Sexual Assault Attorney in Laredo

Defending Your Rights in Serious Sexual Assault Cases in Laredo, 24/7

When you are facing a sexual assault charge in Laredo, everything can feel uncertain. At Altgelt Law Office, P.C., our criminal defense lawyers deliver over 20 years of criminal defense experience and courtroom proficiency in Webb County and beyond. 

Led by former prosecutor George Altgelt, we bring invaluable insight from both sides of the courtroom, providing you with a strong defense built on knowledge and commitment to justice. We work side by side with you and your loved ones, helping you navigate difficult moments and decisions with clarity and care.

Being accused of sexual assault in Laredo can put your freedom, reputation, and relationships at risk. The legal process is stressful and can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. We address your concerns directly, keep you informed at each stage, and build a solid defense that considers the details of your case and the realities of our community.

We offer free initial consultations and bring the unique experience of former prosecutors to your case. Contact a dedicated Laredo sexual assault lawyer at (956) 758-3001 or filling out this online form.

Understanding Texas Sexual Assault Laws

Texas law, under Penal Code § 22.011, defines sexual assault as a felony offense. It is a broad statute that covers a range of non-consensual sexual acts, and a Laredo sexual assault lawyer knows that the key element in these cases is the lack of consent.

Consent is absent in the following situations, as defined by Texas law:

• Physical Force or Violence: The accused uses physical force, violence, or coercion to compel the victim to submit.
• Threats: The accused threatens to use force or violence against the victim or a third party, and the victim reasonably believes the threat can be carried out.
• Incapacity: The victim is unconscious, physically unable to resist, or mentally incapable of appraising the nature of the act.
• Impairment: The accused intentionally impairs the victim's ability to appraise or control their conduct by administering a substance without their knowledge, such as a "date rape drug."

A charge can be elevated to aggravated sexual assault, a first-degree felony, if any of the following factors are present:

• The victim suffers a serious bodily injury.
• The accused uses or exhibits a deadly weapon during the offense.
• The accused threatens to use force against the victim or another person, and the victim reasonably believes the threat can be carried out.
• The victim is under 14 years of age.

The law also applies to both adult and child victims. The specific penalties for a sexual assault conviction vary dramatically depending on a number of factors, including the age of the victim and the presence of aggravating factors. A skilled sexual assault attorney in Laredo will meticulously investigate the facts to determine the specific legal definition and potential penalties that apply to your case.

Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

In a sexual assault case, the prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. We will focus our defense on creating reasonable doubt for each of these elements.

• Intent: The prosecution must prove that you acted knowingly or intentionally. In some cases, we can argue that the act was not intentional or that there was a misunderstanding of the situation.
• Lack of Consent: This is the most critical element in most sexual assault cases involving adults. The prosecution must prove that the victim did not consent to the sexual act. We will meticulously review all evidence, including text messages, social media posts, and witness statements, to determine if there is any evidence of consent.
• Nature of the Act: The prosecution must prove that the act falls within the legal definition of sexual assault. This may involve challenging the victim's testimony or presenting evidence that the act did not occur as alleged.

We will also investigate the prosecution's evidence to find any inconsistencies, procedural errors, or constitutional violations. A Laredo sexual assault lawyer knows that evidence obtained through unlawful searches or seizures can be suppressed, which could significantly weaken the prosecution's case.

Penalties of a Sexual Assault Conviction

A conviction for sexual assault in Texas carries some of the most severe penalties in the state.

Direct Penalties

• Second-Degree Felony: A conviction for standard sexual assault is a second-degree felony, punishable by a prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
• First-Degree Felony: A conviction for aggravated sexual assault is a first-degree felony, which can result in a prison sentence of 5 to 99 years, or life. If the victim is under the age of six, the mandatory minimum is 25 years.
• Sex Offender Registration: A conviction for sexual assault, whether standard or aggravated, will result in a mandatory requirement to register as a sex offender for life. This public registry will list your name, photo, address, and details of your offense, making it difficult to find a job or housing.

Collateral Consequences

Beyond a prison sentence and fines, a conviction will have a devastating impact on your life.

• Reputation Damage: A sexual assault conviction can cause irreparable damage to your reputation, affecting your relationships with family, friends, and the community.
• Employment and Housing Barriers: A criminal record for a violent felony and a lifetime of sex offender registration will create significant barriers to employment and housing.
• Loss of Rights: You will lose your right to own or possess a firearm.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Sexual Assault Defense

At Altgelt Law Office, P.C., we believe in a proactive and strategic defense. As your Laredo sexual assault lawyer, we will:

• Challenge the Victim's Credibility: We will meticulously review the victim's statements and look for any inconsistencies, changes in their story, or motives to lie.
• Dispute Scientific and Forensic Evidence: We will scrutinize the prosecution's forensic evidence, including DNA analysis and SANE reports. We will challenge the chain of custody and the methods used to collect and test the evidence.
• Argue Consent: If the case involves a question of consent, we will present all evidence that demonstrates that the alleged sexual act was consensual. This could include text messages, emails, or witness testimony.
• Present Alibi or Mistaken Identity: We will investigate whether you have a solid alibi or if there is a possibility that you were mistakenly identified.
• File Motions to Suppress: We will investigate whether law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the investigation. If evidence was obtained through an unlawful search or seizure, we will file a motion to have it suppressed.

Our firm is committed to defending your name and your future.

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