Online Solicitation of a Minor in Grapevine

While it is not a crime for an adult to interact with someone under the age of 18 over the internet, it is illegal to sharing explicit messages with a minor or solicit a minor for sex. In fact, it’s a very serious offense in Texas.

If you are facing allegations of online solicitation of a minor in Grapevine, it’s in your best interest to speak with a seasoned sex crimes attorney right away. Your livelihood and liberty are likely at stake.

Explicit Communication with a Minor Online

Under Texas Penal Code Section 33.021, a “minor” can be someone who is actually younger than 17 years old – or someone whom an adult perpetrator believes is younger than 17.

By Texas law, a person may be charged with online solicitation of a minor if they use any form of online communicate to send sexually explicit messages or material to a minor – or whom they believe to be a minor. This conduct is a third-degree felony offense, which is punishable upon conviction by a prison sentence of two to ten years in prison as well as a fine of up to $10,000. If the minor in question under age 14 – or believed to be so by the adult who contacted them –  this offense becomes a second-degree felony, and the maximum term of imprisonment is 20 years.

Arranging an In-Person Meeting Through the Internet

It’s important to understand that you can be charged and convicted of online solicitation of a minor even if the meeting never actually occurred. However, it is considered an affirmative defense to this charge if the defendant is either legally married to the minor in question, or the defendant was no more than three years older than the minor and the sexual encounter was consensual. Our team of qualified legal counsel can offer further clarification about how these exceptions could apply to your case.

Get Help from a Grapevine Attorney with Online Solicitation of a Minor Charges

Being accused of having sexual contact with a child in any context is an incredibly serious allegation, even if that contact only happened over the Internet. As mentioned, is possible to be convicted of online solicitation of a minor in Grapevine without ever actually meeting the minor you were allegedly messaging.

No matter how your charges came about, you deserve competent and dedicated legal representation. To learn what a qualified attorney from Varghese Summersett can do to help you, call today and set up your initial consultation absolutely free.

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About the Author Board Certified Lawyer Benson Varghese

About the Author

Benson Varghese is the managing partner of Varghese Summersett. He is a seasoned attorney, highly esteemed for his comprehensive knowledge and expertise in the field. He has successfully handled thousands of state and federal cases, ranging from misdemeanor driving while intoxicated cases to capital offenses, showcasing his commitment to preserving justice and upholding the rights of his clients. His firm covers criminal defense, personal injury, and family law matters. Benson is also a legal tech entrepreneur. Benson is a go-to authority in the legal community, known for his ability to explain complex legal concepts with clarity and precision. His writings offer a wealth of in-depth legal insights, reflecting his extensive experience and his passion for the law. Not only is Benson an accomplished litigator, but he is also a dedicated advocate for his clients, consistently striving to achieve the best possible outcomes for them. His authorship provides readers with valuable legal advice and an understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system. CriminalPersonal InjuryFamily Law Contact
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