Child Molestation Defense in Denton
More Than Three Decades of Combined Experience in Sensitive Criminal Matters
Child molestation is a common search term, but it isn’t the name of a single Texas crime. An investigation may lead to allegations such as indecency with a child, aggravated sexual assault of a child, or continuous sexual abuse of a young child. The charged statute determines what prosecutors must prove and the potential consequences.
Police contact may begin before an arrest or formal charge. Interviews, searches, device access, and communications with potential witnesses during this stage can shape the case. We evaluate serious felony allegations from the initial investigation through courtroom proceedings, building each strategy around the available evidence and applicable law.
Before discussing the allegations with investigators, call our Denton criminal defense attorneys at (940) 400-0475 to arrange a confidential consultation. Night and weekend appointments are available by request.
A Defense Built From the Investigation Through Trial
We don’t apply the same response to every accusation. We examine the specific charge, how the investigation began, what evidence was collected, and which legal or factual issues require closer attention.
Depending on the facts, our defense work may include:
- Reviewing Arrests and Searches: We assess how law enforcement obtained statements, devices, records, and other evidence, including potential search and seizure issues.
- Evaluating Digital Evidence: We examine relevant text messages, social media activity, photographs, device data, location information, and authentication questions.
- Testing Witness Accounts: We consider how interviews were conducted, whether statements are consistent, when the accusation arose, and what may affect witness credibility.
- Using Investigators or Experts: When appropriate, our defense work may involve investigators, experts, and the review of forensic evidence.
- Preparing for Court: We assess available litigation options, cross-examine prosecution witnesses when a case reaches that stage, and prepare for hearings or trial.
Our familiarity with North Texas courts allows us to account for local procedures without assuming every Denton County case follows the same path. We provide regular updates, respond promptly to calls and emails, and offer customizable payment plans and credit card payment options.
What to Do After Police or Agency Contact
A request to answer questions may be presented as informal or voluntary. Before making a substantive statement, determine whether the contact is voluntary and seek advice about your rights. A subpoena, arrest, or notice of a child protective investigation may involve different obligations and deadlines.
While seeking legal guidance, take these preservation precautions:
- Preserve Existing Records: Keep potentially relevant messages, photographs, account information, calendars, employment records, and device data. Don’t delete, edit, or discard material connected to the allegation.
- Avoid Discussing the Facts: Don’t contact the person making the allegation or potential witnesses to explain, challenge, or investigate the accusation yourself.
- Stay Off Social Media: Don’t post about the investigation, the people involved, or possible evidence.
- Keep Legal Documents: Save subpoenas, warrants, release conditions, agency notices, and investigator contact information for review with counsel.
Texas Charges Associated With Child Molestation Allegations
The charging instrument identifies the offense the state intends to prosecute. The alleged acts, age-related facts, required mental state, available defenses, and prior record can affect the classification and potential exposure. The following statutes describe distinct offenses, not interchangeable labels.
Indecency With a Child
Texas Penal Code Section 21.11 applies to allegations involving a child younger than 17. It distinguishes sexual contact allegations, generally classified as a second-degree felony, from exposure allegations, generally classified as a third-degree felony. The state must prove the elements of the category charged.
Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child
Aggravated sexual assault of a child is a separate first-degree felony offense under Texas law. The required elements and potential punishment depend on the alleged conduct, the child’s age, other statutory circumstances, and the defendant’s record.
Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Young Child
Texas Penal Code Section 21.02 addresses allegations that a person committed two or more qualifying acts of sexual abuse over 30 days or more involving a child younger than 14 or a disabled individual, subject to the statute’s requirements. The offense is classified as a first-degree felony and carries its own sentencing provisions.
A conviction or adjudication for certain child-related sex offenses may also create sex offender registration obligations. Whether registration applies and how long it lasts depend on the precise offense, disposition, and governing law.
How We Examine the Evidence & the State’s Case
A defense assessment must test whether the evidence supports every element of the charged offense. It should also examine how information was obtained, whether investigators followed legal procedures, and whether disputed evidence can support the state’s interpretation.
Issues that may require investigation include:
- The reliability, context, and consistency of recorded or reported statements.
- The interview methods used with the accused, witnesses, or the person making the allegation.
- The authenticity, completeness, and interpretation of digital evidence.
- The timing of the accusation and its relationship to other events or disputes.
- The methodology and limitations of medical, scientific, or forensic evidence.
- Whether a search, seizure, arrest, or interrogation complied with constitutional requirements.
An investigation, arrest, formal charge, bond proceeding, plea negotiation, and trial each involve different decisions. We identify the current stage, review what has occurred, and develop a strategy for the specific legal and evidentiary issues ahead.
Discuss Your Denton Case With Our Defense Attorneys
Whether you’re under investigation, have been arrested, or are helping a close family member seek counsel, a confidential consultation allows you to explain what happened, share available documents, and discuss the next stage. If you prefer to write first, contact us through our website.
At Goline & Roland Law Firm, PLLC, we handle sensitive allegations with discretion, direct communication, and individualized attention. This page provides general information and isn’t legal advice for a specific case.
Call (940) 400-0475 to schedule a confidential consultation with our Denton criminal defense attorneys.
