Texas Federal Child Sexual Abuse Attorney
Defending Clients Charged with a Federal Child Sexual Assault or Abuse Offense in Texas
When a person is accused of sexually assaulting or abusing a child, the penalties can be extremely severe. In some cases, federal charges may apply, and these charges are often more serious than those for state-level crimes. If you have been charged with a federal child sexual assault or abuse offense in Texas, it is essential to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of this type of case and who can provide knowledgeable legal representation.
At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we have extensive experience representing clients who have been charged with federal crimes, and we also work to protect the rights of those who have been accused of crimes against children. We can explain all of your rights under the law and help ensure that you receive a fair trial. We know the serious nature of these cases and the damage you may face to your reputation and relationships, and we will do everything we can to make sure you will be able to respond to the accusations against you and defend against a conviction.
Federal Charges for Child Sexual Abuse or Assault in Texas
Charges of sexual assault may result from accusations that a person engaged in sexual intercourse or other forms of sexual contact without the consent of the alleged victim. Because children are legally considered to be unable to give consent, any form of sexual contact between an adult and a child may result in charges of child sexual assault or child sexual abuse.
In most cases, sexual assault or sexual abuse of children will be charged at the state level. However, there are some situations where allegations of sexual assault may result in federal charges. These may include:
- Abuse of a child on federal government property - When sexual assault against a child allegedly occurred on land or in buildings owned by the federal government, including a prison or detention facility, a person may face federal charges for sexual abuse of a minor. These charges may be appropriate if the alleged victim was at least 12 years old but under the age of 16 at the time of the offense and the alleged perpetrator was at least four years older than the victim. A conviction for this offense may result in a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.
- Sex trafficking - If sexual assault of a child allegedly occurred in conjunction with child trafficking in which a minor was transported across state lines or international borders, a person will likely face federal charges. If threats, force, or coercion were used to cause a child under the age of 14 to engage in prostitution, a person may be sentenced to a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison. If a minor between 14 and 18 years old was recruited, enticed, harbored, or transported in order to engage in commercial sex acts, a person may be sentenced to between 10 years and life in prison.
- Sexual exploitation - Offenses related to child pornography will often result in federal charges due to the fact that pornographic materials may be accessed or transmitted using the Internet. In addition to sexual assault charges, a person may also face federal charges if they are accused of encouraging, enticing, or coercing a minor into engaging in sexually explicit conduct that was recorded through photographs or videos and distributed to others. A conviction on these charges may result in a prison sentence of between 15 and 30 years.
Contact Our Texas Federal Child Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer
If you have been charged with federal crimes related to child sexual assault or abuse in Texas, it is essential to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney. At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we can provide the legal help you need in these situations, and we will do everything possible to protect your rights under the law. We understand how serious these charges are, and we will work diligently to ensure that you will be treated fairly during your case. Contact us at 214-544-0061 to arrange a free consultation and get the legal representation you deserve.