The age at which two people can engage in consensual sexual activity and avoid possible charges for statutory sexual assault in Texas is 17 years old. Before age 17, it is against the law for a legal adult of any age to engage in sexual contact or activity with a minor. Doing so could lead to criminal charges. If an arrest on such charges leads to a conviction, you could also face severe penalties and social stigma.
The state takes serious action against the adult member of a couple who does not adhere to the law. If you or a loved one faces charges for having sex with a minor, we can help. Our team will define what the age of consent is in Texas, review the charges against you, and outline how we can help you build a credible defense.
Complying with the Age of Consent in Texas
Crimes related to sex with a minor can wreak havoc on your life. Younger people might have difficulty understanding how the law applies even when one partner is only slightly younger or older than the other. Consensual sex is not the only infraction possible under the law. According to TX Penal Code Section 21.11, you break the law if you:
- Engage in any sexual contact with a child
- Sexually expose yourself to a child
- Cause a child to expose themselves to you
The Texas State Law Library explains how the state has a so-called “Romeo and Juliet” provision that offers some protection for partners who are close in age. Section 21.11(b)(1) provides an affirmative defense if you were no more than three years older than the victim.
The State Will Not Excuse Ignorance of the Minor’s Age
The state does not excuse you from punishment simply because you claim you did not know the age of the other participant. The penalties you can face for sexual activity with a child include:
- Becoming a registered sex offender under TX Penal Code Section 62
- A second-degree felony conviction with confinement for up to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000, per TX Penal Code Section 12.33
- A third-degree felony conviction with confinement for up to 10 years and a fine not to exceed $10,000
Some factors can change or enhance possible sentences. Nevertheless, we can help you mount several credible defenses.
How Our Criminal Justice Team Can Help
Laws regarding underage sexual conduct can be complicated, making defending yourself difficult. In addition, depending on the circumstances of your case, the penalties of a conviction can vary. When our team handles your defense, we go to bat for you. On your behalf, we will:
- Review the details of your case
- Defend you without judgment
- Negotiate plea agreements
- Represent you in court
When you trust our law firm to assist you, Randall B. Isenberg brings more than 30 years of experience to your defense. His career as both a former prosecutor and a state district judge means his understanding of the criminal defense system works on your behalf.
Read Reviews from Previous Clients
Testimonials from previous clients provide valuable information about what it is like to work with our criminal defense team. Their testimonials say:
- “The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg did excellent work with communication and helping me understand what everything meant… I really enjoyed the close care they took with my case and also the friendly welcome they gave me every time I called…they were truly excellent.” – Anonymous
- “Randall Isenberg went above and beyond my expectations and (I) would highly recommend him as a lawyer. He is thorough, intelligent, and hard working. He stayed in touch with me throughout the representation and made sure I was up to speed along the way.” – Anonymous
- “When my friend got in trouble, I recommended Randall Isenberg, knowing that he would be a great choice. What I did not realize was just how much of a personal interest he would take, not only helping navigate the legal process but also providing a moral compass for my good friend.” – Anonymous
You can read more reviews on our testimonials page and see why our clients recommend us to their friends and family.
Get a Free Evaluation of Your Case
Are you or someone you love facing charges related to the age of consent in Texas? Review the facts of your case and learn how we can help you build a credible defense by contacting one of our team members. Call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg case review team today at (214) 696-9253.
