent residency
  • Bars on reentry into the United States

Whether you are a lawful permanent resident, refugee, student visa holder, or undocumented immigrant, the stakes are especially high. You should never accept a plea or speak with law enforcement without first consulting an experienced defense attorney who understands both criminal and immigration consequences.

Asset Forfeiture: Police May Seize Your Property

Even before a trial, law enforcement may confiscate any property suspected of being involved in a criminal offense. This practice—known as asset forfeiture—applies to sex crime investigations as well. Your home, phone, or vehicle could be seized if police believe it was used to commit or facilitate offenses such as:

Don’t Let a Sex Crime Conviction Define Your Life

The stigma of a sex crime charge alone can damage your relationships, career, and reputation. But a conviction can alter your life permanently. When your future is at risk, you need more than just a defense—you need a fighter.

Houston sex crimes attorney Ned Barnett has over 30 years of experience, including work as a state and federal prosecutor. He uses that experience to mount aggressive, strategic defenses for clients facing some of the most serious charges under Texas law.

He has been recognized by Super Lawyers and other trusted legal publications for his professionalism, trial skill, and commitment to client success. If you want to face your sex crimes charges head on, call our firm today at (713) 222-6767 for a confidential consultation with a criminal defense lawyer in Houston about your case.