Statutory Rape Charges and Penalties in Fort Worth, TX

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In the state of Texas, it is illegal for individuals over the age of 18 to have sexual relations with a minor (someone younger than 18). The logic behind the legislation is that minors do not have the ability to give informed consent to sexual activity.

Like all sex crimes, statutory rape carries heavy penalties and can affect you for the rest of your life. If you face charges for statutory rape, don’t wait to retain the services of a skilled Fort Worth criminal defense attorney for assistance.

Contact Jerry Loftin & Associates to get the effective legal representation you need to fight these charges.

What Are the Penalties for Statutory Rape in Texas?

Statutory rape is charged as either a first or second-degree felony in the state of Texas, which means heavier penalties in addition to the loss of rights normally afforded to citizens.

Penalties for statutory rape include:

• Incarceration in state prison:
  • Second degree felony – 2 to 20 years
  • First degree felony – 5 to 99 years
• Fines of up to $10,000
• Mandatory sex offender registration

Conviction for a felony charge could also impact your long-term ability to seek employment and make it difficult to sustain your livelihood in the future, which is why you need to enlist the defense of an experienced lawyer as soon as possible.

Defenses for Statutory Rape

There are a few exceptions to the general statutory rape laws, and many defenses to the crime have been developed, particularly due to the unique nature of each case. Texas has a “Romeo and Juliet” exception, which prevents criminal charges against teenagers who engage in consensual sex with other minors within three years of their own age, so long as they are between the ages of 14 and 17. Texas recognizes 14 as the age of consent.

Like in most states, mistake of age is not considered a valid defense for statutory rape in Texas. While it can be argued that a victim presented themselves as older than they were to the point where a reasonable person would have believed them, this rarely absolves a defendant of the charges.

Learn How Jerry Loftin & Associates Can Help

The lawyers at Jerry Loftin & Associates have extensive criminal trial experience in both federal and state courts. With more than 65 years of combined legal experience, you can trust Jerry Loftin & Associates to fight for your interests and pursue the best possible outcome to your case.

If you are accused of statutory rape in Fort Worth, seek help by calling Jerry Loftin & Associates at (817) 591-7850 and requesting a free initial case evaluation.