Have Questions?
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“How do I find a recently arrested person in San Antonio?”
Finding out where someone went after they were arrested can be difficult, and you may have to access websites online or make several phone calls. However, it can be a good start to visit the Magistrate’s Office Search Website to find information or call the Magistrate’s Office at 210-335-6111. If you have the inmate’s SID or System Identification Number you may call Central Filing (Misdemeanor Records) at 210-335-2238 or contact Felony Records’ District Clerk at 210-335-2591.
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“Can I represent myself in a San Antonio criminal case trial?”
San Antonio law allows you to represent yourself before the court under certain criteria. However, we highly advise against it. Do not risk your future! You need a criminal defense attorney who can protect your legal rights and has the necessary experience in providing an exceptional defense strategy on your behalf. Call our criminal defense firm to represent you for any criminal charges you may be facing.
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“What is a bench warrant?”
When a person fails to appear in court on a specific date after receiving a notice or order to appear, a bench warrant is usually issued. The person is subject to arrest once the warrant is issued.
If you choose to represent yourself, the court would expect you to file the correct legal paperwork and follow the complicated court procedures in your criminal case. The judge could impose harsh consequences, such as barring you from filing an important motion, if you violate the rules.
What are the Different Types of Sexual Offenses in Texas?
A conviction for any sexual offense carries serious consequences, such as incarceration, fines, and permanent inclusion on a Texas or federal sex offender registry. Sex offense cases can be difficult and unpopular to take on even for some sex crimes attorneys, and many are hesitant to do so. Our sex crime lawyer, Dr. E.R. Báez, will provide a strong defense to help you fight the allegations.
A variety of sexual offenses are covered by Chapter 21 of the Texas Penal Code. Under Texas law, some sexually motivated offenses include:
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault refers to a wide range of incidents, the majority of which involve an allegation that the accused caused sexual organ penetration without the victim’s effective consent. Sexual assault can involve vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and the perpetrator can be either male or female. Sexual assault also includes any sexual act with a child under the age of 17, according to Texas Penal Code § 22.011, unless the accused is three years older or less. Sexual assault is a felony in the second degree.
Online Solicitation of a Minor
This is when a person is accused of engaging in sexually explicit behavior with a person 14 or younger, or a person the accused believes is 14 or younger. The offense is a third-degree felony unless the accused knows the victim is under the age of 14, in which case online solicitation of a minor is a second-degree felony.
Indecency with a Child
According to Texas Penal Code § 21.11, indecency with a child can involve a child and either contact of breasts, genitals, or anus or the exposure of the same. It is a felony in the second degree. It is the same charge for exposing one’s anus or genitals, or exposing the anus or genitals of a child, for the purpose of sexual gratification. This is classified as a third-degree felony.
Aggravated Sexual Assault
An aggravated sexual assault is a sexual assault in which the victim suffered serious bodily harm, a lethal weapon was used, or the accused threatened to force the victim to participate in sex trafficking. If a date rape drug, such as GHB, rohypnol, or ketamine, is used, it may be considered aggravated sexual assault. It is a felony in the first degree.
What Are The Sexual Offense Penalties?
In Texas, the penalties for sex crimes vary depending on their classification and a number of other factors. Courts may also impose additional requirements, such as increased fines. In general, penalties for offenses may include:
- First-degree felony: five to 99 years in prison or life in prison, plus a fine of up to $10,000
- Second-degree felony: two to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- Third-degree felony: two to ten years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- State Jail Felony: 180 days to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- Class A misdemeanor: up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine
- Class B misdemeanor: up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine
What Crimes Put You on Texas' Sex Offender List?
In Texas, people convicted of a sexual offense must register with their local law enforcement authority for a specific period of time, depending on the severity of the sexual offense conviction. A convicted sex offender is required to register for life under Chapter 62 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure if they were convicted of any of the following sexually violent offenses:
- Indecency contact with a child
- Exposing a child to indecency
- Possession of child pornography or promotion of it
- A child’s sexual performance
- Minor compelled prostitution
- Assault on a female
- Aggravated kidnapping
- Aggravated sexual assault
Sex offenders may be registered for life. The accused sex offender must report to the police and report any relocation or move. You will be listed on the Internet and may be required to live far away from children, schools, or your place of employment. It is extremely difficult for many sex offender registrants to find gainful employment. If you are being investigated for a sex crime or believe you may be charged with one, it is never too early to consult with a lawyer about your rights and your case.
Our criminal sex crime attorney provides aggressive defense to people accused of sex crimes such as sexual assault, Internet sex crimes or pornography, and indecent exposure. Contact The Law Office of. Dr. E.R. Báez today to schedule an initial consultation or case evaluation with a skilled San Antonio sex crime attorney.
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