Being accused of sexual abuse of a child can profoundly impact an individual's life. The situation becomes even more severe when the charge involves the continuous sexual abuse of a child. Under Texas law and sentencing, this criminal offense is considered the harshest penalty a person can face, apart from capital murder. The emotional stress associated with a charge for continuous sexual abuse of a child can be excruciating but remember, you don't have to endure this alone.
Reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you or a loved one has been accused of continuous sexual abuse of a child. When you work with Nava Law Texas, you'll be represented by an esteemed and compassionate attorney who is determined to protect your rights. Call and schedule your free case evaluation to discuss your case details right away.
Under Texas law regarding sex offenses, if an individual over the age of 17 engages in two or more instances of sexual abuse within 30 days with a child or children under the age of 14, they are committing the crime of continuous sexual assault of a minor.
Here are the types of offenses that fall under "sexual abuse" in Texas:
In a case of continuous sexual abuse of a minor, the jury is not required to have a unanimous decision on the exact type of sexual abuse carried out by the defendant or the exact dates these crimes took place. However, they must reach a consensus that the defendant committed at least two sexual offenses within 30 days to find them guilty of continuous sexual abuse of a child.
The penalty for continuous sexual abuse of a child in Texas is a first-degree felony punishable by a life sentence in prison or for any term between 25 to 99 years. If you are convicted of a first-degree felony, you will face time in state prison, be required to register as a sex offender, and possibly pay up to $10,000 in fines.
If you have previous sex offense convictions, you will automatically receive a life sentence. Unfortunately, there is no chance for early release or probation for continuous sexual assault of a child.
If you or a loved one is charged or arrested for continuous sexual abuse of a child, you need to contact a respected criminal defense attorney. Our experienced defense attorney at Nava Law Texas can protect your constitutional rights. Reach out today, schedule a free case evaluation, and speak with an esteemed criminal defense attorney.