Blog
Failure to Report Child Sexual Abuse in Texas
Failure to report child sexual abuse in Texas is a serious offense with severe consequences Texas law requires all individuals, regardless of their profession or relationship to the child, to report any suspicion of abuse or neglect This mandatory reporting obligation ensures that the safety and well-being of children remain a top priority
Under the Texas Family Code - FAM § 261101, any person who suspects...
Penalties for Being Convicted of a Sex Crime in Texas
Being charged with a sex crime in Texas is a serious matter that can lead to severe and life-altering consequences Convictions carry harsh penalties, including long prison sentences, steep fines, and mandatory sex offender registration Beyond the courtroom, the stigma of these charges can damage personal relationships, professional opportunities, and your overall reputation
Understanding what the penalties...
Can I Be Charged With Online Solicitation if We Never Met?
In Texas, online solicitation of a minor is a serious criminal offense, and it involves using electronic communication to attempt to engage a person under the age of 18 in sexual activities These charges can arise even if no physical contact occurs, which leads many to ask, “Can I be charged with online solicitation if we never met” The short answer is yes—if the communication suggests intent to engage in...
Child Witnesses in Texas Child Sex Abuse Claims
In Texas child sex abuse cases, the testimony of child witnesses can play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of the case Child witnesses in child sex abuse claims often provide critical information that can sway a jury’s decision However, the reliability of their testimony is complex, influenced by various factors such as age, emotional state, and external pressures
While a child's account of events may...
Jessica’s Law in Texas
Jessica's Law in Texas, officially known as HB No 8, was enacted as a comprehensive measure to address the rising concerns around child sexual abuse and to strengthen penalties for offenders
Named after Jessica Lunsford, a young Florida girl whose tragic kidnapping, abuse, and murder led her father to advocate for stricter laws, this legislation has had a profound impact on how sex crimes involving children...
Online Impersonation Laws in Texas
The internet offers users unprecedented freedom and anonymity, enabling them to create profiles and identities easily However, this convenience sometimes leads to misuse, as some people use it to pose as someone else This act—online impersonation—is a crime in Texas with significant legal consequences
Since 2009, online impersonation laws in Texas have addressed the growing concerns surrounding...
Sexual Assault Accusations on College Campuses in Texas
Sexual assault accusations on college campuses in Texas are a severe and sensitive matter Many discussions focus on the victims, highlighting their trauma, mental health struggles, and the impact on their academic and personal lives
However, it’s equally important to consider the profound consequences that accusations—particularly those that may be false—can have on the accused
When a student is...
Improper Photography Laws in Texas
The rapid rise of mobile and video recording technology has made it easier than ever to capture moments, but when used without proper consent, it can lead to severe legal repercussions In Texas, improper photography—whether through hidden cameras, cell phones, or other recording devices—is considered a serious offense when conducted for sexual or exploitative purposes without consent
Improper photography...
CPS Investigations of Sexual Abuse in Texas
When allegations of sexual abuse involving children arise, it typically triggers two distinct types of investigations: civil investigations by Child Protective Services (CPS) and criminal investigations by law enforcement In Texas, CPS investigations of sexual abuse focus on assessing whether a child has been harmed or is at risk of future abuse or neglect
Concurrently, law enforcement conducts a criminal...
Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in Texas
In Texas, individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses are legally required to register with the state's sex offender registry This system mandates that offenders provide local law enforcement with their personal information, including their residence and any changes in address If a registered offender moves or changes jobs, they must promptly update law enforcement to remain in compliance
The primary...