Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer Dallas | Varghese Summersett

Are you facing sexual assault or sex crime charges in Dallas? A conviction can result in years or decades in prison, mandatory sex offender registration, and permanent damage to your reputation, career, and relationships. The stakes could not be higher. At Varghese Summersett, our Dallas sexual assault defense lawyer has secured dismissals, grand jury no-bills, and significant charge reductions for clients facing the most serious accusations. We understand what you’re going through and know how to fight back.

Texas prosecutes sex offenses aggressively, and Dallas County is no exception. Our analysis of more than 64,000 bonds set in Dallas County during 2025 reveals that sexual offenses carry an average bond of $72,032, nearly double the overall county average. Whether you’re under investigation or have already been arrested, the decisions you make right now will shape your future. Our team has former prosecutors who know how the other side builds cases. We’ve helped hundreds of clients avoid the worst outcomes. Call (214) 903-4000 for a free, confidential consultation.

Dallas County Sex Crime Filing Trends: What the Numbers Show

Understanding how Dallas County prosecutes sex crimes can help you prepare for what lies ahead. Our analysis of bond data from January through September 2025 reveals important patterns about how these cases move through the system.

Dallas County set bonds in more than 400 sexual offense cases during this nine-month period, plus over 300 additional cases involving sexual assault charges (categorized separately as violent crimes) and over 100 child-related sex offenses. The data tells a clear story: Dallas prosecutors file these cases aggressively, and judges set bonds that reflect the seriousness of the allegations.

The most frequently filed charges include indecency with a child (170 combined cases for contact and exposure), sexual assault and sexual assault of a child (190 combined cases), aggravated sexual assault of a child (112 cases), and continuous sexual abuse of a child (83 cases). These numbers demonstrate that Dallas County dedicates significant resources to prosecuting sex crimes at every level.

Types of Sex Crimes We Defend in Dallas

Sex crime charges in Texas span a wide range of offenses, from misdemeanors to first-degree felonies that carry life sentences. Our Dallas sex crimes defense team handles every type of allegation, including those involving minors, adults, the internet, and commercial sex work. Below, we break down the specific offenses we defend, including typical bond amounts, penalties, and sex offender registration requirements under Chapter 62 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.

Defenses to Sex Crime Charges in Dallas

Every sex crimes case is different, and the defense strategy depends on the specific facts, evidence, and charges involved. Texas law provides several categories of defenses: statutory defenses built into the Penal Code, affirmative defenses that shift the burden to the defendant, and general defenses that challenge the prosecution’s evidence or the legality of the investigation.

Statutory Defenses Under Texas Penal Code § 22.011

Texas law builds specific defenses directly into the sexual assault statute. These are separate from general defenses like consent or mistaken identity and must be properly raised and charged to the jury.

Medical Care Defense: Under Texas Penal Code § 22.011(d), it is a defense to prosecution for child sexual assault if the conduct consisted of medical care for the child and did not include contact between the child’s anus or sexual organ and the actor’s (or a third party’s) mouth, anus, or sexual organ. This protects legitimate medical procedures, such as examinations by healthcare providers, when performed within proper professional bounds.

Affirmative Defenses for Sexual Assault of a Child

For charges under § 22.011(a)(2) (sexual assault of a child), Texas provides two affirmative defenses. Unlike regular defenses where the state must disprove them, affirmative defenses require the defendant to prove them by a preponderance of the evidence. When proven, the jury must acquit.

Lawful Spouse Affirmative Defense: It is an affirmative defense if the child was the actor’s lawful spouse at the time of the alleged conduct. When proved, the jury must acquit even though the complainant was under 17. Texas permits marriage at 16 with parental consent, creating situations where sexual conduct between spouses is legal despite one party being under the general age of consent.

Close-in-Age (“Romeo and Juliet”) Affirmative Defense: Texas recognizes that consensual sexual activity between teenagers or young adults close in age should not always result in felony prosecution. This affirmative defense applies when all of the following conditions are met:

• The child was at least 14 years old at the time of the conduct
• The age difference between the actor and the child was three years or less
• The actor was not required to register as a sex offender at the time
• The actor and child were not prohibited from marrying (no bigamy or incest bars)

When all four elements are established, consensual sexual conduct between close-in-age parties is shielded from conviction. This defense recognizes the reality that many high school and college-age relationships involve partners on opposite sides of the age-of-consent line.

Important Limitation: No Mistake-of-Age Defense

Texas appellate courts have consistently held that there is no mistake-of-age defense for sexual assault of a child. Sexual assault of a child is effectively a strict liability offense as to age. The complainant’s mature appearance, lying about their age, or presenting a fake ID generally does not excuse liability.

However, evidence about the complainant’s appearance or representations about age may still be relevant in certain situations: proving the complainant was actually 17 or older, establishing elements of the close-in-age defense, or arguing mitigation at sentencing.

Consent Defense (Adult Cases)

For sexual assault charges involving adult complainants, consent remains a primary defense. Texas Penal Code § 22.011 defines 14 specific circumstances where conduct is “without consent,” including force, threats, unconsciousness, mental incapacity, and certain authority-figure situations.

The prosecution must prove lack of consent beyond a reasonable doubt. If evidence shows the encounter was consensual, the charges cannot stand. Evidence of consent may include communications between the parties, witness testimony, the complainant’s statements to others, and the circumstances surrounding the encounter.

For child sexual assault under § 22.011(a)(2), consent of the minor is legally irrelevant except within the narrow Romeo and Juliet affirmative defense or lawful-spouse context. A child under 17 cannot legally consent to sexual activity with an adult, regardless of their stated willingness.

False Accusations and Mistaken Identification

False accusations are more common than many people realize, particularly in cases involving family disputes, custody battles, divorce proceedings, or relationship breakdowns. Accusations can stem from anger, revenge, manipulation, or coaching rather than actual wrongdoing.

Our defense team works with private investigators, forensic psychologists, and other experts to uncover evidence that challenges the accuser’s credibility and version of events. We examine the complainant’s motive to lie, inconsistencies in their statements over time, the circumstances under which the allegations arose, and whether other witnesses contradict their account.

Mistaken identification also occurs, especially in cases involving alcohol, trauma, or limited visibility. Eyewitness identification is notoriously unreliable, and we scrutinize identification procedures for suggestiveness or other problems.

Constitutional Violations

Evidence obtained in violation of your constitutional rights may be suppressed and excluded from trial. Common constitutional issues in sex crimes cases include:

• Unlawful searches of homes, vehicles, or electronic devices without proper warrants
• Improper interrogation techniques or failure to provide Miranda warnings
• Coerced confessions or statements obtained through deception
• Violations of the right to counsel during questioning
• Illegal seizure of cell phones, computers, or other digital evidence

If key evidence is suppressed, the prosecution may be unable to proceed with the case. Our attorneys file aggressive pretrial motions to challenge the admissibility of improperly obtained evidence.

Insufficient Evidence

The most fundamental defense in any criminal case is that the state cannot prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution bears the burden of proving every element of the offense. If the evidence is weak, inconsistent, uncorroborated, or based solely on the complainant’s testimony without supporting evidence, an acquittal or dismissal may be possible.

Sex crimes cases often lack physical evidence, especially when allegations surface months or years after the alleged conduct. In these “he said, she said” situations, we focus on inconsistencies in the complainant’s account, lack of corroboration, evidence that contradicts the allegations, and the complainant’s credibility and potential motives.

Challenging Forensic Evidence

When forensic evidence exists, we work with independent experts to challenge the prosecution’s interpretation. This may include:

• DNA evidence that may be explained by innocent contact or contamination
• Medical examinations that show findings consistent with non-abusive explanations
• Digital forensics involving computers, phones, or internet activity
• Forensic interview techniques used with child complainants

Forensic evidence is only as reliable as the methods used to collect and analyze it. Our experts identify flaws in the prosecution’s forensic case.

Alibi and Third-Party Culpability

If you were not present when the alleged offense occurred, alibi evidence can be decisive. We investigate your whereabouts at the relevant times through witness interviews, electronic records, surveillance footage, and other documentation.

In some cases, evidence points to another perpetrator. Texas law allows defendants to present evidence of third-party culpability when there is a sufficient connection between the third party and the alleged offense.

Core Sexual Assault Offenses

Sexual Assault (Texas Penal Code § 22.011)

Under Texas Penal Code § 22.011, sexual assault occurs when a person intentionally or knowingly causes the penetration of another person’s sexual organ, anus, or mouth without consent or when the victim is unable to resist. Sexual assault is a second-degree felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

In Dallas County, sexual assault cases involving adult victims (88 cases analyzed) carried an average bond of $81,233, with $100,000 being the most common bond amount set. When the victim is a child (102 cases), the average bond climbs to $114,667, with $50,000 being the most frequently set amount. These high bond amounts reflect how seriously Dallas judges treat these allegations from the moment of arrest.

Sex Offender Registration: Sexual assault requires lifetime registration as a sex offender under Chapter 62. Sexual assault is classified as a “sexually violent offense,” which means offenders must verify their registration every 90 days rather than annually. Even if you receive deferred adjudication (probation without a formal conviction), you will still be required to register as a sex offender.

Aggravated Sexual Assault (Texas Penal Code § 22.021)

Aggravated sexual assault elevates the offense to a first-degree felony when certain aggravating factors are present. Under Texas Penal Code § 22.021, these factors include causing serious bodily injury, attempting to cause death, using or exhibiting a deadly weapon, acting with another person, using a date rape drug, or when the victim is under 14, elderly, or disabled.

A conviction carries 5 to 99 years or life in prison. If the victim is younger than 6 or younger than 14 and certain aggravating factors apply, the minimum sentence increases to 25 years with no parole eligibility. Our Dallas County bond analysis shows aggravated sexual assault of a child (112 cases) carried an average bond of $163,616, with $100,000 being the most common. These are among the highest bonds set for any offense in Dallas County.

Sex Offender Registration: Aggravated sexual assault requires lifetime registration with 90-day verification as a sexually violent offense. Registration requirements apply even with deferred adjudication. You will be prohibited from living within 1,000 feet of schools, daycares, playgrounds, and other “child safety zones.”

Continuous Sexual Abuse of Young Child or Disabled Individual (Texas Penal Code § 21.02)

This offense applies when a person commits two or more acts of sexual abuse against a child under 14 during a period of 30 days or more. Under Texas Penal Code § 21.02, this is a first-degree felony with a minimum sentence of 25 years and a maximum of life. Parole is not available until the defendant serves at least half the sentence. The state can secure a conviction without specifying exact dates, making these cases particularly challenging to defend.

Dallas County filed 83 continuous sexual abuse cases during our analysis period, with an average bond of $170,241 and a most common bond of $100,000. This is the highest average bond of any commonly-filed sex offense in Dallas County, reflecting the extreme seriousness of the charge and the lengthy mandatory minimum sentence.

Sex Offender Registration: Continuous sexual abuse of a child requires lifetime registration with 90-day verification. This is classified as a sexually violent offense. There is no possibility of early termination (deregistration) for this offense under Texas law.

If you or someone you love is facing this charge, immediate action is critical. Schedule a free consultation with our Dallas continuous sexual assault defense attorneys.

Indecent Assault (Texas Penal Code § 22.012)

Indecent assault under Texas Penal Code § 22.012 criminalizes non-consensual sexual touching without penetration. This includes touching the breast, anus, or genitals, or causing contact between any of these parts when the victim does not consent. It is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.

Sex Offender Registration: Indecent assault does not automatically require sex offender registration for a first offense. However, a conviction can still create a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and relationships.

Indecency with a Child (Texas Penal Code § 21.11)

Indecency with a child charges arise when an adult engages in sexual contact with a child under 17 or exposes themselves to a child with sexual intent. Under Texas Penal Code § 21.11, indecency by contact is a second-degree felony (2 to 20 years), while indecency by exposure is a third-degree felony (2 to 10 years).

Indecency with a child is the most frequently prosecuted sex crime in Dallas County. Our data shows 127 cases of indecency by sexual contact with an average bond of $112,481 (most common: $50,000), and 43 cases of indecency by exposure with an average bond of $53,198 (most common: $25,000). The high volume of cases means Dallas prosecutors have significant experience trying these charges.

Sex Offender Registration: Both forms of indecency with a child require sex offender registration. Indecency by contact requires lifetime registration with annual verification. Indecency by exposure requires 10-year registration with annual verification. However, “10 years” does not mean 10 years from the date of conviction. It means 10 years after your entire sentence (including probation or parole) is complete. If you receive 10 years of deferred adjudication, you will register during those 10 years plus an additional 10 years afterward.

We recently secured a no-bill from a Tarrant County grand jury for a client charged with indecency with a child. The grand jury declined to indict after we presented evidence challenging the credibility of the allegations. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes, but this case demonstrates what aggressive defense can accomplish.

Chapter 21 Sexual Offenses

Public Lewdness (Texas Penal Code § 21.07)

Under Texas Penal Code § 21.07, public lewdness occurs when a person knowingly engages in sexual contact, sexual intercourse, or deviate sexual intercourse in a public place or, if not in a public place, is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended. This is a Class A misdemeanor with up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.

Sex Offender Registration: Public lewdness does not require sex offender registration for a first offense. However, a conviction establishes a record that can enhance future offenses.

Indecent Exposure (Texas Penal Code § 21.08)

Indecent exposure under Texas Penal Code § 21.08 involves exposing the anus or any part of the genitals with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire while being reckless about whether another person is present who will be offended. It is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail, $2,000 fine) but increases to a Class A misdemeanor if the exposure occurs in front of a child under 18.

Sex Offender Registration: A single indecent exposure conviction does not require registration. However, repeat offenders are required to register. If you have a prior conviction and are convicted again, you will face 10-year registration requirements with annual verification.

Improper Relationship Between Educator and Student (Texas Penal Code § 21.12)

Teachers, coaches, administrators, and other school employees who engage in sexual contact or intercourse with students commit a second-degree felony under Texas Penal Code § 21.12. Unlike most sexual offenses involving minors, this statute applies regardless of whether the student has reached the age of consent. An 18-year-old student is still protected. Our Dallas improper relationship defense attorneys understand the unique dynamics of these cases.

A conviction results in 2 to 20 years in prison, mandatory sex offender registration, permanent loss of teaching credentials, and a criminal record that follows you forever.

Sex Offender Registration: Improper relationship between educator and student requires 10-year registration with annual verification. Registration applies even if the student was 17 or older at the time of the offense.

Invasive Visual Recording (Texas Penal Code § 21.15)

Sometimes called “improper photography,” this offense criminalizes photographing, recording, or broadcasting images of another person’s intimate areas without consent. Under Texas Penal Code § 21.15, invasive visual recording is a state jail felony (180 days to 2 years). If the victim is under 14, it becomes a third-degree felony.

Sex Offender Registration: Invasive visual recording requires 10-year registration with annual verification when the victim is an adult. When the victim is a child, registration requirements may be more extensive depending on the specific circumstances.

Unlawful Disclosure of Intimate Visual Material (Texas Penal Code § 21.16)

This statute addresses what is commonly called “revenge porn.” Under Texas Penal Code § 21.16, disclosing intimate images of another person without consent, with intent to harm that person, is a Class A misdemeanor. Repeat offenses become state jail felonies.

Sex Offender Registration: Unlawful disclosure of intimate visual material does not typically require sex offender registration for offenses involving adults.

Voyeurism (Texas Penal Code § 21.17)

Voyeurism involves observing another person in a dwelling or private location without consent, where the victim has an expectation of privacy. Under Texas Penal Code § 21.17, it is a Class C misdemeanor for a first offense but escalates to Class A with prior convictions or when the victim is a child.

Sex Offender Registration: Voyeurism does not require sex offender registration for misdemeanor offenses involving adults.

Sexual Coercion (Texas Penal Code § 21.18)

Sexual coercion occurs when someone uses threats (other than physical force) to compel another person to engage in sexual conduct. Under Texas Penal Code § 21.18, this is a state jail felony. Threats can include exposure of secrets, damage to reputation, or abuse of position.

Sex Offender Registration: Sexual coercion may require sex offender registration depending on the specific circumstances of the offense.

Protect your future. Talk to a Dallas sex crimes lawyer today by calling (214) 903-4000.

Online and Solicitation Offenses

Online Solicitation of a Minor (Texas Penal Code § 33.021)

Online solicitation of a minor charges arise from internet communications. Under Texas Penal Code § 33.021, it is a crime to communicate over the internet with a minor (or someone believed to be a minor) with intent to commit a sexual offense, or to distribute sexually explicit material to a minor. Soliciting a minor for sexual conduct is a second-degree felony. If the minor is under 14, it becomes a first-degree felony.

Dallas County actively prosecutes these cases. Our data shows online solicitation of a minor for sexual conduct (6 cases in sexual offenses category) carried an average bond of $42,500. General online solicitation (14 cases) averaged $52,143, while online solicitation when the victim is under 14 (6 cases) jumped to an average of $123,500. Many of these cases stem from police sting operations where undercover officers pose as minors online.

Sex Offender Registration: Online solicitation of a minor requires 10-year registration with annual verification. Because this offense typically does not involve actual sexual contact, it carries a 10-year registration period rather than lifetime. However, remember that “10 years” means 10 years after your sentence is complete.

We successfully secured a grand jury no-bill in a Tarrant County online solicitation case where our investigation revealed significant problems with the prosecution’s evidence. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Criminal Solicitation of a Minor (Texas Penal Code § 15.031)

Under Texas Penal Code § 15.031, soliciting a minor to engage in conduct that would constitute a first-degree felony is itself a first-degree felony. This includes soliciting a child to participate in sexual offenses, regardless of whether the offense is actually completed.

Sex Offender Registration: Criminal solicitation of a minor requires sex offender registration. The registration period depends on the underlying offense being solicited.

Child Grooming (Texas Penal Code § 15.032)

Texas added child grooming to the Penal Code to address conduct designed to build trust with a child for purposes of future sexual abuse. Under Texas Penal Code § 15.032, this is a state jail felony. Dallas County filed 3 child grooming cases during our analysis period with an average bond of $28,333.

Sex Offender Registration: Child grooming may require sex offender registration depending on the specific circumstances and any related charges.

Child Pornography and Related Offenses

Possession of Child Pornography (Texas Penal Code § 43.26)

Possession of child pornography is prosecuted aggressively in Texas. Under Texas Penal Code § 43.26, knowingly possessing visual material depicting a child under 18 engaging in sexual conduct is a third-degree felony. The offense becomes more serious based on the number of images, the nature of the material, and whether the defendant promoted or distributed it.

Dallas County takes child pornography cases extremely seriously. Our analysis revealed the following bond patterns based on the volume and severity of the material:

• General possession (17 cases): Average bond $125,000, most common $100,000
• Possession of 50 or more images/video (13 cases): Average bond $98,077
• Possession of 10-50 images (3 cases): Average bond $150,000, most common $175,000
• Possession involving child under 10 (7 cases): Average bond $81,429
• Possession with prior conviction (2 cases): Average bond $625,000

Sex Offender Registration: Possession of child pornography requires 10-year registration with annual verification for a first offense. Promotion of child pornography (second-degree felony) also requires 10-year registration. However, if the material depicts a child younger than 10, enhanced registration requirements may apply.

We secured a dismissal in a possession of child pornography case where our defense demonstrated that our client lacked knowledge of the images on their device. In another case, our client facing multiple child pornography and solicitation charges received a significantly reduced sentence after we negotiated the dismissal of several counts and secured a plea to lesser offenses. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Promotion of Child Pornography (Texas Penal Code § 43.26)

Promoting, producing, or distributing child pornography is a second-degree felony under Texas law, carrying 2 to 20 years in prison. Dallas County filed 6 possession with intent to promote cases during our analysis period with an average bond of $37,500. When the material depicts forced conduct involving a child under 10, bonds averaged $62,500.

Sex Offender Registration: Promotion of child pornography requires 10-year registration with annual verification.

Sexual Performance by a Child (Texas Penal Code § 43.25)

Under Texas Penal Code § 43.25, employing, authorizing, or inducing a child under 18 to engage in sexual conduct for a performance is a second-degree felony. If the child is under 14, it becomes a first-degree felony.

Dallas County prosecuted 6 sexual performance by a child cases involving victims under 14 during our analysis period, with an average bond of $158,333 and a most common bond of $200,000. These are among the highest bonds set for any offense in the county.

Sex Offender Registration: Sexual performance by a child requires lifetime registration with 90-day verification. This is classified as a sexually violent offense under Chapter 62.

Electronic Transmission of Visual Material Depicting Minor (Texas Penal Code § 43.261)

This offense, sometimes called “sexting” when it involves minors, criminalizes the transmission of sexually explicit images of minors. Penalties vary based on the ages of the parties involved and whether distribution was intended.

Sex Offender Registration: Registration requirements vary based on the specific circumstances, including the ages of the sender and recipient.

Sale, Distribution, or Display of Harmful Material to Minor (Texas Penal Code § 43.24)

Under Texas Penal Code § 43.24, distributing or displaying harmful material (sexually explicit content) to a minor is a Class A misdemeanor. If the actor is 18 or older and the material is distributed with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire, it can become a third-degree felony.

Sex Offender Registration: This offense may require sex offender registration depending on the specific circumstances and whether the offense is charged as a felony.

Human Trafficking and Prostitution-Related Offenses

Trafficking of Persons (Texas Penal Code § 20A.02)

Human trafficking for sexual conduct under Texas Penal Code § 20A.02(a)(7) and (8) is a first-degree felony punishable by 5 to 99 years or life. If the victim is under 18, the minimum sentence increases significantly. Dallas County prosecuted 4 trafficking cases involving minors during our analysis period with an average bond of $75,000.

Sex Offender Registration: Trafficking of persons for sexual purposes requires lifetime registration with 90-day verification as a sexually violent offense.

Compelling Prostitution (Texas Penal Code § 43.05)

Under Texas Penal Code § 43.05, compelling another person to engage in prostitution through force, threat, or fraud is a first-degree felony. When the victim is a minor, Dallas County sets exceptionally high bonds.

Our analysis shows compelling prostitution of a person under 18 (23 cases) carried an average bond of $150,872, with $100,000 being the most common bond. Compelling prostitution by force, threat, coercion, or fraud (14 cases in fraud category) averaged even higher at $241,071. These bond amounts reflect Dallas County’s aggressive stance against human trafficking.

Sex Offender Registration: Compelling prostitution requires lifetime registration with 90-day verification as a sexually violent offense.

Aggravated Promotion of Prostitution (Texas Penal Code § 43.04)

Aggravated promotion of prostitution, which involves operating a prostitution enterprise with two or more prostitutes, is a second-degree felony under Texas Penal Code § 43.04. Dallas County filed 19 cases during our analysis period with an average bond of $102,105 and a most common bond of $100,000.

Sex Offender Registration: Aggravated promotion of prostitution requires 10-year registration with annual verification.

Promotion of Prostitution (Texas Penal Code § 43.03)

Promoting prostitution (21 cases in Dallas County) carried an average bond of $77,857 with $100,000 being the most common. When the person being prostituted is under 18 (6 cases), the average bond was $71,667. These high bond amounts signal Dallas prosecutors’ commitment to targeting those who profit from prostitution.

Sex Offender Registration: Promotion of prostitution requires 10-year registration with annual verification. When the victim is under 18, enhanced registration requirements may apply.

Solicitation of Prostitution (Texas Penal Code § 43.021)

Solicitation of prostitution ranges from a Class B misdemeanor to a first-degree felony depending on circumstances. Under Texas Penal Code § 43.021, if the person solicited is under 18, the offense becomes a second-degree felony (2 to 20 years). Third or subsequent offenses involving adults are state jail felonies.

Sex Offender Registration: Solicitation of prostitution does not require registration when the person solicited is an adult. However, if the person solicited is under 18, registration requirements apply.

Prostitution (Texas Penal Code § 43.02)

While a first offense is typically a Class B misdemeanor, repeat prostitution convictions escalate in severity. Dallas County data shows first-offense prostitution cases (54 cases) averaged $1,219 in bond, while third or subsequent offenses (9 cases) averaged $13,667.

Sex Offender Registration: Prostitution does not require sex offender registration.

Other Related Sexual Offenses

Aggravated Kidnapping with Intent to Sexually Abuse (Texas Penal Code § 20.04(a)(4))

Kidnapping becomes aggravated when the defendant intends to violate or abuse the victim sexually. Under Texas Penal Code § 20.04(a)(4), this is a first-degree felony with 5 to 99 years or life in prison. Dallas County filed 3 cases during our analysis period with an average bond of $166,667 and a most common bond of $200,000.

Sex Offender Registration: Aggravated kidnapping with intent to sexually abuse requires lifetime registration with 90-day verification as a sexually violent offense.

Prohibited Sexual Conduct/Incest (Texas Penal Code § 25.02)

Engaging in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual intercourse with a relative within a prohibited degree (ancestor, descendant, sibling, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, or first cousin) is a second-degree felony under Texas Penal Code § 25.02. In our analysis period, Dallas County prosecuted 5 prohibited sexual conduct cases with an average bond of $66,000 and a most common bond of $75,000.

Sex Offender Registration: Prohibited sexual conduct (incest) requires 10-year registration with annual verification.

Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration (Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 62)

Registered sex offenders must comply with strict reporting and verification requirements. Failure to comply is a felony with severity depending on the underlying offense. In our analysis period, Dallas County filed 57 failure to register cases during our analysis period with an average bond of $28,193.

Failure to register ranges from a state jail felony to a second-degree felony depending on your registration requirements. Prosecutors take these cases extremely seriously and almost always seek prison time. With a prior felony conviction, you cannot receive probation from a jury.

Failure to Stop or Report Aggravated Sexual Assault of Child (Texas Penal Code § 38.17)

Under Texas Penal Code § 38.17, witnessing the commission of aggravated sexual assault of a child and failing to report it or failing to provide reasonable assistance is a state jail felony (180 days to 2 years). In our analysis period, Dallas County filed 4 failure to report child abuse cases with an average bond of $3,750.

Sex Offender Registration: This offense does not require sex offender registration.

If you’re facing any of these charges, protect your rights now. Call (214) 903-4000 to speak with a Dallas sex crimes defense attorney.

Understanding Sex Offender Registration in Texas

One of the most life-altering consequences of a sex crime conviction in Texas is mandatory sex offender registration. Many people are surprised to learn that you do not have to be convicted to be required to register. Accepting deferred adjudication for a registrable sex offense will not get you out of the reporting requirements. If you plead to a registrable offense, you will be required to register regardless of whether you receive deferred adjudication.

Registration Periods: 10 Years vs. Lifetime

Texas has two primary registration periods. Ten-year registration applies to offenses without sexual contact, such as online solicitation of a minor, or less serious offenses like indecency by exposure. Lifetime registration applies to sexually violent offenses and more serious crimes involving children.

A crucial point: “10 years” does not mean 10 years from the date of your plea or conviction. It means 10 years after your entire sentence is complete. If you receive 10 years of deferred adjudication, you will register during those 10 years and then for an additional 10 years afterward, totaling 20 years of registration.

Verification Requirements

Most sex offenders must verify their registration annually. However, those convicted of sexually violent offenses or those with two or more prior convictions for sexually violent offenses must verify every 90 days. Civilly committed sexually violent predators must verify every 30 days.

Within seven days of arriving in the city or county where you intend to reside, you must report to local law enforcement. Within seven days of completing the registration form, you must return to verify the information with proof of identity and residence. Failure to complete either step can result in felony charges.

Child Safety Zone Restrictions

Registered sex offenders face significant restrictions on where they can go and where they can live. You cannot go within 500 feet of schools, daycares, playgrounds, youth centers, public swimming pools, or video arcades. Most Texas cities have ordinances prohibiting registered sex offenders from living within 1,000 feet of these “child safety zones.”

These restrictions have practical implications. You won’t be able to attend a niece or nephew’s baseball game, soccer practice, or dance recital. Even if a judge modifies court-ordered restrictions, city ordinances typically still apply.

Employment Restrictions

Registered sex offenders are prohibited from working certain jobs, including operating a bus, taxi, or limousine service, operating amusement rides, and providing unsupervised in-home services.

Other Consequences

Registration triggers numerous additional consequences. Your Texas driver’s license must be renewed annually instead of every six years. If you travel, you must register in any location where you spend more than 48 consecutive hours on at least three occasions during any month. Your passport will be stamped identifying you as a sex offender. Your probation or parole officer can restrict or ban your internet and social media use. You lose your right to possess a firearm. You cannot vote while serving your sentence, including probation or parole.

Is Deregistration Possible?

Early termination of registration (deregistration) is possible in Texas under limited circumstances. You may be eligible if you have only one reportable conviction and your minimum registration period under Texas law exceeds the federal minimum under the Adam Walsh Act. An attorney can help evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the petition process.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences

Sex crime convictions in Texas carry severe penalties that extend far beyond prison time. The chart below summarizes potential punishment ranges for common offenses:

• State jail felony: 180 days to 2 years in state jail, up to $10,000 fine
• Third-degree felony: 2 to 10 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
• Second-degree felony: 2 to 20 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
• First-degree felony: 5 to 99 years or life in prison, up to $10,000 fine
• Enhanced first-degree felony (child victims): 25 years to life, no parole eligibility for at least half the sentence

Beyond incarceration, fines, and mandatory sex offender registration, collateral consequences include loss of professional licenses, inability to work in education or healthcare, loss of custody or visitation rights, immigration consequences (including deportation for non-citizens), and permanent damage to personal and professional relationships.

Dallas County Bond Amounts by Offense: What to Expect

Based on our analysis of 64,136 bonds set in Dallas County between January and September, 2025, here are the bond amounts you can expect for common sex crime charges:

Offense	Average Bond	Most Common Bond
Continuous Sexual Abuse of Child Under 14	$170,241	$100,000
Aggravated Sexual Assault of Child	$163,616	$100,000
Sexual Performance by Child Under 14	$158,333	$200,000
Compelling Prostitution Under 18	$150,872	$100,000
Child Pornography Possession	$125,000	$100,000
Sexual Assault of Child	$114,667	$50,000
Indecency with Child (Contact)	$112,481	$50,000
Aggravated Promotion of Prostitution	$102,105	$100,000
Sexual Assault (Adult Victim)	$81,233	$100,000
Indecency with Child (Exposure)	$53,198	$25,000
Online Solicitation of Minor	$52,143	$50,000

These amounts represent starting points. Actual bond amounts depend on criminal history, flight risk, strength of the evidence, and other factors. A skilled defense attorney can argue for reasonable bond at your first court appearance.

How Dallas Sex Crimes Cases Are Prosecuted

If you’ve been accused of a sex crime in Dallas County, your case will be prosecuted through the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. Cases involving children are often handled by specialized child abuse units with prosecutors who focus exclusively on these offenses.

After arrest, you’ll be taken to the Lew Sterrett Justice Center in downtown Dallas for booking and processing. Bond will be set based on the severity of the charge, your criminal history, and flight risk. As our data shows, bonds for sex offenses are significantly higher than for other crimes, averaging $72,032 compared to the overall county average of $42,752.

The prosecution will present the case to a grand jury, which decides whether to indict. If indicted, the case proceeds to trial in one of the Dallas County Criminal District Courts. Alternatively, the case may be resolved through plea negotiations, dismissal, or pre-trial diversion (in limited circumstances).

Defenses to Sex Crime Charges in Dallas

Every sex crimes case is different, and the defense strategy depends on the specific facts and evidence involved. Common defenses include:

False accusations and mistaken identification are more common than many people realize. In cases involving family disputes, custody battles, or relationship breakdowns, accusations can stem from anger, revenge, or manipulation rather than actual wrongdoing. Witnesses may misidentify perpetrators, especially in cases involving alcohol or trauma.

Consent is a defense to sexual assault charges involving adults. However, the prosecution must prove lack of consent beyond a reasonable doubt. If evidence shows the encounter was consensual, the charges may not hold.

Constitutional violations, including unlawful searches, improper interrogation techniques, or failure to provide Miranda warnings, can result in suppression of evidence. If key evidence is suppressed, the prosecution may be unable to proceed.

Insufficient evidence remains the most fundamental defense. The state bears the burden of proving every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak, inconsistent, or based solely on uncorroborated testimony, an acquittal or dismissal may be possible.

In cases involving minors, the affirmative defense of reasonable belief about the victim’s age may apply in limited circumstances under certain statutes.

Case Results: What We’ve Accomplished for Our Clients

Our Dallas sex crimes defense attorneys have achieved successful outcomes in cases involving the most serious allegations. While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, these examples illustrate our approach and capabilities:

In a case involving charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child, our attorneys negotiated a resolution that resulted in our client pleading to a significantly reduced charge of criminally negligent injury to a child (a state jail felony) with deferred adjudication. This outcome avoided a potential life sentence and sex offender registration.

We secured a complete dismissal in an aggravated sexual assault of a child case where our investigation revealed inconsistencies in the allegations and problems with the forensic evidence.

In another case, our client was charged with two counts of indecency with a child. After thorough investigation and presentation of exculpatory evidence, both charges were dismissed because the case should never have been indicted.

For a young client facing indecency with a child charges, we enrolled our client in a diversion program, which will result in records sealing upon successful completion.

Why Choose Varghese Summersett for Your Dallas Sex Crimes Case

Our firm brings unique qualifications to sex crimes defense. Several of our attorneys are former prosecutors who handled sex crimes cases from the other side. This experience provides invaluable insight into how the state builds cases, evaluates evidence, and makes charging decisions. We know the weaknesses they try to hide and the strategies they use at trial.

With more than 70 team members across four Texas offices, including our Dallas location, we have the resources to handle even the most complex cases. Our record includes more than 1,600 dismissals and 800 charge reductions across all practice areas. We have board-certified attorneys in criminal law, a distinction held by less than 1% of Texas lawyers.

We understand that you’re facing more than legal consequences. You’re facing fear, uncertainty, and the potential destruction of everything you’ve built. We approach every case with the seriousness and dedication it deserves, providing honest assessments and aggressive representation.

What Happens After an Arrest for a Sex Crime in Dallas

The criminal process for sex crimes in Dallas typically follows this path:

After arrest, you’ll be booked at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center. A magistrate will set bail, and you may have conditions attached to your release, such as no contact with the alleged victim, GPS monitoring, or restrictions on internet access.

The investigation may continue after arrest. Detectives may seek to interview you, search your devices, or gather additional evidence. This is a critical time to have an attorney involved to protect your rights.

The case will be presented to a grand jury for indictment. Your attorney can present evidence at the grand jury stage (through a “grand jury packet”) to persuade the grand jury not to indict. We have secured multiple no-bills in sex crimes cases.

If indicted, the case proceeds through pretrial motions, discovery, and potentially trial. Many cases are resolved through negotiated pleas or dismissals before trial, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I’m being investigated for a sex crime in Dallas?

Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney present. Do not try to “explain your side” or clear things up. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. If police want to question you, politely decline and ask to speak with your lawyer.

Can I avoid sex offender registration if convicted?

Some offenses do not require registration, and in rare cases, reduction to a non-registerable offense is possible. However, most sex crimes convictions in Texas trigger mandatory registration. Importantly, deferred adjudication does not avoid registration requirements for registerable offenses. The best way to avoid registration is to avoid conviction through dismissal, acquittal, or reduction to a non-registerable offense.

How long do sex crimes cases take in Dallas County?

Sex crimes cases often take longer than other criminal cases due to the complexity of the evidence, the involvement of forensic experts, and the serious nature of the charges. Cases can take anywhere from several months to over a year to resolve, depending on whether they go to trial.

What if the alleged victim is lying?

False accusations happen, and our attorneys know how to investigate and expose them. We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and other professionals to uncover evidence that challenges the accuser’s credibility and version of events. Texas juries acquit defendants when the evidence shows reasonable doubt, including doubt based on false or exaggerated allegations.

Why are Dallas County bonds so high for sex crimes?

Dallas County judges set high bonds for sex offenses because of the serious nature of the charges, concerns about victim safety, and the lengthy prison sentences these offenses carry. Our data shows the average bond for sexual offenses is $72,032, nearly double the county average. Skilled defense attorneys can argue for bond reduction based on community ties, employment, lack of criminal history, and other factors.

Will I have to register as a sex offender if I get probation?

Yes. Accepting deferred adjudication (probation without a conviction) for a registerable sex offense does not exempt you from registration requirements. If you plead to a registerable offense, you will be required to register regardless of whether you receive deferred adjudication or are formally convicted.

Protect Your Future. Call Now.

A sex crime accusation can destroy your life before you ever see a courtroom. The investigation, the arrest, the media coverage, and the social stigma can devastate your career, relationships, and reputation. You need attorneys who will fight for you from day one, who understand the stakes, and who have the experience to pursue every possible avenue of defense.

At Varghese Summersett, we’ve helped clients facing the most serious sex crime charges in Dallas and throughout Texas. We’ve secured dismissals, no-bills, acquittals, and reduced charges. We’ve protected people from decades in prison and lifelong sex offender registration.

If you’re facing sex crime charges in Dallas County, don’t wait. Call (214) 903-4000 today for a free, confidential consultation with a Dallas sex crimes defense lawyer who will fight for your future.