Frisco, TX Child Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys

Knowledgeable Defense Lawyers for Sex Crimes Involving Minors in Frisco and Throughout Texas

Accusations of sex crimes involving minors are among the most serious charges a person can face in the Texas criminal justice system. Even before a case reaches court, an allegation alone can destroy someone's reputation, career, and family relationships. At Barbieri Law Firm, we understand how devastating these allegations can be. We take an aggressive approach in these matters, working to protect the rights and reputations of our clients. Through early intervention, detailed investigations, and defense strategies developed through decades of experience, we can help clients confront these accusations head-on and work to resolve their cases as effectively as possible.

The Serious Nature of Sex Crimes Involving Minors

Crimes involving allegations of sexual conduct with minors are treated as some of the most severe offenses under Texas law. The state imposes lengthy prison terms, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and other lasting consequences that can follow a person for life. Those accused often face intense social stigma, media exposure, and public judgment long before a case is tried. The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm understand these realities and take every measure to protect clients from unfair treatment while building a strong, fact-based defense.

Each child sex crime charge has unique legal elements, and the potential penalties vary depending on the nature of the allegations and the age of the alleged victim. Understanding these distinctions is critical in forming a defense strategy tailored to the facts of each case.

Sexual Assault of a Minor

Under Section 22.011 of the Texas Penal Code, sexual assault of a minor involves engaging in sexual conduct with a child under 17 years old. In many cases, the law presumes that a minor cannot legally consent to sexual activity. This offense is typically classified as a second-degree felony, carrying penalties of two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Indecency With a Child

Under Section 21.11 of the Texas Penal Code, a person may be charged with indecency with a child if they engage in sexual contact with a minor under the age of 17. Indecency with a child may involve touching or causing a child to touch any part of the body with sexual intent. It may also involve exposing oneself to a child for sexual purposes.

Indecency with a child involving sexual contact is generally classified as a second-degree felony. Accusations of indecency with a child involving exposure of private parts can lead to third-degree felony charges. A conviction for a third-degree felony could lead to a prison sentence ranging from two to 10 years.

Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child

One of the most serious offenses in the Texas Penal Code (Section 21.02) involves multiple acts of sexual abuse. A person may be charged with continuous sexual abuse of a child if they are accused of committing two or more acts of sexual abuse against a child younger than 14 years old during a period of 30 days or more. Acts of sexual abuse may include sexual assault, indecency with a child, aggravated kidnapping with the intent to commit sexual abuse against the victim, or other sex crimes involving child victims. Continuous sexual abuse of a child is a first-degree felony with a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years and a maximum of 99 years or life in prison.

Child Prostitution and Child Pornography

Accusations involving child prostitution and child pornography carry severe penalties and significant collateral consequences. Under Texas law, promoting or participating in the prostitution of a child, even without physical contact, can lead to first-degree felony charges.

The possession, promotion, or distribution of child pornography is also a felony offense. The specific penalties may depend on the number of images or files involved and whether a person is accused of producing or distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

Building a Defense Against Child Sex Crime Accusations

At Barbieri Law Firm, we perform detailed evaluations of our clients' cases using a structured, point-by-point process to uncover all relevant facts and the potential opportunities for defense. We work closely with our clients to gather documents, review evidence, and examine law enforcement procedures.

Our attorneys understand the unique challenges that may be involved in cases where a person has been accused of a sex crime involving a minor. False accusations, mistaken identity, suggestive questioning of minors, or improper forensic procedures can all lead to wrongful arrests and criminal charges. We work with investigators, digital analysts, and forensic experts when necessary to challenge unreliable evidence and reveal weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

Clients can expect consistent communication and honest guidance at all times. We take a no-nonsense approach to defending against serious criminal allegations, preparing each case as if it will go to trial while pursuing opportunities for resolution when appropriate.

The Importance of Early Legal Intervention

The earlier our attorneys become involved in a child sex crime investigation, the better the chances of protecting a client's rights. In some cases, proactive defense efforts can prevent charges from being filed, or they can help to shape how police officers and prosecutors may handle a case. Our team can take steps such as:

• Conducting independent investigations to collect evidence
• Interviewing witnesses and reviewing law enforcement reports for inconsistencies
• Preserving electronic data, including messages, emails, and online records
• Negotiating with prosecutors or investigators to clarify misunderstandings and present the defense's perspective before formal charges are filed

Protecting Our Clients' Futures

We have helped numerous clients defend against serious criminal charges, including cases involving allegations of sex crimes against children. In one case, our client, a school teacher, faced serious assault allegations that carried the potential of multiple life sentences and sex offender registration. The investigation that had been performed by law enforcement showed signs of bias, complicating the case.

During our comprehensive defense, our attorney investigated police conduct, reviewed the timelines and family dynamics involved in the case, analyzed the statements made by the alleged victims, conducted social media research, administered polygraph tests, and negotiated with the prosecutor. We were able to negotiate an agreement in which our client pled guilty to the lesser charge of injury to a child and received five years of deferred adjudication. This outcome allowed our client to avoid life sentences and sex offender registration.

Contact Our Frisco, TX Child Sex Crimes Lawyers

Accusations of sex crimes involving minors will place a person's future on the line. The lawyers at Barbieri Law Firm understand the gravity of these cases and the importance of taking immediate action to develop a strategic defense. To learn how we can help defend against these charges, contact our Frisco child sex crime attorneys at 972-424-1902 and set up a free, confidential consultation.