In Houston, if you are charged with a sex crime, you might be facing one of the most significant, life-changing challenges of your life. Getting arrested for a sex crime can leave behind a long-lasting effect on you and your family.
A conviction can change your life for the worse. From job loss to time in prison, experiencing undue stress, and more, the stakes can be a lot higher. That is why it is essential to have the best Houston sex crimes lawyer fight for you during such difficult times.
This is what you need to do if you or a loved one is charged with a sex crime in Houston.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Most people tend to talk to the police, thinking that the process may help them in one way or another. However, there are high chances of your words getting twisted around and used against you during the hearing.So, you must invoke the right to remain silent until you consult an experienced sex crimes lawyer.
Get In Touch With a Houston Sex Crimes Lawyer
If you are charged with a sex crime in Houston, you have all the right to have a local attorney represent you. A professional Houston sex crimes lawyer will guide you in cooperating with the officials.As a local lawyer will have a good idea about the Houston and Texas judicial system, he/she will know how to protect your rights. The lawyer you hire will help you understand the case better and explain what the stakes are.
As soon as you are informed about the charges, work fast and reach out to an experienced sex crime lawyer to help you with the case.
Gather Details and Evidence
According to the Texas Penal Code, child sex offences, possession or distribution of child pornography, indecent exposure, prostitution, rape, and sexual assault are some of the acts which are considered sex crimes in the state of Texas and Houston.Most of the sex offences in Houston and Texas are considered felonies under the state law, and the convicted may face penalties of the first degree, second degree, fines, and prison time.
Only an experienced sex crime lawyer will be able to build a strong defense against the charge. In order to adequately defend you, the lawyer may require certain records and evidence from you. So, make sure to preserve any documents related to the incident, like videos, diaries, communications, and calendars.
Refrain From Contacting Witnesses and Victims
Any contact with the victim or witness will likely be recorded and reported to law enforcement. There are high chances of your contact getting misinterpreted negatively.If you reach out to a victim or a family member out of empathy or concern, you may be provoked to an apology or admission without consent. The prosecutor may even use this exchange against you in the courtroom.
Even a tiny slip-up during the process could land you in prison. So, don't interact with the opposing party for any reason without discussing your intentions with your lawyer.
If you are charged with a sexual offense in Houston, you will only have a limited time in hand to defend yourself. Make use of this time to reach out to a Houston sex crimes lawyer to discuss your case.
