Texas Sexual Assault Defense

Summary

Sexual assault cases in Texas are serious, with severe penalties including imprisonment and sex offender registration. Errors in magistrate orders, like incorrect arrest details, may not lead to dismissal but can challenge credibility. Defendants cannot attend grand jury proceedings, which are secret. After indictment, arraignment, pretrial hearings, and trial follow. Changing a plea at sentencing requires valid reasons. You can fire your attorney, but court approval is needed if in court. Consider hiring a new attorney specializing in sexual assault defense. Common motions include dismissals, suppressions, and discovery. Seek local legal counsel for personalized guidance.

Full Conversation

criminal case in texas
Hi Kevin! I can definitely provide some general information on criminal cases in Texas. Could you please specify the type of criminal case you're dealing with (e.g., theft, assault, DUI)? This will help me give you more accurate information.
sexual assault
I'm really sorry to hear that you're dealing with this, Kevin. Sexual assault cases are very serious. Would you like me to connect you to local lawyers who can better assist with your case?
no
Case Rating: *
Kevin, sexual assault cases are very serious and can have severe legal consequences. Here are some general points about sexual assault laws in Texas:
- Sexual assault is defined under Texas Penal Code Section *.*.
- Convictions can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and registration as a sex offender.
- The statute of limitations generally allows for prosecution within 10 years from the date of the offense, but there are exceptions.
Would you like more specific information on the legal process or next steps?
so on the magistrates orders that i got when they set my bond the time of arrest the place of arrest the arresting officer are all wrong they put me being arrested at the police station but i was arrested in another city would that be grounds for dismissal
Case Rating: *
Kevin, inaccuracies in the magistrate's order can be significant in your case. However, they usually do not automatically lead to dismissal. They can be used to challenge the credibility of the arresting officer and the circumstances of your arrest. It's best to discuss these errors with your attorney to determine their impact on your case.
ok when the grand jury meets to indict you are you able to be present
Case Rating: *
Kevin, you do not have the right to be present when the grand jury meets to consider an indictment. This process is typically conducted in secret, and the accused is not allowed to attend. The grand jury's role is to determine if there is enough evidence to formally charge you with a crime.
Would you like more information on what happens after an indictment?
yes
Case Rating: *
Kevin, once an indictment is issued, the following steps generally occur:
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and asked to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
- Pretrial Hearings: Various motions and legal arguments take place.
- Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, your case proceeds to trial.
Would you like more details on any of these steps?
if you reach a plea agreement can you change your plea at the sentancing hearing
Case Rating: *
Kevin, changing your plea at the sentencing hearing after reaching a plea agreement can be challenging. Typically, the court would need a valid reason to allow you to withdraw your plea, such as new evidence or issues with the plea process. It's best to discuss this with your attorney to explore your options.
what if i want to fire my attorney
Case Rating: *
Kevin, you generally have the right to fire your attorney, but you should consider the timing and reasons carefully. Here’s what you need to know:
- Inform the attorney in writing.
- The court needs to approve the change if your case is already in court.
- You may need to hire a new attorney quickly to avoid delays.
Why do you want to fire your attorney?
i dont feel like he represented me to the best of his ability
Case Rating: *
Kevin, your concerns are valid, and it's important to have an attorney who represents you effectively. Here are some general steps to firing your attorney and hiring a new one:
- Inform your current attorney in writing about your decision.
- If your case is already in court, you will need the court's approval to change attorneys.
- Hire a new attorney quickly to avoid delays.
Would you like any more specific information or assistance related to your case?
yes
Case Rating: *
Kevin, it's essential to have effective legal representation. Here are some tips on what to look for in a new attorney:
- Specializes in criminal defense, particularly in sexual assault cases.
- Has a good track record and client reviews.
- Communicates clearly and keeps you informed.
Do you have any specific questions about the process of hiring a new attorney?
what motions do i need to file
Case Rating: *
Kevin, here are some common motions you might consider filing in a criminal case:
- Motion to Dismiss: If there are grounds, like lack of evidence or procedural errors.
- Motion to Suppress: If there is evidence that was improperly obtained.
- Motion for Discovery: To obtain evidence from the prosecution.
Would you like more details on any specific motion?
yes all of them
Case Rating: *
Kevin, it might be beneficial to connect you with local lawyers who can better assist you with your case.
Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case?
yes
Case Rating: *
Kevin, it might be a high-value case. Let's proceed with getting you connected to local lawyers who can better assist you.
What is your phone number?
* * *
Case Rating: *
Kevin, it might be a high-value case. Let's proceed with getting you connected to local lawyers who can better assist you.
What is your zipcode?
*
Case Rating: *
Kevin, it might be a high-value case. Let's proceed with getting you connected to local lawyers who can better assist you.
What is your name?
**** jones
Case Rating: *
Kevin, it might be a high-value case. Let's proceed with getting you connected to local lawyers who can better assist you.
What is your email address?
no thank you
Case Rating: *
Kevin, you have taken the right steps by seeking assistance. Your case seems to have significant complexities and having a skilled attorney is crucial. If you need any more help in the future, don't hesitate to reach out. Best of luck with your case!
appreciate that thankk you
Case Rating: *
Kevin's case is quite serious and involves complex legal issues. He has taken the right step by seeking assistance and connecting with a local lawyer. The potential errors in the magistrate's order and concerns about his legal representation need professional attention.
No further action is needed at this point.