Frisco, TX Defense Attorneys for Improper Relationships Between Teachers and Students

Skilled Lawyers Defending Educators Charged With Inappropriate Relations With Students in Frisco, Texas

Educators are held to a high standard of conduct in Texas and throughout the United States. Their interactions with students may be monitored by schools, students, parents, or others, and any behavior that may be considered inappropriate may be reported. If a teacher or other school employee is accused of engaging in sexual activity with a student, they may face an investigation that could lead to penalties affecting their life and their career.

An improper relationship between an educator and a student is considered to be a sex crime. Accusations of these offenses can lead to swift and serious consequences, including arrest, termination, loss of teaching credentials, and a potential criminal conviction. Even unproven accusations can damage a person's reputation and career beyond repair. The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm understand the stakes involved in these cases, and we can provide the representation needed to help an educator protect their rights, freedom, and future.

What Constitutes an Improper Educator-Student Relationship in Texas?

The offense of improper relationships between an educator and a student is addressed under Section 21.12 of the Texas Penal Code. An educator may be charged with this offense if they are accused of engaging in sexual contact or sexual intercourse with a student who is enrolled at the school where the employee works or is involved in educational activities in the same school district.

The law applies not only to teachers, but also to other employees, including:

• Coaches
• Counselors
• Substitute teachers
• Administrators
• Contract workers who provide services to schools

The statute also applies regardless of the student's age. Even if the student is 18 or older and is legally capable of consenting to a sexual relationship, the educator may still be charged due to their alleged abuse of a position of authority and trust.

Examples of Situations That May Lead to Criminal Charges

An accusation of an improper relationship may arise in many different contexts, including situations such as:

• A teacher is accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a student from their school.
• A school employee is accused of exchanging sexually suggestive texts, emails, or social media messages with a student.
• A coach has reportedly developed a romantic relationship with a student-athlete.
• An allegation of a sexual relationship or other inappropriate behavior between an educator and student is made by a third party, such as another student, parent, or school administrator, even if there is no physical evidence.

These cases may involve digital evidence, screenshots of text messages, or statements made by students or others. However, evidence may be incomplete, it may be taken out of context, or accusations may be based on false assumptions. The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm work to uncover the full story behind these accusations and challenge any claims against our clients that are not supported by facts.

Potential Penalties for an Improper Educator-Student Relationship Conviction

An educator who is accused of having an improper relationship with a student may be charged with a second-degree felony in Texas. A conviction may result in penalties including a sentence of two to 20 years in prison, as well as a potential fine that may be as high as $10,000. A person's teaching credentials or the licensing required to work as a school administrator may be revoked. Their reputation may be permanently damaged, preventing them from working as an educator in the future.

Defending Against Charges of Improper Teacher/Student Relationships

Because of the sensitive nature of allegations of misconduct involving a student, these cases must be handled carefully. The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm can take immediate steps to investigate the allegations and begin building a defense on behalf of our client. This process often includes:

• Reviewing all communications between the accused and the student, including emails, text messages, and social media messages
• Interviewing witnesses, including school staff and other students who may have relevant information about the educator's actions or patterns of behavior
• Reviewing the procedures followed by school administrators or other officials who performed investigations or took disciplinary actions to determine whether a person's rights may have been violated
• Examining whether the allegations may be based on misunderstandings, misinterpretations, or false statements intended to damage a person's reputation or career

We take a methodical approach in every case, using a structured checklist to ensure that no relevant facts are overlooked. Our goal is not only to defend against the charges in court but to preserve our client's career, reputation, and standing in the community.

Early intervention is key. In some cases, our lawyers may be able to address these matters before charges are filed by contacting law enforcement, prosecutors, or school officials directly, presenting evidence gathered during our investigation, and advocating for the case to be dismissed or the charges to be reduced. If criminal charges are filed, we will prepare thoroughly to defend against a conviction while also exploring options such as pretrial diversion programs or negotiated outcomes that will minimize the potential penalties.

Contact Our Frisco Improper Educator-Student Relationship Defense Lawyers

When a teacher, coach, or school employee has been accused of having an improper relationship with a student, the team at Barbieri Law Firm can provide the legal help needed to address these charges and minimize the effects on a person's life and career. We understand the complexity and sensitivity of these cases, and we work diligently to protect our clients' rights while advocating for the best possible results. Contact our Frisco, TX improper teacher/student relationship attorneys at 972-424-1902 to set up a free consultation.