Sexual Assault of a Minor Defense in Corpus Christi: Protecting Your Rights, Your Freedom, and Your Future

Few criminal allegations carry the weight and stigma of sexual assault of a minor. An accusation alone can destroy your reputation, end your career, and strain your relationships with family and friends. In Corpus Christi and throughout the Coastal Bend, these cases are investigated aggressively by law enforcement and prosecuted with the full force of the law. The consequences of a conviction are devastating—decades in prison, mandatory sex offender registration for life, loss of employment, housing restrictions, and a lifetime of scrutiny. When your freedom, your reputation, and your future are on the line, you need a defense attorney who understands the gravity of the accusation and will fight to protect your rights at every stage.

At Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we defend individuals throughout Corpus Christi and the Coastal Belt who are accused of sexual assault of a minor. Whether you are facing charges of aggravated sexual assault, indecency with a child, continuous sexual abuse of a young child, or other offenses involving minors, we provide the aggressive, knowledgeable representation you need to protect your rights and your future. With extensive experience in the Nueces County criminal courts and a deep understanding of the unique challenges of cases involving child witnesses, we guide our clients through every stage of the defense process.

Understanding Sexual Assault of a Minor in Texas

Sexual assault of a minor encompasses several distinct offenses under the Texas Penal Code. Each carries severe penalties and mandatory sex offender registration.

Sexual Assault of a Child

Sexual assault of a child occurs when a person intentionally or knowingly causes penetration of the sexual organ, anus, or mouth of a child under 17 years of age. This is a second-degree felony, punishable by two to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child

Aggravated sexual assault of a child occurs when a person commits sexual assault and the child is under 14 years of age. It is a first-degree felony, punishable by five to ninety-nine years or life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. This is one of the most serious offenses in the Texas Penal Code.

Indecency with a Child

Indecency with a child involves engaging in sexual contact with a child under 17, or exposing oneself to a child under 17 with the intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire. Sexual contact includes touching the breast, anus, or genitals of a child, or causing the child to touch those areas. Indecency with a child is a second-degree felony (if contact occurs) or a third-degree felony (if exposure only), with penalties ranging from two to twenty years in prison.

Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Young Child

This offense applies when a person commits two or more acts of sexual abuse against a child under 14 over a period of 30 days or more. It is a first-degree felony, punishable by twenty-five to ninety-nine years or life in prison. There is no parole eligibility until the defendant has served at least 35 years.

Online Solicitation of a Minor

Online solicitation occurs when a person over 17 uses the internet or other electronic means to knowingly communicate with a minor with the intent to commit certain sex offenses. It is a third-degree felony, punishable by two to ten years in prison.

The Unique Challenges of Sexual Assault of a Minor Cases

Sexual assault of a minor cases present unique challenges that require specialized defense strategies:

The Emotional Nature of the Allegations

These cases are highly emotional for everyone involved. Jurors, judges, and even prosecutors may react emotionally to allegations involving children. An effective defense must address these emotional responses while presenting a rational, evidence-based case.

Child Witnesses

Cases involving child victims often rely heavily on the testimony of a child. Children may have difficulty recalling events accurately, may be influenced by suggestive questioning, or may have been coached by adults. Forensic interviews are often conducted, but these interviews can be flawed.

Lack of Physical Evidence

Many sexual assault cases involve little or no physical evidence. The case often comes down to the word of the alleged victim against the word of the accused. This requires careful examination of witness credibility, inconsistencies, and potential motives to lie.

Forensic Interviews

When a child makes an allegation, a forensic interview is typically conducted by a trained professional. These interviews are often recorded and may be used as evidence at trial. The methods used in these interviews can be challenged if they were suggestive or coercive.

Delayed Reporting

Allegations of sexual assault of a minor are often reported months or years after the alleged incident. Delayed reporting raises questions about the reliability of the memory and the possibility of influence by others.

Mandatory Sex Offender Registration

A conviction for sexual assault of a minor requires registration as a sex offender for life. Registration is public information and can affect where you live, where you work, and how you interact with your community. There is no relief from lifetime registration for these offenses.

The Consequences of a Conviction

A conviction for sexual assault of a minor carries consequences that extend far beyond the criminal sentence:

Criminal Penalties

• Prison time: Two to ninety-nine years or life, depending on the offense

• Fine: Up to $10,000

• Probation: In rare cases, probation may be available, but often with strict conditions

Mandatory Sex Offender Registration

All convictions for sexual assault of a minor require lifetime sex offender registration. Failure to register is a separate criminal offense.

Civil Commitment

In some cases, individuals convicted of certain sex offenses may be subject to civil commitment as a sexually violent predator after completing their criminal sentence.

Loss of Employment

A conviction can end careers in education, healthcare, law enforcement, and many other fields. Professional licenses are often revoked.

Housing Restrictions

Sex offender registration often restricts where you can live. Many communities have residency restrictions that prohibit registered sex offenders from living near schools, parks, or daycare centers.

Child Custody

A conviction can result in loss of custody of your children and restrictions on visitation.

Immigration Consequences

For non-citizens, a conviction for sexual assault of a minor almost always results in deportation and permanent inadmissibility to the United States.

Family and Social Consequences

The stigma of a conviction can destroy relationships with family members and friends. Many individuals experience isolation and loss of community support.

Defending Against Sexual Assault of a Minor Charges

A strong defense can mean the difference between a conviction and an acquittal. Common defense strategies include:

Challenging the Allegations

Your attorney may challenge:

• Whether the alleged conduct occurred at all

• Whether the alleged conduct meets the legal definition of the charged offense

• Whether the alleged victim’s account is credible

• Whether there are inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s statements

• Whether there were any witnesses who can corroborate your version of events

False Allegations

Unfortunately, false allegations of sexual assault of a minor are not uncommon. Motives for false allegations may include:

• Divorce or child custody disputes

• Anger or revenge

• Influence by a parent or other adult

• Mental health issues

• Attention-seeking behavior

Your attorney can investigate and present evidence of false allegations, including:

• Inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s statements

• Motives to lie

• Witness testimony contradicting their account

• Evidence of prior false allegations

• Text messages, emails, or social media posts showing the alleged victim’s or accuser’s state of mind

Challenging Forensic Interviews

Forensic interviews are often critical evidence. Your attorney may challenge:

• Whether the interview was conducted properly

• Whether the interviewer used suggestive or leading questions

• Whether the child was coached

• Whether the interview was recorded and preserved

• Whether the interviewer was biased

Mistaken Identity

In some cases, the alleged victim may have identified the wrong person. Your attorney may present evidence that you were not present at the time and place of the alleged offense.

Lack of Evidence

The state must prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney may challenge:

• Whether the evidence is sufficient to prove the offense

• Whether physical evidence (DNA, forensic evidence) is reliable or properly handled

• Whether the investigation was conducted properly

Age Defenses

For offenses involving a minor, your attorney may challenge:

• Whether the alleged victim was actually under the age specified in the statute

• Whether you knew or reasonably should have known the victim’s age

Romeo and Juliet Exception

Texas law provides a “Romeo and Juliet” exception for certain consensual relationships between minors close in age. This exception applies when the victim is between 14 and 17, the actor is no more than three years older, and the relationship was consensual. This can result in reduced charges or avoidance of sex offender registration.

The Investigation and Forensic Interview Process

Understanding the investigation process is critical:

Forensic Interviews

When a child makes an allegation, a forensic interview is typically conducted at a children’s advocacy center. The interview is conducted by a trained professional and is often recorded. The goal of the interview is to gather information in a neutral, non-suggestive manner. Your attorney can review the interview for suggestive questioning, coaching, or other flaws.

Medical Examinations

A medical examination may be conducted. The absence of physical findings does not mean abuse did not occur, but medical evidence can be challenged.

Law Enforcement Investigation

Law enforcement will interview witnesses, collect evidence, and document the case. Your attorney can review the investigation for bias, incomplete work, or improper procedures.

The Sexual Assault of a Minor Case Process

Understanding the process can help you navigate your case:

Step 1: Investigation

Many cases begin with an investigation before any arrest. If you are aware of an investigation, it is critical to contact an attorney before speaking with investigators.

Step 2: Arrest

If law enforcement has probable cause, they will make an arrest. In these cases, bond is often high and conditions may include no contact with the alleged victim and no contact with minors.

Step 3: Grand Jury

Felony sex crimes must be presented to a grand jury, which determines whether there is probable cause to proceed with charges.

Step 4: Discovery

Your attorney obtains discovery from the prosecutor, including:

• Police reports

• Witness statements

• Forensic interview recordings and transcripts

• Medical records

• Forensic evidence (DNA, digital evidence)

Step 5: Pre-Trial Motions

Your attorney may file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence, challenge the sufficiency of the indictment, or exclude prejudicial evidence.

Step 6: Negotiation

Your attorney negotiates with the prosecutor to seek a favorable resolution. In some cases, this may involve negotiating for a lesser charge or exploring whether the Romeo and Juliet exception applies.

Step 7: Trial

If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. You have the right to a jury trial. The state must prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Assault of a Minor

What is the difference between sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault of a child?

Sexual assault of a child (victim under 17) is a second-degree felony. Aggravated sexual assault of a child (victim under 14) is a first-degree felony with higher penalties and a longer minimum sentence.

What is continuous sexual abuse of a young child?

This offense applies when a person commits two or more acts of sexual abuse against a child under 14 over a period of 30 days or more. It is a first-degree felony with a minimum sentence of 25 years and no parole eligibility until 35 years have been served.

Do I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?

Yes. Any conviction for sexual assault of a minor requires lifetime sex offender registration. There is no relief from lifetime registration for these offenses.

What is the Romeo and Juliet law in Texas?

Texas has a “Romeo and Juliet” law that allows individuals close in age to avoid sex offender registration for certain consensual relationships. The law applies when the victim is between 14 and 17, the actor is no more than three years older, and the relationship was consensual.

Can I get probation for sexual assault of a minor?

In some cases, probation may be available, particularly for less serious offenses or when the Romeo and Juliet exception applies. However, probation conditions are often strict and include sex offender treatment, GPS monitoring, and restrictions on contact with minors.

What is a forensic interview?

A forensic interview is a structured interview conducted with an alleged child victim by a trained professional. The interview is often recorded and may be used as evidence. Your attorney may challenge the admissibility of the interview or the methods used.

What should I do if I am accused of sexual assault of a minor?

Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Do not contact the alleged victim or their family. Preserve any evidence that may be relevant. Contact an experienced sex crime defense attorney immediately.

How long do these cases take?

These cases often take longer than other criminal cases due to the complexity of the evidence, the need for forensic analysis, and the emotional nature of the allegations. Cases can take a year or more to resolve.

Can I lose my parental rights?

A conviction for sexual assault of a minor can result in loss of custody of your children and restrictions on visitation. In extreme cases, parental rights may be terminated.

Do I need an attorney for these charges?

Yes. Sexual assault of a minor is among the most serious criminal charges you can face. A conviction can result in decades in prison, lifetime sex offender registration, and permanent damage to your reputation and family. An experienced sex crime defense attorney can help you understand your rights, challenge the evidence, and protect your future.

Why Barton & Associates Is the Right Choice for Your Defense

Sexual assault of a minor charges are among the most serious criminal allegations in Texas. A conviction can result in decades in prison, lifetime sex offender registration, and permanent damage to your reputation, your family, and your future. At Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we have extensive experience defending individuals against these charges in the Nueces County criminal courts.

Our attorneys understand the unique challenges of these cases—the emotional nature of the allegations, the complexities of child witness testimony, the importance of challenging forensic interviews, and the devastating consequences of a conviction. We work closely with our clients to investigate the facts, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to the unique circumstances of each case.

We also understand that a false accusation can destroy an innocent person’s life. Our attorneys approach these cases with dedication, helping our clients navigate the legal system while protecting their rights, their reputation, and their future.

Protect Your Freedom and Your Future Today

If you are accused of sexual assault of a minor, your freedom, your reputation, and your future are on the line. A conviction can result in decades in prison, lifetime sex offender registration, and a lifetime of consequences. Do not wait. The decisions you make now will determine the outcome of your case.

Contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Barton & Associates today. Call us directly at 361-800-6780 to speak with a member of our team. You may also complete the Free Consultation form on our website, and we will reach out to you promptly. Please note that all on-site consultations at our Corpus Christi office are by appointment only, ensuring that we can give your case the focused attention it requires.

Reach out today—let us help you defend against sexual assault of a minor charges and protect your future.

Main Category: Criminal Defense Corpus Christi
Practice Area Category: Sex Crimes
Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law
5110 Wilkinson Dr Suite 210, Corpus Christi, TX 78415
Office: 361-800-6780