Sexual Abuse Attorneys in Austin
Defending Your Rights in the Face of Serious Charges
The term “sexual abuse” is used to refer to a broad range of criminal acts under Texas State law. These include offenses such as rape/sexual assault, statutory rape, and continuous sexual abuse of a young child or disabled individual, among others. If you have been accused of sexual abuse, you face harsh penalties, ranging from a lengthy jail or prison sentence, thousands of dollars in fines, a permanent criminal record, and irreversible damage to your reputation.
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we aggressively defend those accused of all types of sex crimes, including various forms of sexual abuse. We understand just what’s at stake—and we know how to protect your rights as we help you navigate the criminal justice system, seeking the best possible outcome on your behalf.
Facing allegations of sexual abuse in Travis County, TX? Reach out to our Austin sexual abuse attorneys for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights and options. Call (512) 359-3743 or reach us online.
Understanding Sexual Abuse in Texas
In Texas, sexual abuse refers to a variety of criminal offenses. Colloquially, it is often used interchangeably with “sexual assault” to refer to rape and similar crimes. However, sexual abuse takes many forms and is not exclusive to acts of forced penetration.
Some examples of sexual abuse include:
- Sexual assault/rape
- Statutory rape
- Unwanted or nonconsensual sexual touching
- Groping
- Sexual contact with a minor
- Indecency with a child
- Lewd conduct
- Sexual coercion
- Indecent exposure or assault
These and other forms of sexual abuse carry serious criminal penalties, ranging from several months to many years in jail or even life imprisonment, steep fines, and more. If you have been accused of sexual abuse in Travis County, it is critical that you obtain legal representation as soon as possible.
Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Young Child or Disabled Individual
One of the more serious crimes in Texas, continuous sexual abuse of a child or disabled individual is defined under Penal Code 21.02 as committing two or more acts of sexual abuse against a child under the age of 14 or someone who is disabled, with at least two of the acts occurring at least 30 days apart. This includes any form of sexual abuse, including aggravated kidnapping, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, trafficking, compelling prostitution, and indecency with a child.
The crime of continuous sexual abuse of a child or disabled individual is typically charged as a first-degree felony, making it one of the most serious criminal charges in the state other than capital murder. The consequences for a conviction are grave and may include a prison sentence of 25 – 99 years or life imprisonment, with or without the possibility of parole.
If you or someone you care about has been charged with continuous sexual abuse of a child or disabled individual, it is imperative that you contact our firm right away. The state takes these cases extremely seriously, and prosecutors nearly always pursue the maximum possible penalties. You need an aggressive defense, like the team at Smith & Vinson Law Firm, to fight for you and your future.
How Our Austin Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyers Can Help
It doesn’t matter what type of charges you are facing—you have the right to an attorney and the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. If you have been arrested on sexual abuse-related charges, or if you are even under investigation for a crime, it’s in your best interests to contact our firm right away and put a skilled defense team on your side.
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we recognize the importance of moving quickly in the face of serious allegations. Our firm is ready to begin immediately building your defense and identifying potential strategies to have your charges reduced or dismissed. When possible, we can also seek alternative or reduced sentencing and, whenever necessary, we are fully prepared to aggressively defend our clients at trial.
For help with your situation, call a sexual abuse lawyer in Austin at (512) 359-3743 or contact our firm online to request a free, confidential consultation.
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Respected by Peers, Clients and Legal Organizations
Our Client Reviews
Earning Our Reputation by Protecting Yours
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Smith and Vinson are absolutely incredible! They go above and beyond to help their clients and have a track record of success in getting cases dismissed. Their aggressive approach and unwavering dedication make them stand out from the rest.- Linda W.
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What sets this firm apart is their unwavering dedication to their clients. They listen attentively, provide clear guidance, and approach every case with the utmost diligence. Their attention to detail is truly impressive, and they leave no stone unturned.- Former Client
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When in battle you need people by your side who are fierce enough to face the opposition with you. Brad and Jarod far exceeded my expectations with their passion for winning and attention to detail.- Nikki C.
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After the Jury was selected, the first witness was called to the stand, and Brad and Jarrod imploded the State's case. Moments later, the case was dismissed. I couldn't be any more thankful for Smith & Vinson.- Former Client
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
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Not Guilty Sexual Abuse
One Count of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Minor; Three Counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Minor; Two Counts of Indecency of a Minor by Contact/Exposure
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Not Guilty Sexual Assault
NOT GUILTY of sexual assault and two lesser charges. Our client maintained his innocence from the start, and we believed him.
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No Charges Filed Sex Assault Investigation
Our client had an affair with a married woman. When her husband found out, she accused him of rape and called the police, prompting an investigation. Our client wisely contacted our office immediately.
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Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Two Counts of Sexual Assault of a Child
Our client was arrested after two girls he met online turned out to be underage. He was charged with four counts of sex assault of a child. The State interviewed the girls and obtained incriminating cell phone evidence, as well as evidence of drug use. The DA’s Office aggressively prosecuted this case and sought prison time.
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Case Dismissed Juvenile Sex Assault
Our client, a young girl, was accused of sexually assaulting her young female cousin. Our client was a good student and was involved in a number of youth and school activities. She had a bright future ahead of her and she and her parents were understandably terrified that an accusation like this could ruin her life forever.
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Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Five counts of Sex Assault of a Child & Eight Counts of Indecency w/ a Child
Our client was accused of being in a relationship with an underage teen. He was charged with six counts of sexual assault of a child and eight counts of indecency with a child. The evidence was overwhelming. He thought his life was over.
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Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Two Counts of Sexual Assault of a Child and Four Counts of Indecency w/ a Child
Our client was indicted on two counts of sex assault of a child and four counts of indecency with a child. Our client confessed to the offense and there was substantial physical evidence corroborating that confession. The State aggressively prosecuted this case and sought significant prison time.
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Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Solicitation of a Minor
Our client was a legal permanent resident with no criminal history when he was picked up for solicitation of a minor after a sting operation. He faced serious immigration consequences if convicted of a crime of this nature. In addition, the evidence against him was substantial and he was looking at prison time.
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No Charges Filed Sexual Assault Investigation
Our client was a UT student who was accused of sexual assault. He came to our firm extremely scared about his future both with the university and within the criminal justice system. With our firm's help, he was able to show that his accuser was not credible. Smith and Vinson put together a defense that law enforcement recognized as credible evidence of his innocence and not to file charges which changed the course of our client's life.
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Charges Dismissed Sexual Assault Investigation
Our client, a promising Texas State student, was wrongfully accused of sexual assault by a classmate and hastily arrested. We demonstrated the consensual nature of their actions and exposed the accuser's ulterior motives. The District Attorney's Office dismissed the case.
