Sexual Assault Your Defense Starts Here

Sexual Assault Attorney in Houston

Board-Certified Defense Built on Prosecutorial Experience

Sexual assault charges in Houston carry consequences that begin the moment an accusation surfaces, long before any verdict. Employment, housing, family relationships, and reputation can all be affected while a case is still under investigation. I’m board-certified in criminal law and a former prosecutor who now defends clients facing these charges in Harris County. That background means I’ve built cases from the other side of the courtroom, and I use that knowledge to defend you.

Board certification from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization is held by roughly 1% of Texas attorneys. Combined with direct prosecutorial experience, it gives me a specific and practical advantage in defending these cases. I also limit my caseload deliberately, so clients receive direct attorney attention from first consultation through resolution. Free consultations are available virtually or in person.

Don’t let an accusation derail your life. Contact me, a board-certified attorney in criminal law, for a free consultation by calling (346) 567-8671 or contact us online today.

Understanding Sexual Assault Laws in Texas

Sexual assault is defined under Texas Penal Code § 22.011. The definition is broader than most people expect. It centers entirely on consent and specific acts involving penetration or contact, not on the use of force.

The Legal Definition of Sexual Assault in Texas

A person commits sexual assault if intentionally or knowingly:

  • Causes the penetration of the anus or sexual organ of another person by any means, without that person’s consent.
  • Causes the penetration of the mouth of another person by the sexual organ of the actor, without that person’s consent.
  • Causes the sexual organ of another person, without that person’s consent, to contact or penetrate the mouth, anus, or sexual organ of another person, including the actor.

Common situations that lead to charges include post-encounter consent disputes, cases involving intoxication where both parties believed the encounter was consensual, and allegations arising from custody or relationship conflicts. Because the statute doesn’t require force, the circumstances surrounding an encounter are often the entire battleground.

Aggravated Sexual Assault

The charge escalates to Aggravated Sexual Assault, a First-Degree Felony under Section 22.021, when aggravating factors are present:

  • Causing serious bodily injury or attempting to cause the death of the victim.
  • Using or exhibiting a deadly weapon.
  • Placing the victim in fear that death, serious bodily injury, or kidnapping will be imminently inflicted on any person.
  • The victim is younger than 14 years of age or is elderly or disabled.

Penalties & Collateral Consequences of a Sexual Assault Conviction

The consequences of a sexual assault conviction are among the most severe in the Texas Penal Code, and the collateral penalties outlast the sentence itself. If you’re facing these charges, avoiding a conviction is the central goal.

Direct Criminal Penalties

The default charge is a Second-Degree Felony, but the penalty can escalate quickly:

  • Sexual Assault (Second-Degree Felony): 2 to 20 years in Texas state prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.
  • Aggravated Sexual Assault (First-Degree Felony): 5 to 99 years or life, with fines up to $10,000. Under Texas Penal Code Section 22.021, the minimum sentence rises to 25 years if the victim was younger than six, or younger than 14 under certain circumstances specified in the statute.

Mandatory Lifetime Sex Offender Registration

A conviction for virtually any form of sexual assault requires registration as a sex offender under Chapter 62 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. That registration carries lifelong restrictions:

  • Public Listing: Your name, address, and offense details are publicly searchable online.
  • Residency Restrictions: You’re often barred from living near schools, parks, or facilities where children congregate, which severely limits housing options in a densely populated area like Houston.
  • Employment Restrictions: Certain licenses and job fields become inaccessible.
  • Ongoing Reporting: You must regularly report to the Houston Police Department or Harris County Sheriff’s Office to update your information.

A felony sex crime conviction can also affect federal financial aid eligibility, custody and visitation rights, and immigration status. These collateral consequences extend well beyond the sentence and make early, experienced representation critical.

Contact Me for Your Consultation

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from The Aslett Law Firm at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Focused on Justice, Dedicated to You

Stephen Aslett is here to help you get the results you need.

  • Results That Matter

    When reputations, freedoms, and futures are at stake, practical solutions and dedicated advocacy make all the difference. I am committed to helping my clients move forward with confidence after challenging circumstances.

  • Former Prosecutor’s Insight

    My years of experience as a Harris County felony prosecutor provide valuable insight into what works in criminal cases. This knowledge allows me to craft practical strategies designed to achieve the best possible outcomes.

  • Client-Focused Representation

    Every case is unique, which is why I take a personalized approach. By limiting the number of cases I handle at one time, my clients receive the attention and time necessary to build a defense strategy tailored to their situation.

  • Direct Attorney Access

    My clients work directly with me, ensuring clear communication and consistent support throughout the legal process. I never pass cases off to associates or assistants.

  • Dismissed State v. A.B. (driving with a suspended license)
  • Dismissed State v. A.B. (failure to stop and give information)
  • Writ granted State v. A.B. (writ of habeas corpus)
  • Dismissed State v. A.C. (burglary of a habitation)
  • Dismissed State v. A.C. (DWI 3rd)

    My Approach to Sexual Assault Defense in Houston

    My representation is grounded in board certification in Texas criminal law and direct experience on both sides of these cases. I take an exhaustive, evidence-based approach to every sexual assault case, because a favorable outcome depends on rigorous preparation and strategic execution, not generic defense work.

    What That Looks Like in Practice

    As a board-certified attorney in criminal law and former prosecutor, I bring specific tools to every defense:

    • Challenging the Complainant’s Credibility: Many false accusations stem from motives like revenge, custody disputes, or financial gain. I investigate the complainant’s background for underlying motive or inconsistency that can create reasonable doubt.
    • Attacking Forensic Evidence: Forensic evidence is often presented as definitive. I challenge the methodology used by the Houston Crime Lab, scrutinizing DNA transfer, testing protocols, and reporting standards against both scientific and legal requirements.
    • Consent as a Defense: In cases involving adults, I use surrounding circumstances, digital communications, and witness testimony to support the position that the accused had a reasonable belief the conduct was consensual.
    • Suppressing Unconstitutionally Obtained Evidence: I examine every stage of the police investigation, from the initial interview and arrest through evidence collection, for Fourth and Fifth Amendment violations that could support motions to suppress critical prosecution evidence.

    Why Clients in Houston Choose Me

    Sexual assault accusations carry a weight that goes beyond the courtroom. Clients come to me not just for legal strategy but for direct answers about what their choices mean for their future, their employment, and their reputation.

    • Former prosecutor insight: I know how Houston prosecutors build and pursue sexual assault cases, which means my defense strategy anticipates their moves rather than reacting to them.
    • Board certification: Only about 1% of Texas attorneys hold this recognition in criminal law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
    • Limited caseload: I keep my caseload small so each client receives focused attention and consistent communication throughout the case, not just at critical deadlines.
    • Virtual consultations: Get immediate guidance on urgent or sensitive matters before committing to an in-person meeting.
    • Protection beyond the verdict: I work to minimize the impact on your reputation, employment, and personal freedom, not only the legal outcome.

    SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

    • He got my son off a murder charge.
      - Cary W.
    • If I didn't have him representing me I'm certain that I would've been convicted on false charges.
      - Shaina W.
    • If you need a criminal defense attorney, this is the lawyer to call.
      - David B.

      What the Defense Process Looks Like in Harris County

      Working through a sexual assault charge in Houston involves a defined sequence of proceedings, and what happens at each stage can shape the case. Here is how I approach that process with clients:

      • Private case evaluation: We meet in person or virtually to discuss your situation. I answer questions directly and help you understand the nature and scope of the charges against you.
      • Strategy built from prosecutor experience: I evaluate the evidence the way a prosecutor would, and I walk you through what to expect in Harris County courts, including bond hearings, grand jury indictment proceedings, pre-trial motions, and the path to trial if it comes to that.
      • Consistent communication: You receive regular updates and straightforward explanations at every stage so you’re not left guessing about where your case stands.
      • Preparation for every appearance: I coach you through interviews and court appearances to help you avoid mistakes that could compromise your defense.
      • Focus on what matters beyond the courtroom: At each phase, I work to limit the impact of the charges on your job, reputation, and life outside the case.

      Harris County prosecutors treat these cases seriously, and local procedures, from arraignment through potential trial, have their own rhythms and expectations. My familiarity with those procedures can reduce surprises at each step. Whether you’ve received court paperwork, have a deadline approaching, or simply want to understand your options, I respond promptly. You’re not just a file.

      Take the Next Step: Contact a Sexual Assault Attorney in Houston

      If you or a loved one is facing sexual assault charges in Houston, early guidance can affect how the case develops. I offer confidential consultations, virtually or in person, so you can get clear answers and understand your options before you face court.

      Contact me at The Aslett Law Firm to schedule a private consultation and get direct answers about your case. Call (346) 567-8671 to begin building your defense.

      Continue Reading Read Less
      Get to Know The Aslett Law Firm

      Learn about my values, experience, and approach—dedicated to protecting your rights and defending your future.

      About Us