Texas Rape Defense Attorneys Who Handle Complex Cases
If you’ve been charged, call our sex crimes lawyers right away
Being charged with rape can feel like a crisis. Indeed, our attorneys understand the emotional turmoil being accused of any sex crime can bring.
At Botsford & Roark, want you to know that you don't have to face these charges alone. Our experienced team of rape defense lawyers is here to support you, fight for your rights, and provide the aggressive legal defense you need to get through these challenging times.
If you or your child is facing rape charges in Austin, TX, contact us today for a confidential case evaluation. We can listen to what happened, explain your potential legal options, and arm you with the information you need so you can decide how you’d like to move forward.
Understanding rape charges in Texas
Technically, Texas doesn’t have a so-called rape charge. If an individual is accused of rape, the charge against them will likely be sexual assault unless there are aggravating circumstances, in which case it would be aggravated sexual assault. Sexual assault covers a wide range of acts including rape. Under Texas law, rape occurs when an individual knowingly and intentionally engages in nonconsensual sexual activity with another person including:
- Penetrating the anus or any other sexual organ of someone else without their consent
- Penetrating another person's mouth with a sexual organ without their consent
- Causing another person's sexual organ to penetrate the mouth, anus, or any other sexual organ of another person without their consent
Rape penalties
Depending on whether there are aggravating circumstances, in general, the penalties for a rape conviction are:
- Sexual assault
- Second degree felony
- 2-20 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
- Aggravated sexual assault
- First degree felony
- Up to life in prison, $10,000 fine
If convicted of sexual assault, you will also be required to register as a sex offender with the authorities in your city or county of residence. Failure to register can result in further penalties.
How an experienced rape defense lawyer can help
When facing rape charges, it's imperative to have an experienced attorney by your side. An experienced lawyer can provide you with essential guidance, support, and legal knowledge throughout your case. Here are some ways the skilled sexual assault defense lawyers at Botsford & Roark can help:
- Navigate the complex legal system, ensuring that your rights are protected and that the correct legal procedures are followed
- Review the evidence against you, looking for inconsistencies or violations of your rights, which could be critical in your defense
- Conduct a thorough investigation, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to build a robust defense strategy
- Negotiate with the prosecution to explore possible plea bargains or reduced charges when appropriate
- Vigorous representation at trial
Contact Botsford & Roark for a free and confidential case evaluation
Being charged with rape can feel like the end. The charges can be intimidating and being accused of rape is often a life-altering experience. But you don't have to go through it alone. The Texas rape defense lawyers at Botsford & Roark are here to stand by your side, providing unwavering support and a commitment to defending your rights. If you have been accused of rape and charged with sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault in Central Texas, contact us for a free and confidential case evaluation to learn more about what we can do for you.