To be accused of sexual assault or rape means to be accused of a crime that can have a devastating impact on your reputation, relationship with family members and your community, and that can cost you your freedom. Attorney Sandra J. Oballe understands the ramifications of sexual assault & rape allegations and offers an aggressive legal defense to defendants facing such charges.
The best way to address criminal charges for any type of sex crime is to secure legal representation with experience defending individuals accused of similar offenses. I won’t go as far as to say that the State of Texas railroads her defendants, but I will say that if you attempt to work with the prosecutors from the District Attorney’s Office in any way on a sex crime charge, you’ll come close to it.
The Law Office of Sandra J. Oballe provides stellar legal representation, an aggressive yet sound courtroom presence, and a level of client care that’s unparalleled in the Texas criminal defense bar.
If you need to talk with Sandy about a serious criminal charge that you’re facing, don’t hesitate to call our law office by phone at 713-524-6656 or by message form.
Rape, Sexual Assault & Texas Law
In the state of Texas, sexual assault charges usually follow allegations of date rape and claims of statutory rape. If a person is convicted of sexual assault, they could face a lengthy prison sentence which could result in an effective life sentence.
Sexual Assault
The Texas penal code defines sexual assault as any non-consensual sexual contact. Sexual contact is defined as penetrating the sexual organs of another person or touching their genitals or anus, or causing them to come into similar contact with that of the accused, without the consent of the alleged victim.
- Oral penetration of the same or similar manner, without consent, is also considered sexual assault.
- Accidentally touching or brushing up against a woman or young girl’s breast can also be regarded as a sexually assaultive offense.
Aggravated Sexual Assault
Aggravated sexual assault charges imply aggravating factors such as the threat or use of violence or the victimization of a person who couldn’t be reasonably expected to have an ability to defend themselves against the assault.
- Individuals who are accused of raping or coming into sexual contact with a child, an elderly or disabled person will be charged with aggravated sexual assault.
- Persons who use violence to compel a victim to participate or to not resist the assault will also be charged with aggravated sexual assault.
Criminal Penalties for Sexual Assault Guilty Adjudgements
Sexual assault is classified as a felony in the second degree in Texas. If a person is convicted of the offense, they’ll face a prison sentence not to exceed 20 years, a fine of up to $10,000.00, and a lifetime sex-offender registration requirement.
Aggravated sexual assault is classified as a felony in the first degree. Persons adjudged as guilty of a 1st-degree felony offense face a prison sentence up to 99 years, a fine of up to $10,000.00, and, if ever released, a lifetime sex offender registration requirement.
Facing Sexual Assault Charges in Brazoria County?
Contact Attorney Sandra J. Oballe As Soon As Possible
Whether you stand accused of sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault, your best option is to retain experienced legal defense counsel quickly. If you, a family member or other loved one are faced with such a criminal charge, Attorney Sandra J. Oballe is qualified and prepared to represent you.
Reach out to the Law Office of Sandra J. Oballe by calling us at 713-524-6656.
Since 2003, Attorney Sandra J. Oballe has represented defendants charged with criminal offenses in Houston and in Brazoria County. Whether you were arrested in Angleton, Alvin, Brazoria, Houston, or Pearland, you can expect Sandy to be there for you should you face criminal charges on the basis of allegations of sexual assault.
Often, allegations of rape are false allegations that can be rooted out with a detailed investigation, intensive interview of witnesses, and a hard look at the evidence. If you were falsely accused of rape or know some who is being victimized in this manner, contact The Law Office of Sandra J. Oballe.
