CRIMINAL PROCEDURE IN HOUSTON, TX

Crimes that incorporate the element of sex are taken extremely seriously by the state of Texas. Heavily stigmatized, these crimes will often leave someone who was charged with personal and professional repercussions. While the associated penalties can be harsh enough, there is nothing which can cause more difficulties to the life of the convicted than the mandatory registration as a sex offender. Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure §62.005, the state of Texas is required to maintain a “computerized central database” which will house all of the information for those who are registered as a sex offender with the states.

All of this information is made public, minus certain information (such as their social security number). Other information which will be made available to the general public include a current photograph of the offender, as well as their name, address, county of residence and zip code. For someone who has been convicted of a registerable offense, they will be required to register with the local law enforcement in whichever jurisdiction that they currently reside; in some cases, they will be required to register simply for visiting for an extended period of time. This information will also be made available to the Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Problems with Sex Offender Registration

While the intentions of sex offender registration laws are good, there have been concerns that these laws may cause more harm than the good they aim to create. In fact, in 2007 the Human Rights Watch reported that it may not do any good in fulfilling its mission of protecting children, but maybe a catalyst that could lead to harassment, ostracism, and violent actions against people who are listed. Currently, there are widespread issues with these registration laws which lead to people who are listed to deal with public and personal issues – which can include banishment and serious hindrances in their private life.

Many argue that current laws are too large in scope and not delicate enough in execution. By listing people who have been convicted of minor sex crimes – such as indecent exposure and consensual sex as teenagers – it can lead to undeserving people facing the weight of public opinion. It also does not leave the option for a rehabilitated offender to relieve themselves of the weight of dealing with such a penalty. Instead, someone who committed a crime over a decade ago maybe still listed – leaving the public to assume they are dangerous and liability and treating them as such. No amount of lawful behavior can change this.

Defending Against Charges of Sexual Offenses

If you have been criminally charged with a sex-related crime, you need an aggressive attorney who is willing to help protect your legal rights. At The Martinez Law Firm, they understand what’s on the line with sexual offenses and are prepared to put together a comprehensive and highly effective defense on your behalf. There are many defenses that can be utilized on your behalf. For example, our firm could present a defense strategy that the sexual assault or rape was lied about by the alleged victim. This could be done out of jealousy, an attempt to gain custody, or simply fear that it could ruin their reputation.

With over 15 years of experience, the criminal defense lawyers from our firm are prepared to go above and beyond in our efforts to protect your legal rights. Regardless of the details of your case, you can be confident knowing that you will have a heavyweight in your corner who is fully invested in the defense of your case. If you would like to learn more about our firm and how we can help in the crafting of your defense, you should not hesitate to contact us as soon as possible. We know what’s at stake and are ready to step up and fight for you.

Evidentiary Hearing & Trial

At the evidentiary (preliminary) hearing, the defendant’s attorney may be able to get certain evidence dismissed from the case. Many criminal cases fail to go to court and are dismissed at this phase of the criminal process. This is because, with certain pieces of evidence dismissed, the charges have little to rest on and are not strong enough to compel a case to trial. If a case does go to trial, this is one of the final stages of the criminal process, provided that there is no appeal. There is also the possibility of a hung jury or a mistrial.