Sexual Assault Attorney in Houston, Texas
Practice Areas
- Personal Injury
- Sexual Assault
- Date Rape
- Car Accident
- 18-Wheeler Accidents
- Catastrophic Injury
- Premises Liability
In Texas, sexual assault is treated as a serious crime. It is defined as any type of unwanted sexual contact or behavior. If you have been a victim of sexual assault, it is important to seek help from a qualified attorney who is experienced in handling these types of delicate cases.
At Brad N. Oesch P.C., we understand the profound impact sexual assault has on survivors. Our goal is to help you reclaim your sense of justice and obtain compensation for the harm you've endured. While no settlement can undo the past, we are committed to alleviating some of the burden and providing a path toward healing.
We firmly believe that consent is non-negotiable and that survivors of sexual assault deserve the opportunity to seek justice and rebuild their lives. Located in Houston, Texas, we serve clients throughout the surrounding areas. Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation.
What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is a form of sexual violence that involves any type of unwanted sexual contact or behavior. In Texas, the law defines sexual assault as intentionally or knowingly causing penetration or contact with the genitals, anus, or breasts of another person without their consent.
It also includes acts where the victim is unable to give consent due to factors such as age, mental incapacity, or intoxication. Sexual assault can take many forms of non-consensual sexual acts, including but not limited to:
Rape: This includes any type of forced sexual intercourse, whether vaginal, anal, or oral.
Sexual touching or groping: This involves any unwanted and non-consensual touching of a person's intimate body parts.
Forced kissing or fondling: This includes being forced to engage in any type of kissing or touching without consent.
Sexual coercion: This occurs when someone uses threats, blackmail, manipulation, or other forms of pressure to force someone into a sexual act.
Statutory rape: This is when a person engages in sexual activity with someone who is below the legal age of consent. In Texas, the age of consent is 17 years old.
Incest: This involves any type of sexual activity between family members, including stepparents and stepchildren.
Indecent exposure: This involves exposing one's genitals or intimate body parts to another person without consent.
Sexual assault can happen to anyone regardless of gender, age, race, or background. It's important to note that consent is a crucial component in any sexual encounter. Without clear and voluntary consent from all parties involved, any sexual act is considered assault. If you have been a victim of sexual assault, it's essential to seek help from a qualified attorney who can guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.
Help for Sexual Assault Victims
Understanding Sexual Assault Laws in Texas
Sexual assault is a serious crime under Texas law. According to the Texas Penal Code, Section 22.011, sexual assault occurs when an individual intentionally or knowingly causes another person to engage in sexual activity without their consent. This includes force, coercion, or situations where the victim is incapable of consenting due to age, intoxication, unconsciousness, or mental disability.
Texas law also provides for civil remedies in addition to criminal prosecution. Survivors of sexual assault have the right to file a civil lawsuit to hold the perpetrator accountable for damages, including medical bills, lost wages, therapy costs, and pain and suffering.
At Brad N. Oesch P.C., our team is well-versed in both the criminal and civil aspects of Texas sexual assault cases, ensuring that we can provide comprehensive representation tailored to your specific needs. If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault, it is essential to understand that you have rights and legal options.
Seeking Justice for Sexual Assault Survivors
Survivors of sexual assault often face physical, emotional, and psychological trauma that can have long-lasting effects on their lives. Often, survivors may feel ashamed, afraid, or guilty about what happened to them. They may also fear retaliation from the perpetrator. It can be an incredibly difficult and emotional process, but it's important for survivors to know that they are not alone.
At Brad N. Oesch P.C., we understand the sensitive nature of these cases and are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal representation to survivors of sexual assault. We work tirelessly to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions and seek justice on behalf of our clients.
Texas Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault Cases
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, it's important to act quickly to pursue a legal claim. While victims may feel ashamed or afraid, Texas imposes a strict period during which victims can file a legal claim or take legal action. However, the statute of limitations for sexual assault cases varies depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
Adult survivors: Generally, adult survivors have 10 years from the date of the assault to file criminal charges.
Child survivors: Child survivors have until their 28th birthday to file criminal charges against their perpetrator.
Civil lawsuits: There is no time limit for filing a civil lawsuit for sexual assault in Texas. Survivors may choose to pursue civil remedies at any time after the incident occurred.
It's important to note that these statutes can be complicated and subject to change. Working with a knowledgeable attorney can help you better understand your rights and options in seeking justice for sexual assault.
Why Should You Hire a Sexual Assault Attorney?
The aftermath of a sexual assault can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. A sexual assault attorney can provide you with the guidance and support you need and can advocate fiercely on your behalf to make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
At Brad N. Oesch P.C., we take a survivor-centered approach to legal representation. We understand that trust is a crucial element in these cases, and we work hard to build strong, supportive relationships with our clients. Some of the ways we strive to build trust and honesty with our clients include:
Experience with sensitive cases: We have extensive experience handling complicated and deeply personal cases. We aim to approach each case with empathy, discretion, and a focus on achieving justice for our clients.
Knowledge of Texas laws: Sexual assault laws and statutes vary from state to state. Our deep knowledge of Texas laws enables us to provide the most effective legal representation possible for survivors within the state.
Results-driven representation: We are committed to helping our clients pursue the best possible outcomes for their cases, whether that means negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial.
Free consultations and no fees unless we win: We believe financial concerns should never prevent survivors from seeking justice. That’s why we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—you won’t pay anything unless we win your case.
Sexual Assault Attorney in Houston, Texas
At Brad N. Oesch P.C., we're dedicated to advocating for the rights of sexual assault survivors. We believe everyone has the right to live free from violence and harassment, and we're committed to helping our clients seek justice and hold perpetrators accountable.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault, reach out to us today for a free consultation. Our team is here to provide compassionate support, legal guidance, and aggressive representation. Located in Houston, Texas, we serve clients throughout the surrounding areas.
- Personal Injury
- Sexual Assault
- Date Rape
- Car Accident
- 18-Wheeler Accidents
- Catastrophic Injury
- Premises Liability