Sexual assault charges are among the most serious accusations one can face. In Texas, a conviction for sexual assault can result in lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and long-lasting personal consequences. If you are facing such charges in San Antonio, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced San Antonio sexual assault criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of these cases. At Del Prado Law, we are committed to providing dedicated legal representation and protecting the rights of individuals accused of sexual assault.

Facing sexual assault allegations can feel overwhelming, but with the right legal team, you can confidently navigate the criminal justice process. We understand the severe consequences of a sexual assault conviction and work tirelessly to provide a robust defense to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.

What Is Sexual Assault Under Texas Law?

In Texas, sexual assault is a criminal offense that involves the intentional and non-consensual sexual contact with another person. Sexual assault can include a range of actions such as unwanted penetration, oral sex, and other sexual acts performed without the other person’s consent. The Texas Penal Code considers sexual assault a second-degree felony, which can result in severe legal consequences.

Consent is a critical element in sexual assault cases. In order to be found guilty of sexual assault, the prosecution must prove that the alleged victim did not consent to the sexual activity. This is why consent is often a central issue in many sexual assault cases. If consent was given, the charges of sexual assault would not apply.

The Severity of Sexual Assault Charges

Sexual assault charges carry significant consequences in Texas. If convicted, you could face:

• Imprisonment: A sexual assault conviction in Texas can result in a prison sentence ranging from 2 to 20 years. In addition to the time spent in prison, you could face mandatory parole after serving your sentence.

• Sex Offender Registration: Individuals convicted of sexual assault are required to register as sex offenders. This can severely impact your future opportunities, including housing, employment, and social relationships.

• Fines: A sexual assault conviction may come with substantial fines, adding to the financial burden of a conviction.

• Long-term Social and Professional Consequences: The stigma associated with being convicted of sexual assault can follow you for the rest of your life, damaging your reputation and affecting your personal and professional relationships.

These serious consequences highlight the importance of hiring an experienced San Antonio sexual assault criminal defense attorney who can provide the expert legal representation you need to fight the charges.

The Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney

A San Antonio sexual assault criminal defense attorney plays a critical role in defending individuals facing sexual assault charges. At Del Prado Law, we provide personalized legal representation, working with each client to craft a tailored defense strategy based on the unique facts of their case. Here’s how we can help:

1. Thorough Investigation: We conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the alleged assault, gathering evidence to support your defense. This can include interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and examining any available physical evidence, such as DNA or surveillance footage.

2. Challenge the Evidence: Our legal team is skilled at scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence. We work to uncover weaknesses, inconsistencies, or holes in the case to discredit the evidence and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

3. Aggressive Defense Strategies: In a sexual assault case, there are a variety of defense strategies that may be applicable. We are skilled in using tactics such as challenging consent, questioning the credibility of the accuser, and highlighting the lack of physical evidence or witnesses. Every case is unique, and we will ensure that we craft the most effective defense for you.

4. Negotiation and Settlement: While we are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary, we also have experience negotiating plea deals. If appropriate, we will work to achieve the best possible result outside the courtroom, helping you avoid the most severe consequences.

5. Protection of Your Rights: Sexual assault charges can be emotionally and mentally taxing. We provide not only legal counsel but also compassionate support, ensuring that your rights are upheld throughout the entire legal process.

Common Defense Strategies in Sexual Assault Cases

There are several common defense strategies used in sexual assault cases, depending on the facts and evidence available. Some of these include:

1. False Allegations: False accusations of sexual assault are unfortunately not uncommon. In some cases, the alleged victim may fabricate the story for a variety of reasons, such as personal vendettas, jealousy, or misunderstandings. At Del Prado Law, we work tirelessly to uncover any falsehoods or inconsistencies in the accuser’s story that could undermine their credibility.

2. Lack of Consent: The core issue in many sexual assault cases is whether the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity. If you can demonstrate that the sexual activity was consensual, this may serve as a strong defense. Our attorneys will work to gather evidence, including witness testimony or communications, to establish that consent was given.

3. Mistaken Identity: In some cases, sexual assault charges are the result of mistaken identity. If you were not the person involved in the alleged incident, we can work to prove that you were wrongly accused. We may use alibis, video footage, or other evidence to demonstrate that you were not at the scene.

4. Insufficient Evidence: If the prosecution does not have enough evidence to prove the sexual assault occurred, the charges may be dropped or dismissed. Our legal team is adept at identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as the lack of physical evidence or reliable witness testimony.

5. Violation of Rights: If law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation or arrest, it may be possible to have the charges dismissed. This could include issues like unlawful searches, improper detention, or failure to inform you of your Miranda rights. We are dedicated to ensuring that your constitutional rights are upheld at all times.

The Importance of Early Legal Representation

If you have been charged with sexual assault in San Antonio, it is crucial to contact an experienced San Antonio sexual assault criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The earlier you have legal representation, the better the chances of achieving a favorable outcome in your case.

At Del Prado Law, we offer confidential consultations to discuss your case and begin building a defense strategy right away. Early intervention is crucial to ensure that we gather and preserve evidence, protect your rights, and develop an effective legal approach.

Contact Del Prado Law Today

Facing sexual assault charges is an incredibly stressful and frightening experience, but with the right legal representation, you can fight back. At Del Prado Law, we are dedicated to defending the rights of those accused of sexual assault in San Antonio and surrounding areas. Our experienced San Antonio sexual assault criminal defense attorney is here to help guide you through this difficult time and fight for the best possible outcome.

If you’ve been accused of sexual assault, don’t wait. Contact us today for a consultation. Call (insert phone number) or visit our website at https://delpradolaw.com/ to schedule your appointment. We are here to provide you with the defense and support you need.