Austin Statutory Rape Attorneys
Aggressive Defense, Backed by a Proven Record of Success
If you have been accused of or charged with statutory rape in Travis County, it is essential that you seek immediate legal assistance from a skilled criminal defense attorney. At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, our statutory rape lawyers in Austin provide aggressive, tailored legal strategies aimed at securing the best possible outcome in your case. We understand the urgency and severity of your situation; our team moves quickly, taking swift action to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
For help with statutory rape charges, contact our team now at (512) 359-3743 and request a free, confidential consultation.
What Is Statutory Rape?
Statutory rape is a serious—yet often misunderstood—sexual offense. Texas classifies statutory rape as sexual activity occurring between someone who is over the age of 18 and another person who is younger than 17, which is the state’s legal age of consent. It does not matter if the acts were consensual; an individual who is at least 18 years old can be charged with a sex crime if they engage in any form of sexual conduct with someone 16 or younger with very few exceptions.
Understanding Statutory Rape Charges in Texas
There are three primary ways in which someone can be charged with statutory rape in Texas:
- Sexual Assault of a Child: Under Texas Penal Code Section 22.011, sexual assault of a child involves sexual penetration of or by someone under the age of 17 and another individual who is at least three years older than the victim. This offense is usually charged as a second-degree felony and carries potential penalties ranging from 2 to 20 years in prison, along with fines up to $10,000.
- Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child: Aggravated sexual assault of a child involves any sexual penetration of or by a child under the age of 14, committed by a person of any age. This offense is usually charged as a first-degree felony and may result in a prison sentence ranging from a minimum of 5 years to a maximum of 99 years, along with a potential fine of up to $10,000.Top of Form
- Indecency with a Child: This crime involves someone over the age of 18 engaging in sexual contact or non-penetrative touching with another person who is 17 or younger, where the offender is more than three years older than the victim. This offense is typically classified as a second-degree felony and is punishable by a prison sentence of at least 2 years, with a maximum of 20 years, along with a potential fine of up to $10,000.
Due to the potential for lengthy jail or prison sentences—including up to 99 years in state prison for certain offenses—statutory rape charges should never be taken lightly. We urge you to reach out to our Austin statutory rape defense lawyers right away if you are facing charges involving unlawful sexual activity with a minor. Even if you believe the allegations are untrue, it is critical that you work with an attorney who understands the law, knows how to develop a strategic defense, and is prepared to fight tirelessly for your rights.
The “Romeo & Juliet” Exception
Passed in 2011, Texas’s “Romeo and Juliet” law seeks to protect teens and young adults who engage in consensual sex and other sexual activities. It is often used as a defense to statutory rape charges, as it provides an exception for individuals who engage in consensual sexual acts and are no more than three years apart in age.
Key elements of the Romeo and Juliet exception include:
- The sexual acts must be consensual, meaning both parties could and did give consent
- The individuals involved must be no more than three years apart in age
- Neither party can be under the age of 14
For example, a 15-year-old and 18-year-old, a 16-year-old and 19-year-old, or a 17-year-old and 20-year-old may engage in consensual sexual activities in the state of Texas without it being considered a sexual offense under the Romeo and Juliet exception.
Our Team Is Ready to Defend Your Future
Even an accusation of sexual assault or statutory rape can have serious, long-lasting repercussions. At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, our goal is to help you avoid the life-altering consequences of a conviction. We understand that your future is on the line, which is why our statutory rape lawyers in Austin work tirelessly to protect you and your rights. Whether it’s fighting for a not-guilty verdict, seeking reduced penalties, or even working to have your charges dropped, our team is here to help you navigate the legal system and seek the best possible outcome for your case.
Don’t wait—reach out to our Austin statutory rape attorneys now for a completely free and confidential consultation. Call (512) 359-3743 or contact us online to get started.
Awards & Associations
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.
