Some people refer to the charge of indecency with a Child by contact as “Sexual Indecency with a Minor” or “Child Molestation” or “Child Abuse.” It is a serious felony charge in Texas, especially given the severity of Texas statutory rape laws. A person convicted of Indecency with a Child by Contact may face imprisonment and numerous personal and professional consequences. If you are accused of this crime, you should consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
About Indecency with a Child by Contact
In Texas, Indecency with a Child by Contact is a Second Degree Felony, punishable by 2-20 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000. Tex. Pen. Code § 21.11 (a) (1).
It is also a “3g” offense, which means a person convicted of the offense and sentenced to prison must serve at least 50% of the sentence before being eligible for parole. This also means that a judge may not place a person so convicted on ordinary community supervision (however, the judge may place the person on deferred adjudication). Tex. Code Crim. Pro. Art. § 42.12 3g.
Indecency with Child by Contact carries lifetime registration as a sex offender in Houston and Texas as a whole. The prosecution is required to prove the complainant was age 16 or under at the time of the alleged offense. The accusation involves any touching of the anus, breast or genitals, with the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person. It is an affirmative defense that the person accused was not more than three years older than the complainant and that no force, duress or threat was used.
Have You Been Arrested for Indecency With a Child by Contact?
If you have been arrested for Indecency with a child by contact it is extremely important to get the best possible legal defense available on your side as quickly as you can. The state of Texas has very knowledgeable prosecutors who will work diligently to get a conviction and harsh sentencing if a guilty verdict is rendered. The legal team of the Scheiner Law Group led by season trial attorney Grant Scheiner will fight for your rights and ensure the best possible outcome if your case goes to trial. The combined experience of their Legal Team in sexually based cases is extensive and they have countless hours of real trial experience with a high degree of success.
It is also very important that you speak only to a qualified Attorney and to know that anything you say or offer to law enforcement or prosecutors can and will be used against you in a court of law. In many cases, the conversations are taped and may be admissible in court which can be very damaging to your case. We understand these cases are very sensitive and they can have adverse effects on many aspects of your life, family, employment ties to the community and your future. Call and speak to one of our Attorneys today and start the process of your best legal defense before you say anything.