Being accused of sexual assault devastating. You’ll quickly find the criminal system can be extremely unfair and the presumption of innocence seems to have been lost. You need someone in your corner who understands the system and knows how to overcome it. In this article, our Fort Bend Sexual Assault Lawyer explains what you need to know if you’re accused of a sexual assault. At Varghese Summersett, our dedicated team of attorneys has extensive experience in criminal defense, including sexual assault cases.
Why Choose Varghese Summersett?
Experience and Expertise: Our attorneys have dedicated their careers to criminal law, starting as prosecutors before transitioning to defense. This unique background gives us a deep understanding of the prosecution’s strategies and tactics, allowing us to craft a robust defense tailored to your case. Our lead attorney in Fort Bend is also a former Fort Bend County prosecutor.
Board Certification: Three of our partners are Board Certified in Criminal Law, the highest designation possible for a criminal defense lawyer in Texas. This certification signifies that our attorneys have demonstrated exceptional knowledge, experience, and respect within the legal community.
Trial Experience: Our senior attorneys have collectively tried over 750 cases to juries in Texas. This extensive trial experience ensures that we are well-equipped to handle even the most complex and challenging cases.
Compassionate and Aggressive Representation: We understand the emotional toll of sexual assault allegations and are committed to providing compassionate and understanding support. At the same time, we are relentless and aggressive in the courtroom, ensuring that your rights are vigorously defended.
How We Can Help
Immediate Action: If you have been accused of sexual assault, it is imperative to contact a defense lawyer as soon as possible. Our attorneys can help you navigate the initial stages of the investigation, including interactions with detectives and CPS workers.
Preventing Arrests: In some cases, our defense lawyers have successfully prevented arrests or negotiated self-surrenders. We can assist in getting bonds and winning cases at the grand jury level.
Trial Preparation: If your case goes to trial, we are highly skilled at taking cases to court. Our firm is the only criminal defense firm in Fort Worth with a mock courtroom, where we prepare you for trial to ensure you are fully prepared for the legal process.
Sexual Assault Allegations We Defend
At Varghese Summersett, we understand the gravity of sexual assault charges and the impact they can have on your life. Our experienced attorneys are equipped to defend against a wide range of sexual assault allegations, including but not limited to:
Sexual Assault: In Texas, sexual assault involves non-consensual sexual activity. This charge can apply in cases where force or threats are used, where the alleged victim is incapacitated or unable to consent, or where the alleged victim is a minor.
Aggravated Sexual Assault: This is a more severe charge that typically involves additional factors such as the use of a weapon, causing serious bodily injury, or when the alleged victim is a child under 14, elderly, or disabled.
Statutory Rape: This charge applies when an adult engages in sexual activity with a minor under the age of consent, even if the minor agrees to the activity. Texas law sets the age of consent at 17.
Indecency with a Child: This charge involves engaging in sexual contact or exposing oneself to a minor with the intent to gratify or arouse sexual desire.
Sexual Assault of a Child: This serious charge is applied when an adult engages in sexual activity with a minor under 17. The law is strict, and the penalties are severe, even if the minor consented or initiated the encounter.
Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child: This charge applies when someone commits two or more acts of sexual abuse over a period of 30 days or more, involving a child under the age of 14.
Improper Relationship Between Educator and Student: This charge applies when an educator engages in sexual activity with a student, regardless of the student’s age or consent.
Online Solicitation of a Minor: This involves using the internet to communicate with a minor with the intent to engage in sexual activity. This charge can apply even if no physical contact occurred.
Unlawful Restraint with Intent to Commit Sexual Assault: This charge involves holding someone against their will with the intent to commit sexual assault.
Our firm is dedicated to providing a strong defense for individuals facing these and other sexual assault-related charges. We approach each case with the seriousness it deserves, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
If you are facing any of these allegations, it is essential to seek experienced legal representation immediately. Contact Varghese Summersett today to discuss your case and how we can help defend your rights and your future.
Tips for Handling Sexual Assault Allegations
Do Not Talk to Investigators: It is crucial not to speak with investigators or detectives without legal representation. Their goal is to gather evidence against you, and any statements you make can be used against you.
Seek Legal Counsel Immediately: Contact a sexual assault defense lawyer as soon as you become aware of the allegations. Early intervention can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Understand Your Rights: Be aware of your rights and the legal process. Our attorneys can guide you through the complexities of the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected at every stage.
I was arrested on an assault charge with bodily injury to a family member. The judge put me on an EPO bond. Once released I returned to the vicinity of my home and noticed someone taking items from it.l confronted that person and arrested a second time for violation of a bond. While I was incarcerated the second time my property was being taken. I hired an attorney that I could not get in touch with nor even show up in court with me or respond to texts or emails. When he did come to court he said I was facing jail time. Not only was I dealing with the agony of my property being taken, now jail was added to my problems. I decided to change direction. I went to the law firm of Varghese/Summersett with Tiffany Burks and here team Mitch Monthie and Michelle Bahr taking the helm. After the first consultation with them taking on both charges, I left feeling confident that I chose the right team for. Not only was I kept informed on my cases but had very good representation each time I was in court. Needless to say today I’m free of all charges. Thanks to Tiffany and that magnificent team of lawyers. This firm is the one you want on your side “GREAT CHOICE “👌
With out a doubt I am very satisfied with and I highly recommend this excellent firm. I say this not only because of my favorable outcome, in my case a dismissal, which is what my attorney Christy Jack wanted from the start. I say this because it was the entire experience - from my very first phone call to the morning the case was decided and I said thank you and walk out feeling relaxed and fresh and ready to move on. I feel none of those lingering unpleasant feelings one is often left with after turning your life over to a stranger. I am so glad I withdrew from my first choice of attorney and went with my gut and hired this firm.This firm operates as a team, is exceptionally responsive, efficient, and understanding of ones particular needs. I was able to maintain an active role and actually participate in my case on a daily basis through their online system. I was never left feeling things were out of my control or out of my hands. That was very helpful, crucial, as legal matters can be overwhelming and weigh heavy as things move along so slowly.Several years later….I want to reassure everyone that I still have very strong feelings about how well the difficult experience of going before the courts became a pleasant experience. Strange words for sure. What can be pleasant about something like this ?Having a very supportive and competent lawyer backed by a very supportive and committed team.I’ll cut to the point.Go with your gut feelings. I did. And Christy Jack proved me right.
Response from the owner: Thank you for your stellar review of our firm. We are always happy to be a source of comfort to our clients during a tremulous time--all while working hard behind the scenes to get exceptional outcomes. Your review reflects Christy Jack's communication, helpfulness, and understanding throughout. We wish you the best!
We are incredibly grateful to Mrs. Christy Jack for her expertise and dedication as a criminal lawyer. My nephew was falsely accused of third-degree family violence, facing a potential sentence of 2 to 10 years. Despite the challenging situation, Mrs. Jack believed in him, trusted his account, and worked tirelessly to present the truth.Thanks to her efforts, the prosecutor and grand jury recognized the facts, and all charges were dropped. Without her help, my nephew could have faced years in prison due to false accusations.Mrs. Christy Jack’s exceptional service and commitment truly changed my nephew’s life, and we cannot thank her enough. Highly recommend her to anyone in need of a compassionate and skilled attorney.
Response from the owner: Thank you for sharing such a powerful review! We’re so grateful that Christy’s dedication and belief in your nephew’s case led to such a positive outcome. Your trust and recommendation mean the world to us, and we’re honored to have made a difference in your nephew’s life.
Julie & Turner have helped me with my divorce case since 2021, the BEST in the business and I wouldn’t trust anyone else. Between Communication and efficiency they go above and beyond. Highly recommend
Response from the owner: Thank you so much! We are thankful for your trust and couldn't agree more!
I have 3 words. Exceptional, efficient and effective in their work , matched by actions and execution. From the moment they took me on as a client, they kept an open line of communication, followed by keeping me updated along the process and any progress. After enduring such a tragic accident by an 18 wheeler and hiring Jim Adler Law office I was highly disappointed by their service , lack of effort, care and professionalism. My case manager was non communicative, I never spoke to my attorney nor even knew who he was, such a terrible experience. The anguish I endured mentally, emotionally, physically and financially was draining and exhausting. I know these cases take time yet they were sitting ducks with my case and took nothing serious in my personal encounter and experience with them. Their google reviews looked great however their Yelp reviews were complete opposite and looked like many clients received the same treatment that I had encountered. So , when I was referred to Ty with Summersett by a friend. I called them quickly and was pleasantly surprised to receive immediate care, attention, and action without question or hesitation. From the compassion of the front desk staff, to my intake specialist Savannah who acted quickly and swiftly, to being able to speak with my attorney Ty, one on one on many occasions throughout the process. Again I know cases like these can take anywhere from a year to maybe even 2 years. Yet they took me on as clients by July / August 2024 and executed and resolved my case by end of December 2024. My case manager Natasha and lawyer Ty were methodical and professional through all and any negotiations and updates. Thank you, thank you, thank you team for such incredible and amazing resolve. You all are deeply appreciated ! God bless you all. I implore any and everyone with any legal troubles to please hire them , you won't be disappointed! I stand on that.
Response from the owner: Thank you for sharing your experience! We are so glad Ty, Natasha, and our team could provide the care, communication, and professionalism you deserved during such a difficult time. Your kind words mean so much to us, and we’re honored to have been able to bring your case to a successful resolution.
Facing sexual assault allegations is a serious matter that requires the expertise of a dedicated and experienced sexual assault defense lawyer. At Varghese Summersett, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of legal representation and support. Our extensive experience, board certification, and compassionate yet aggressive approach make us the go-to choice for sexual assault defense in Fort Bend, Texas. Do not hesitate to contact us today to discuss your legal situation and how we can help you navigate this challenging time.
Contact Our Fort Bend Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you or a loved one is facing sexual assault allegations, do not wait. Contact Varghese Summersett today for a free consultation. Our dedicated team is here to help you through this difficult time.
