Over 100 Not Guilty findings & Case Dismissals on Sex Crime Charges!
Sexual Assault
A sexual assault lawyer is a defense attorney who fights charges of sexual misconduct, rape, or assault.
Jack B. Carroll is that lawyer for Houston. Jack has built a reputation as a tough trial lawyer who takes on some of the hardest criminal cases in Texas. When you or someone you love faces a sexual assault charge, you need more than a lawyer, you need a proven fighter.
If you’re facing criminal charges or being investigated for any sexual assault, call Jack B. Carroll & Associates immediately.
Houston criminal defense lawyer Jack B. Carroll is a Board Certified® criminal-law attorney with numerous strategies that have proved successful in defending people accused of serious sexual offenses. If you’re ready to fight back and take advantage of your rights, call our office today at (713) 228-4607.
What is Sexual Assault, and How is it Prosecuted?
Sexual Assault (commonly referred to as rape) includes marital and statutory rape, along with child molestation. It is typically charged as a second-degree felony. If convicted, sentencing guidelines include a prison sentence that ranges from 2-to-20 years, a fine of up to $10,000.00 and a lifetime sex offender registration requirement.
Texas law defines sexual assault as any non-consensual sexual contact which involves penetration or contact with the victim’s sexual organs, anus, or their mouth. A suspect can also be charged with Sexual Assault if the suspect has sex with a mentally disabled person, unconscious, or the victim is incapable of understanding the situation or resisting the assault; the sexual assault standard as defined by the Texas Penal Code applies. Aside from more serious rape allegations, which are First-degree felonies, two prominent special applications of Texas rape laws involve the following.
- Marital Rape: Briefly stated, it is non-consensual, forced sexual activity between spouses, ex-spouses, or intimate long-term partners. Non-consensual sex can also include an inability to give consent when the victim is drugged, unconscious, threatened or otherwise coerced. But it gets worse if a male spouse is convicted of marital rape. His wife can sue him for damages in civil court.
- Statutory Rape: According to the Texas Penal Code, statutory rape occurs between an adult and a victim under the age of 17 other than his (or her) spouse. Moreover, statutory rape may involve seemingly “consensual” sex between the adult participant and minor “victim.” But since a minor by definition does not meet the state’s legal age of consent. The fact that the minor consented is not a defense for the adult; who then can be charged with sexual assault of a child. Statutory rape can occur in either heterosexual or same-sex situations so long as one participant is older than 17 years and the other is under 17.
Common Scenarios That Can Lead to Sexual Assault Allegations in Houston
Understanding how sexual assault charges arise is crucial for anyone facing these accusations. Many situations that seem innocent can spiral into serious criminal allegations:
Alcohol-Related Encounters Both parties were drinking at a bar or party in Houston. The next morning, one person claims they were too intoxicated to consent. Texas law states that someone who is intoxicated cannot legally consent to sexual activity, creating a complex legal situation even when both parties were drinking.
Morning-After Regret Consensual encounters between adults can become criminal allegations when one party later regrets the interaction. This often occurs when a spouse or partner discovers the encounter, or when social consequences emerge.
Custody and Divorce Battles During contentious Harris County divorce proceedings or custody disputes, false allegations may be weaponized to gain legal advantage. These accusations can devastate your family law case while simultaneously creating criminal liability.
Dating App Misunderstandings Online dating encounters that move quickly can lead to miscommunication about consent. Text messages and app communications become critical evidence in these cases.
Workplace Relationships Professional relationships that turn personal can result in allegations when the relationship ends, especially when there’s a power dynamic or company policy violation involved.
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“Accused” of Sexual Assault in Houston?
Call Sexual Assault Lawyer Jack B. Carroll & Associates Immediately
Sexual Assault Lawyer
Jack B. Carroll
Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys
If you have been charged with a crime in Houston, contact Houston criminal defense attorney Jack B. Carroll today at (713) 228-4607 or request your free case evaluation.
100% confidential and no obligation.
Proven Results
Best Sex Crime Attorney in Houston and Texas
Continuous sexual assault of a child. NOT GUILTY
351st Harris County, Texas, District Court.
Judge Natalia Cornelio
Continuous sexual assault of a child. NOT GULITY
Hardin County, Texas, 356th District Court
Judge Steve Thomas presiding
Indecency with a child by contact. NOT GUILTY
356th District Court, HARDIN COUNTY, Kountze,Texas. Judge Steve Thomas.
Indecency with a child by contact, NOT GUILTY
179th District Court, Harris County, Houston, Texas
Continuous sexual assault of a child, NOT GUILTY
179th District court, Harris County Texas, Judge Ana Martinez
Aggravated sexual assault/child, Hung jury, cased dismissed
488th District court, Harris County, Houston, Texas
Indecency w/child by contact, Hung Jury, case dismissed
488th District Court, Harris County Houston, Texas
Aggravated assault deadly weapon, NOT GUILTY
25th District Court, Columbus, Colorado County, Texas
Aggravated Sexual Assault
This is a First-Degree Felony. It occurs when the suspect seriously injures or attempts to murder the victim (or witness to the crime), or causes (or threatens) to seriously injure or kidnap the victim or any witness. It can also be charged if the suspect gives the victim any drug (Rohypnol, GHB, or Ketamine) which would render the victim defenseless. This crime can also be charged if the victim is elderly or disabled, under 14 years of age.
The Harris County District Attorney’s office typically (and aggressively) pursues Aggravated Sexual Assault charges if a weapon or violence was used in committing, or compelling the rape, or if the victim was elderly or disabled.
Special circumstance charges of Aggravated Sexual Assault are also filed in either of the following scenarios.
- “Date Rape:” This charge can also include “acquaintance” rape when neither person is specifically dating, but do know each other. The man allegedly put something in his “companion’s” drink to incapacitate or render her unconscious. Then, after the pair is in a secluded location, he has sex without the victim’s consent because she is unable to say “no” or resist his advances. He allegedly gave her one of several drugs in order to commit the assault, all of which come in pill, liquid, or powdered form: Rohypnol (“roofies”), Gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB, or liquid ecstasy), or Ketamine (Special K). It
- Sexual Abuse of a Child (Molestation): This happens when the perpetrator is 17 years or older and the victim is under 14. There are several acts which fall into this classification of “sexual abuse:”
- Engaging in sex that harms a child’s mental, emotional, or physical welfare
- Not taking “reasonable action” to stop sexual conduct involving a child
- Compelling or urging a child to engage in a sexual act
- Causing, permitting, encouraging, engaging in, or allowing the filming or depiction of a child engaging in obscene or pornographic behavior
- Allowing (or enabling) sexual performance involving a child
Aggravated Sexual Assaults (again, a First-degree felony) can lead to a prison sentence of up to 99-years, a fine of up to $10,000.00, and if ever paroled, mandatory registration as a lifetime sex offender.
And if the defendant sexually assaulted a child under the age of 6 or used violence to rape a child under the age of 14, a mandatory 25-year minimum prison sentence awaits the convicted suspect.
This is why when you stand accused of any form of sexual assault, you must have a seasoned criminal defense expert for you even to hope to keep your freedom.
Immediate Steps to Take If Accused of Sexual Assault in Houston
Critical First 48 Hours:
- Remain Silent – Do not discuss the allegations with anyone except your attorney. This includes:
- No statements to police without your lawyer present
- No contact with the accuser or their family
- No social media posts about the situation
- No discussions with friends or family about details
- Document Everything – Preserve all potential evidence immediately:
- Screenshot all text messages, emails, and social media interactions
- Write down your recollection of events while fresh
- Identify potential witnesses
- Save any photos or videos from the time period in question
- Avoid These Common Mistakes:
- Never attempt to “explain your side” to investigators
- Don’t delete any electronic communications (this can be seen as evidence tampering)
- Avoid contacting the accuser to “work things out”
- Don’t submit to voluntary questioning or polygraph tests
- Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney – Early intervention can mean the difference between charges being filed or dismissed. Call Jack B. Carroll immediately at (713) 228-4607.
If you, a relative, or another loved one is facing criminal charges stemming from an alleged sexual assault or other sex crime in Houston, we’ll help you.
Jack B. Carroll & Associates will meet with you anywhere, anytime, to hear your story and discuss your options.
We’ve successfully represented innocent defendants as well as those who may be guilty of the charge.
Depending on the circumstances of the case, the prosecutors may have a weak case against you. This is another very important reason to retain experienced criminal legal representation. Even if you intend to plead guilty, legal representation by Jack B. Carroll & Associates could be the difference between serving the minimum sentence and the maximum.
If you’re innocent, our stringent investigation will leave no stone unturned to prove your innocence, and relentlessly push for a complete dismissal of your case. Call us today at 713-228-4607.
Click here to see a list of sex crime cases where we’ve achieved positive results for our clients.
Accused of Sexual Assault in Houston, TX?
Reach out to Board Certified® Lawyer Jack B. Carroll Immediately!
In Texas, sexual assault is a very harshly prosecuted. One criminal charge against an innocent person can be made for spite, libel, guilt “the morning after” after consensual sex or as a result of legal disputes involving the family.
Our main objective is to find the best possible outcome for your situation and protect your Constitutional Rights.
Jack B. Carroll, Houston Criminal Defense Attorney
Understanding the Evidence in Texas Sexual Assault Cases
What Prosecutors Rely On:
Sexual assault cases in Harris County often proceed with limited physical evidence. Prosecutors typically build cases using:
Physical Evidence
- DNA evidence from sexual assault examinations (SANE/SART exams)
- Injuries documented through medical records
- Toxicology reports showing drugs or alcohol
- Clothing or bedding with biological evidence
Digital Evidence
- Text messages before and after the alleged incident
- Social media posts and comments
- Dating app conversations
- Location data from cell phones
- Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
Testimonial Evidence
- Alleged victim’s statement (often the primary evidence)
- Witness statements from people who saw parties before/after
- Outcry witnesses (first person told about the assault)
- Expert testimony on trauma response
Behavioral Evidence
- Changes in behavior after the alleged incident
- Seeking medical or counseling services
- Reports to friends or family
Understanding this evidence helps us identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build your strongest defense.
Our Main Objective
Accused of Sexual Assault in Houston, TX?
Get Help Now.
Call 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week
Contact Jack B. Carroll & Associates.
Need Help?
If you were accused of a crime and looking for help, don’t hesitate to contact my office or text me directly for a free confidential consultation at (713) 228-4607.
Houston Defense Lawyer for Sexual Assault Cases
Jack B. Carroll & Associates
Can I be charged with sexual assault if I thought it was consensual?
Yes. If the other person claims they didn’t consent or couldn’t legally consent due to intoxication, mental incapacity, or age, you can face charges regardless of your belief at the time. Consent is often the central issue in these cases, making experienced legal representation critical.
What if there’s no physical evidence?
Many sexual assault prosecutions in Harris County proceed based solely on the alleged victim’s testimony. Texas law does not require physical evidence for conviction. However, the lack of physical evidence can be a strong point in your defense strategy.
How long can charges be filed after an alleged incident?
Texas has no statute of limitations for:
Sexual assault of a child
Aggravated sexual assault
Continuous sexual abuse of a child
Indecency with a child
For adult sexual assault, prosecutors generally have 10 years to file charges.
What does a sexual assault lawyer do?
A sexual assault lawyer defends clients accused of sexual misconduct, challenges the prosecution’s evidence, and protects the client’s rights in court.
Can Jack B. Carroll handle felony sexual assault charges?
Yes. Jack is board-certified in criminal law and has defended clients in felony sexual assault trials throughout Texas.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
If convicted, registration is likely. Jack fights to avoid convictions, reduce charges, or secure outcomes that may avoid registration.
Can text messages be used as evidence?
Absolutely. Digital communications are frequently the most important evidence in sexual assault cases. This includes:
Text messages before and after the encounter
Social media posts and messages
Dating app conversations
Emails and photos
Never delete any digital communications after an accusation, as this can be charged as evidence tampering.
Does Jack B. Carroll try cases before a jury?
Yes. Jack has tried more than 100 cases before juries, including serious felonies and capital crimes.
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