Friendswood Child Sexual Abuse Defense Attorney
Child sexual abuse accusations in Friendswood, Texas carry some of the harshest penalties in Texas law, with consequences extending far beyond potential prison time.
Our experienced Friendswood child sexual abuse defense lawyers understand that facing such accusations threatens everything you’ve built, your career, family relationships, and standing in the community. The social stigma alone can be devastating, often beginning the moment allegations surface rather than after any finding of guilt.
Award-winning attorney Grant Scheiner recognizes that these accusations often arise from custody disputes, false memories, or misunderstandings that spiral into criminal investigations.
At Scheiner Sex Crimes Defense Lawyers Our approach combines aggressive pre-indictment intervention, thorough investigation of accusers’ motives, and strategic challenges to forensic interviews and digital evidence.
When your freedom and future hang in the balance, you need child sexual abuse defense attorneys in Friendswood who understand both the law and the local court systems where your case will be decided.
Understanding Charges and Building a Defense Strategy
Texas prosecutors can file several different charges when they suspect child sexual abuse. Each charge has specific legal requirements, and understanding your exact accusation helps us build the right defense strategy.
Sexual Assault of a Child (Texas Penal Code § 22.011): This charge applies when someone allegedly engages in sexual assault of a child involving sexual contact with a person under 17. The law doesn’t require proof that you knew the child’s age.
Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child (Texas Penal Code § 22.021): Prosecutors elevate the charge to “aggravated” when the alleged victim was under 14, or when they claim weapons, threats, or serious injury were involved.
Indecency with a Child (Texas Penal Code § 21.11): This offense splits into two types: indecency by contact involves alleged sexual touching, while indecency by exposure involves claims of showing intimate body parts to arouse sexual desire.
Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Young Child (Texas Penal Code § 21.02): This charge requires allegations of two or more separate acts of abuse against a child under 14, spanning at least 30 days. Prosecutors don’t need to prove specific dates for each alleged incident.
Child Pornography Offenses (Texas Penal Code § 43.26): These charges cover alleged possession, creation, or distribution of visual material depicting minors in sexual situations.
Online Solicitation of a Minor (Texas Penal Code § 33.021): This law criminalizes using electronic communication to allegedly entice someone under 17 into sexual activity or to meet for sexual purposes.
The specific charge determines your potential penalties and available defenses. We examine every element prosecutors must prove to find weaknesses in their case.
What Penalties and Sex Offender Registration Apply in Texas?
A conviction for child sexual abuse carries devastating consequences that extend far beyond prison time. Texas imposes some of the harshest penalties in the nation for these offenses.
| Charge | Felony Level | Prison Range | Registration |
| Sexual Assault of Child | Second-Degree | 2-20 years | Lifetime |
| Aggravated Sexual Assault | First-Degree | 5-99 years or life | Lifetime |
| Indecency by Contact | Second-Degree | 2-20 years | Lifetime |
| Indecency by Exposure | Third-Degree | 2-10 years | Lifetime |
| Continuous Sexual Abuse | First-Degree | 25 years minimum | Lifetime |
Beyond prison sentences, you face mandatory sex offender registration that becomes public record. Anyone can search your name online and see your conviction, address, and personal details.
The collateral consequences destroy your future:
- Employment barriers. Most employers reject applicants with sex crime convictions
- Housing restrictions. You cannot live near schools, parks, or daycare centers
- Professional licenses. State boards revoke licenses for teachers, healthcare workers, and other professionals
- Family relationships. Courts often terminate parental rights or restrict custody
These penalties make fighting the charges absolutely critical. Our Friendswood child sexual abuse defense lawyers work to avoid conviction entirely or minimize the long-term damage to your life.
What Defenses Apply to Child Sex Abuse Allegations?
False accusations of sex crimes happen more often than people realize, especially during contentious divorces or custody battles. We investigate every angle to expose the truth and protect your innocence.
Romeo and Juliet Defense: Texas provides a close-in-age exception when the alleged victim was at least 14 and you were no more than three years older. This defense can result in complete dismissal of charges.
False Accusations and Ulterior Motives: We examine family dynamics, custody disputes, and personal conflicts that might motivate someone to fabricate allegations. Children sometimes repeat coached stories without understanding the consequences.
Lack of Physical Evidence: Many cases rely entirely on testimony without DNA, medical evidence, or other physical proof. We highlight these gaps to create reasonable doubt about what actually happened.
Contaminated Child Interviews: Investigators often use leading questions with child witnesses in sex abuse cases or interview them multiple times, creating false memories. We scrutinize all interview recordings to find evidence of improper techniques.
Constitutional Violations: Police sometimes conduct illegal searches or fail to read Miranda rights. When your constitutional rights are violated, we file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges entirely.
Mistaken Identity: Allegations sometimes involve poor identification by children who may have been confused about timing, location, or the identity of the accused person.
Early intervention gives our skilled Friendswood sex crime lawyers the best opportunity to investigate these defenses before evidence disappears or witnesses’ memories fade.
How We Challenge Forensics, CAC Interviews, and Digital Evidence
Our defense strategy focuses on exposing flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. We have specialized training in forensic science and interview techniques that helps us spot errors other attorneys miss.
Forensic Evidence Challenges:
We examine all medical reports and DNA testing for procedural errors, contamination, or alternative explanations for findings. Many cases lack any physical evidence despite serious allegations.
Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) Interview Analysis:
CAC facilities conduct recorded interviews with alleged child victims. We analyze these recordings frame by frame, looking for:
- Leading questions that suggest answers to children
- Multiple interviews that create inconsistent stories
- Improper recording that violates legal requirements
- Adult influence before or during interviews
Digital Evidence Examination:
For cases involving online allegations and internet sex crimes, we investigate:
- Computer access logs showing who used devices and when
- Metadata analysis revealing when files were created or modified
- Account security demonstrating unauthorized access by others
- Communication context that prosecutors take out of context
Our federal sex crime defense experience helps us challenge digital evidence in both state and federal courts.
How Friendswood Cases Move Through Harris and Galveston County Courts
Friendswood sits on the border between Harris and Galveston counties, so your case could be filed in either jurisdiction. We practice regularly in both court systems and understand the local procedures.
Typical Case Timeline:
Your case begins with arrest and magistration, where a judge sets bond conditions. The district attorney then has several months to present evidence to a grand jury, which decides whether to issue a formal indictment.
After indictment, we file pre-trial motions challenging evidence and constitutional violations. Most cases resolve through plea negotiations, but we prepare every case for trial.
Harris County Differences:
Harris County handles more cases and often moves faster through the system. The prosecutors tend to be more experienced but also more willing to negotiate reasonable plea agreements.
Galveston County Characteristics:
Galveston County moves more slowly but allows more time for thorough investigation. The smaller caseload means prosecutors can focus more attention on individual cases.
Our Galveston County sex crime attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and court staff in both jurisdictions. This familiarity helps us navigate procedures and negotiate more effectively.
How Pre-Indictment Strategy and Grand Jury Packets Can Help
The period between arrest and formal indictment offers a crucial opportunity to influence the outcome. During this time, we can present a grand jury packet directly to the grand jurors considering your case.
A grand jury packet allows us to present your side of the story before formal charges are filed. This proactive approach can result in no indictment, reduced charges, or a better negotiating position.
Our Grand Jury Packets Include:
- Witness affidavits supporting your character and innocence
- Expert reports challenging the prosecution’s evidence
- Alibi documentation proving you were elsewhere during alleged incidents
- Polygraph results when they support your innocence
- Medical records contradicting prosecution theories
Criminal defense for child abuse allegations requires immediate action. The sooner we begin investigating, the more evidence we can preserve and present to the grand jury.
Working with a Houston child abuse defense lawyer early gives us time to conduct thorough investigations and prepare compelling presentations that can stop prosecution before it starts.
How We Address Bond Conditions, CPS Contact, and No-Contact Orders
Child sexual abuse accusations trigger multiple legal proceedings beyond criminal charges. Child Protective Services (CPS) often begins parallel investigations that can affect your parental rights and family relationships.
Managing Bond Conditions:
Courts often impose restrictive bond conditions including GPS monitoring, internet restrictions, and no-contact orders. We argue for reasonable conditions that allow you to work and maintain family relationships where appropriate.
CPS Investigation Guidance:
CPS investigators have broad authority to interview family members and inspect your home. We advise you on:
- Your rights during CPS interviews and home visits
- Safety plan negotiations that protect your children while preserving your rights
- Service plan compliance required for family reunification
- Court hearings where CPS seeks temporary custody orders
No-Contact Order Modifications:
Initial no-contact orders often prohibit all communication with your children. We petition courts to modify these orders for:
- Supervised visitation with professional monitors
- Therapy sessions that benefit family relationships
- Essential communication about medical or educational needs
We coordinate your criminal defense with family law proceedings to protect both your freedom and your parental rights.
What Steps Should You Take After an Accusation in Friendswood?
Your immediate response to accusations can determine the outcome of your case. Taking the right steps protects your rights, while mistakes can permanently damage your defense.
Immediate Actions to Take:
- Contact our office before speaking to anyone about the allegations
- Document everything you remember about relevant time periods and interactions
- Preserve all potential evidence including text messages, emails, and photographs
- Identify witnesses who can support your version of events
- Avoid discussing the case with family members or friends
Critical Mistakes to Avoid:
- Never contact the accuser or their family members for any reason
- Don’t delete any digital communications or social media posts
- Refuse interviews with police or CPS without your attorney present
- Avoid polygraph tests unless specifically advised by your lawyer
- Don’t discuss the case on social media or with anyone except your attorney
Even innocent explanations can be twisted and used against you. Protect your rights from the beginning by contacting us for immediate legal guidance.
Why Choose Scheiner: Board-Certified Criminal Law, Trial Wins, Discreet Support
When facing life-changing accusations, you need attorneys with proven expertise and a track record of success. Grant Scheiner brings unmatched qualifications to your defense.
Board Certification Excellence:
Grant Scheiner is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. This certification requires extensive experience, peer review, and continuing education that fewer than 10% of Texas attorneys achieve.
Recognized Legal Excellence:
- Texas Super Lawyer recognition every year since 2009
- Top 100 Trial Lawyers designation by the National Trial Lawyers Association
- H-Texas Magazine “Top Lawyer” awards from 2006-2010
- Over 30 years of criminal defense experience
Specialized Training and Knowledge:
Our attorneys have advanced training in forensic science, police procedures, and interview techniques. This specialized knowledge helps us identify errors that other lawyers miss.
Compassionate, Discreet Service:
We understand the emotional trauma of false accusations. Our team provides confidential, non-judgmental support while fighting aggressively for your rights. We also offer Spanish-speaking services for clients who prefer to communicate in their native language.
How We Communicate, What to Expect on Fees, and 24/7 Access
Clear communication and transparent fee structures help reduce stress during this difficult time. We keep you informed at every step while protecting your confidentiality.
Our Communication Approach:
We provide regular updates on case developments and explain complex legal concepts in plain English. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, not just support staff.
Fee Structure and Payment Options:
Criminal defense requires upfront payment since contingency fees aren’t available for criminal cases. We offer flexible payment plans and accept various payment methods to make quality representation accessible.
Around-the-Clock Availability:
Legal emergencies don’t wait for business hours. You can reach us at:
- Main office: (832) 864-5240 during business hours
- After-hours emergencies: Text 713-581-4540
- Spanish speakers: 281-905-2399
We respond quickly to urgent situations and provide guidance when you need it most.
Where We Defend Clients: Friendswood and Greater Houston
Our practice extends throughout the greater Houston metropolitan area, serving clients in both urban and suburban communities. We understand local court systems and have established relationships with prosecutors and judges across the region.
Primary Service Areas:
- Friendswood (Harris and Galveston County portions)
- Houston and surrounding neighborhoods
- Pearland, League City, and Clear Lake
- Galveston, Kemah, and Seabrook
- The Woodlands, Sugar Land, and Katy
- Pasadena, Baytown, and La Porte
We also handle federal cases in the Southern District of Texas when charges involve interstate activity or federal jurisdiction.
Start Your Defense Now
False accusations can destroy reputations, careers, and families even before trial begins. The sooner we begin your defense, the more we can do to protect your future.
Don’t wait for formal charges to seek legal help. Pre-indictment intervention often provides the best opportunity to avoid prosecution entirely.
Contact us immediately for a confidential consultation:
- Call: (832) 864-5240
- After-hours text: 713-581-4540
- Spanish: 281-905-2399
We’re here to protect your rights and fight for your innocence when it matters most.
FAQ: Friendswood Child Sexual Abuse Defense
Can You Represent Me if My Case Is Filed in Galveston or Harris County?
Yes, we regularly practice in both Harris and Galveston County courts and are familiar with the judges, prosecutors, and procedures in each jurisdiction.
Should I Answer Police Questions or Participate in a Pretext Call?
Never speak to law enforcement without your attorney present, including recorded phone calls designed to elicit incriminating statements.
Can No-Contact Orders Be Modified for Supervised Visitation?
We can petition the court to modify no-contact orders to allow supervised visits or essential family communication in appropriate circumstances.
Will You Guide Me Through CPS Investigations and CAC Interviews?
Yes, we provide comprehensive guidance for all CPS interactions and work to ensure your child’s CAC interview follows proper procedures.
Should I Take a Polygraph Examination?
Only consider polygraph testing after consulting with us, and only when we’re confident the results will benefit your defense strategy.
How Long Do These Cases Typically Take to Resolve?
The time it takes to resolve child sexual abuse cases varies widely, and pre-indictment intervention can sometimes lead to faster outcomes.
Do You Provide Spanish-Speaking Services and Confidential Communication?
Sí, hablamos español, and we use secure communication methods to protect your privacy throughout your case.