Collin County Child Sex Abuse Criminal Attorney

Defense Lawyer for Clients Accused of Sexually Abusing Children in Plano, Dallas and Fort Worth

At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we know that when you have been accused of sexually abusing a child, your entire life will be changed forever, even if the allegations are not true. While a conviction will result in severe penalties and long prison sentences, simply being investigated and charged could destroy your personal and professional reputation long before you get the chance to defend yourself in court.

Attorney Darlina Crowder has more than 20 years of experience in the practice of criminal law. She and her team firmly believe that every defendant is innocent until proven guilty and deserves the best possible defense, regardless of the charges against him or her. Our team has secured more than 300 acquittals and not-guilty verdicts for our clients, and we know what is at stake when you are facing child sexual abuse charges. We have the knowledge, tools, and resources to provide the aggressive, responsible representation you deserve.

Sexual Abuse of a Child in Texas

In the great state of Texas, there is not an all-encompassing law that prohibits all sexual activity with a person under the age of 18. Instead, the Texas Penal Code contains a number of statutes that outlaw specific sexual behavior involving minors. Violating any of these laws could be considered child sex abuse, but the specific charges you may be facing will depend on the nature of the alleged acts, the age of the child, the harm that was caused, and other factors.

Sex crimes involving children that could be considered child sex abuse include:

• Sexual assault of a child: Sexual penetration of or genital contact with a child is considered sexual assault of a child. This includes non-consensual acts, as well as what is commonly known as statutory rape;
• Indecency with a child: Sexual contact with a minor that does not involve penetration or genital contact may be considered indecency with a child. Indecency with a child also includes the exposure of the perpetrator's or child's genitals for the purpose of gratification or arousal;
• Compelling prostitution: Causing a child under the age of 18 to engage in prostitution by any means is a crime;
• Child trafficking: Trafficking of a person is defined as a transporting, enticing, recruiting, harboring, providing, or otherwise obtaining another person for illicit purposes. Sex abuse and trafficking are often closely linked; and
• Sexual performance by a child: This offense covers the creation of child pornography, but it also includes other displays of sexual activity by a child.

Under Texas law, acts of sexual abuse also include aggravated kidnapping with the intent to abuse or violate the victim sexually, as well as burglary with the same intent. A person who is suspected of committing two or more acts of sexual abuse over a period of at least 30 days may face charges for the continuous sexual abuse of a young child or children. Continuous sexual abuse of a child is a first-degree felony, punishable by a minimum of 25 years in prison, with the possibility of a life sentence.

Trusted Defense Counsel in McKinney and Garland

At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we understand the seriousness of sex abuse charges, and we recognize the importance of protecting your rights every step of the way. No matter how grave the charges against you may be, we will work hard to ensure that you are treated with dignity and respect throughout the process. We will also fully investigate the circumstances of your arrest, looking for any and all details that could be used in building your defense. There is always at least two sides to every story, and we will make sure that you have the opportunity to tell yours.

Schedule a Free Consultation

If you or a member of your family is facing charges related to sexual abuse of a child, contact our office right away. Call 214-544-0061 for a free, confidential consultation today. Our firm serves clients in Plano, Fort Worth, Dallas, Denton, McKinney, Garland, Frisco, Collin County, Grayson County, Dallas County, Denton County, and the rest of North Texas. Se habla Espanol.