Just the words “child sexual assault” are enough to strike anger and disgust in the hearts of those who hear it. When someone is accused of such a crime it puts them at risk of having both their reputation and their life ruined. Even if they are ultimately determined to be innocent, the allegation alone may cause them to be stigmatized for life.
The Gagliardi Law Firm, PLLC understands the stigma associated with such allegations, and has solutions to help you wade the dark waters of a criminal offense related to the sexual assault of a child.
If you have questions about how our legal team can assist you during these trying times, call our law firm anytime of the day or night at 713-224-6277.
How Allegations of Child Sexual Assault Occur
Untrue accusations of a sexual assault involving a child may be made for a variety of different reasons. Perhaps the alleged victim is in their teenage years and had consensual sex with a boyfriend or girlfriend, only to have regrets.
Or, the other party ended the relationship, and the so-called victim decides to seek revenge by claiming sexual assault.
Maybe a parent is angry with a partner, friend, or family member, and coerced a young child to claim the person initiated sexual contact with them, as is common in divorce cases involving child custody disputes.
Or it’s possible a child was just confused and it was a complete misunderstanding.
There are many different scenarios where child sexual assault is falsely claimed, so these cases must be handled very carefully. If you’re accused of such a crime, it’s critical to immediately obtain the counsel of a defense attorney who has experience dealing with sexual assault cases.
Attorney Joseph M. Gagliardi has a wealth of experience fighting criminal charges like these on behalf of his clients, and can certainly provide you with prudent advice if you’re dealing with a felony charge like this. Call us at 713-224-6277 if you have any questions about how our legal team can help you.
Understanding Child Sexual Assault Cases
In the state of Texas, the legal age for sexual consent is 17. The crime of Child sexual assault refers to any sexual contact with someone under the age of consent that involves any form of penetration. In other states, it is commonly known as statutory rape.
Under certain circumstances, victimizing a child under the age of 14 can warrant felony charges of child aggravated assault. Criminal charges of this magnitude may also apply when a child is found to have been seriously injured during the coarse of an attempted sexual act.
Criminal Penalties for Sexual Assault/Child
The penalties of child sexual assault can be severe.
If convicted of this 2nd Degree Felony, the accused could face a prison sentence of 2-20 years. They must also register as a sex offender.
A conviction of aggravated child sexual assault, a 1st Degree Felony, can carry a prison sentence of 5-99 years or life in prison, plus mandatory registration as a sex offender.
If you’re guilty you’ll need a good lawyer, and if you’re innocent, you’ll need one better than that.
Experienced Sex Crimes Defense Attorney
Attorney Joseph M. Gagliardi has practiced law since 2004 and is among one the most dedicated criminal defense lawyers operating in Houston, TX today. Our legal team is ready to help you. If you’re facing allegations of a sex crime involving a child, our experience, training, and resources will be on your side. Attorney Gagliardi, or “Joe”, is here to help.
Don’t hesitate to call us for help. Contact us today for a free, no obligation consultation. Our phone number is 713-224-6277.