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Rape Defense Attorney in Bryan
Rape Charges in Texas
Rape is a serious criminal offense that carries severe penalties upon conviction. If you or someone you know has been arrested for rape, sexual assault, or a similar crime, it is important that you speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Attorney Jay Granberry has handled hundreds of criminal cases and is ready to provide you with the aggressive defense you need. Our firm is committed to protecting you, your rights, and your future. We leave no stone unturned when it comes to building your defense—learn how our Bryan rape defense attorneys can help you with your case today.
Call (979) 353-6632 or contact The Law Office of Jay Granberry online to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
What Is Rape?
Technically referred to as “sexual assault” under Texas law, rape is a type of sex crime that involves nonconsensual sexual conduct. Rape, or sexual assault, occurs when a person engages in nonconsensual sexual penetration with another person. This includes instances of forced penetration, as well as situations in which a person cannot or does not give consent.
The issue of consent is critical in all rape cases. Even when a person does not outright object to sexual conduct, they may not have provided consent. Sexual penetration and other sexual acts are considered nonconsensual when they are carried out under duress, coercion, force, or threat of force. Texas also recognizes that some people are unable to give consent due to intoxication, impairment, mental disability, unconsciousness, or other factors.
Texas also recognizes the crime of statutory rape. This occurs when an adult (someone over the age of 18) has sex with or engages in sexual conduct with another person who is under the age of 17. This can be classified as statutory rape even when the younger person was a willing participant in the sexual activities, and the older individual does not have to know that the younger person was underage for the acts to be considered sexual assault. However, if the younger person is at least 15 years old and there is a three-year-or-less age gap between the two individuals, sexual activities between the two may not be considered criminal under Texas law.
Understanding How Rape Is Charged in Texas
Rape is a very serious crime in Texas. It is typically classified as a second-degree felony, though certain aggravating factors can escalate the charges to a first-degree felony.
Aggravating factors that may enhance rape charges in Texas include:
- Using a deadly weapon to commit sexual assault
- Sexual assault against a minor under the age of 14
- Sexual assault against someone who is elderly and/or disabled
- Sexual assaults committed with other people
If you have been charged with sexual assault in Texas, you should immediately retain a knowledgeable rape defense attorney. Our firm is here to help you understand your charges and fight for the best possible outcome. We encourage you to reach out to us today to discuss the specifics of your situation during a confidential consultation and case review.
What Are the Penalties for Rape in Texas?
In most cases, rape is charged as a second-degree felony in Texas.
If convicted of second-degree felony sexual assault, you face the following penalties:
- A prison sentence of 2 to 20 years
- A fine of up to $10,000
- Probation
- Mandatory sex offender registration
If you are convicted of first-degree sexual assault, you could face the following penalties:
- A prison sentence of 5 to 99 years or life in prison
- A fine of up to $10,000
- Probation
- Mandatory sex offender registration
If you are convicted of rape in Texas, you will have to register as a sex offender. This means that you will have to report your address to the Texas Department of Public Safety every year for the rest of your life. You will also be prohibited from living within 1,000 feet of a school or daycare center. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may face deportation after your sentence is over.
Sexual Assault Defense in Bryan, TX
If you have been accused of rape or sexual assault, you should contact a Bryan rape defense attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you speak with an attorney at our firm, the sooner we can begin building a strong defense for you.
A rape conviction will almost certainly have a severe, long-lasting impact on nearly every aspect of your life. We urge you to reach out to The Law Office of Jay Granberry right away to learn how our legal team can defend your rights and work to protect your future.
Contact us online or call our office at (979) 353-6632 to learn more.
Don’t Leave Your Immigration Matters to Chance
Every year, millions of people immigrate to America to live, work, or enjoy being an American citizen. Whether you are seeking a better life for you or your family, or you are looking for a new business opportunity, you need an attorney who thoroughly understands the complexities of the immigration process. That’s where I come in.
As a first-generation immigrant, I understand your circumstance. The immigration process is scary, uncertain, and frustrating. That’s why determination and dedication are not enough to succeed. You need an attorney who is knowledgeable, experienced, and has a proven track record of success. With 15 years of experience and 1,000 cases successfully solved, I know how to win and protect your dreams of being in America. From deportation defense to visa petitions, green card applications to naturalization, I work tirelessly to fight for you against all immigration matters you might be facing.
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Call 979-353-6632 to Schedule a Free Consultation