Date Rape Attorney in Houston, Texas

Being a victim of date rape often leads to overwhelming pain and fear. Date rape is a traumatic experience that leaves lasting emotional, psychological, and physical scars, and the fight for justice can feel like an uphill battle. 

If you have experienced date rape and need legal help, you're not alone. At Bradford N. Oesch, P.C., we are here to provide you with the support and guidance you need. With over 32 years of experience, our firm is committed to fighting for date rape victims and advocating for their best interests in their pursuit of justice. 

By tapping into homeowners' or renters' insurance policies, we work tirelessly to hold date rape offenders accountable and help survivors pursue fair compensation. 

Located in Houston, Texas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas. If you or someone you know has been a victim of date rape, call us for a free consultation to explore your next steps. 

Why Legal Representation Matters

Date rape cases are often complicated. Victims often face skepticism, stigma, and obstacles when pursuing justice within the criminal system. From proving a lack of consent to addressing personal attacks against their character, they often feel unsupported and isolated.  

Our primary objective is to take this burden off your shoulders and advocate for you on your behalf. Date rape is a violation of your personal and legal rights and you have the right to seek compensation for your pain and suffering, including compensation for but not limited to injuries, damages, associated medical bills, therapy costs, and lost wages.  

At Bradford N. Oesch, P.C., our team goes beyond representation in court. As a date rape survivor, it's important to have access to counseling, support systems, and other resources. We can help you connect with the networks that can help in your healing process.

Date Rape Laws in Texas

In Texas, date rape is classified as a form of sexual assault. Under Texas Penal Code §22.011, sexual assault occurs when someone intentionally or knowingly engages in sexual activity without the other party’s consent.  

Date rape often features complicating factors, such as an existing relationship between the parties or the involvement of drugs or alcohol. However, it is considered an act of violence under the law. In Texas, lack of consent can take various forms, including:

• The victim is unconscious, asleep, or otherwise unable to physically or verbally respond. 

• Consent was achieved through force, coercion, or threats, explicit or implied. 

• The victim was incapacitated, whether due to drugs, alcohol, or a disability that impaired their ability to consent. 

• The offender purposely impaired the victim by using drugs or alcohol without their knowledge. 

Criminal cases for date rape are often prosecuted aggressively in Texas. The penalties for these crimes often include prison time, parole, and legal registration as a sex offender. However, the criminal justice system does not compensate for the personal and financial damages a survivor may suffer. For this reason, many choose to pursue a civil case as well. 

Overview of Civil Cases for Date Rape

A civil case differs significantly from a criminal case. It focuses on holding the perpetrator (and sometimes other liable parties) financially accountable for the harm caused and operates under a different burden of proof.  

Civil litigation requires "a preponderance of the evidence." This means that it’s enough to prove something was more likely than not, unlike the rigid "beyond a reasonable doubt" standard that is commonly upheld in criminal court. 

Date rape victims may also be eligible to pursue civil claims under unique circumstances. For instance, our firm has successfully utilized homeowners' or renters’ insurance policies to help recover damages. This approach works on the premise that certain insurance policies cover injuries arising from the insured’s negligent or harmful acts.

How Our Firm Can Help

At Bradford N. Oesch, P.C., we follow a comprehensive and client-focused approach to help our clients pursue justice and move forward with their lives. Some of the ways our firm can help victims of date rape include:

1. Case evaluation: During our initial consultation, we will listen to your story, provide an honest assessment of your legal options, and discuss potential avenues for compensation.  

2. Evidence collection: It is difficult to relive painful memories. However, it's essential to prioritize gathering critical evidence that can strengthen your case. This can be in the form of witness statements, text messages, photos, or medical records.

3. Collaboration with experts: We often work with therapists, medical professionals, or private investigators to build strong, persuasive cases. 

4. Pursuit of full compensation: From negotiating settlements to litigating in court, we strive to deliver positive outcomes for our clients. 

We understand the courage it takes to speak out and we’re committed to making the process as stress-free and empowering as possible.  

Date Rape Attorney Serving Houston, Texas

At Bradford N. Oesch, P.C., we treat every client with compassion, attention, and care, and we strive to help you pursue closure on your case. Many of our cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay us anything unless we secure a recovery on your behalf.

Located in Houston, Texas, we serve clients throughout the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and move forward with the support you deserve.