A statutory rape accusation in Austin can turn your life upside down overnight. You may be dealing with an arrest, an active investigation, or a panicked call from a loved one, and you know that prison time and sex offender registration are real possibilities. In this moment, you need clear information and a strong defender, not judgment.
At Lance Kennedy Law, we represent people facing age-based sex charges throughout Texas. Our statutory rape attorney has devoted a career to criminal law, and we understand how these cases are built, charged, and fought in this city. We treat every client with discretion and respect, and we work to protect both your rights and your long-term future.
People often use the phrase statutory rape to describe certain sex offenses involving someone under the age of consent. Texas statutes have specific offense titles and age ranges, and the details can be confusing. Many clients come to us unsure whether a relationship, online communication, or a single encounter can really lead to a felony case.
At a basic level, Texas law restricts sexual conduct with people below certain ages, and it treats age differently depending on the facts. Even if a younger person appeared mature, lied about age, or initiated contact, the law can still allow prosecutors to pursue charges. Allegations may arise from in-person relationships, social media, dating apps, or messages that someone later shares with parents or police.
Potential charges can carry serious consequences. Depending on the specific statute and the ages involved, you may be facing a felony that carries the possibility of years in prison and a requirement to register as a sex offender if you are convicted. Registration can affect where you live, where you work, and how you move through everyday life.
We carefully review how the investigation began and what evidence the state claims to have. That may include text messages, chat logs, social media content, location data, school records, and witness statements. Because our attorney has previously worked with investigative agencies, we know how this material is usually collected and where problems can emerge, such as incomplete records or questionable interview techniques.
Every case is different, and the consequences can vary widely. Part of our job is to explain which statutes the state is using, what range of punishment you may face, and what factors could increase or decrease your exposure. We work to give you a realistic picture of risk, then build a defense plan around the facts and your goals.
I appreciate his compassion and proactive strategy that got my son the best possible outcome.
“Lance took the time to talk to me explained the process and scenarios, he answered all my questions I felt completely confident he was the one we needed to represent my son.”
- Jenny B.
I highly recommend Lance for your legal needs.
“Lance Kennedy Law provided excellent service when I needed legal representation for a family member. Their communication was prompt, keeping me up to date on our case.”
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All in all, I’d give him a 10/10! Great job!
“He was very professional, answered all my questions in a timely matter. Even on the same day”
The hours and days after a statutory rape allegation in this area can have a major impact on your case. You may feel an urgent need to defend yourself to police, to the accuser, or to friends and family. Acting on that impulse without legal guidance can make things worse, even if you believe you have done nothing wrong.
The most important step is to protect your rights and avoid actions that can be misunderstood or misused later. We regularly help clients in this situation, and there are some general principles that often apply, regardless of the specific facts of your case.
Key steps to take as soon as possible:
Avoid discussing the facts of the case with police or investigators without a lawyer present, even if they say they just want to hear your side.
Do not contact the accuser, the accuser’s family, or potential witnesses about the allegation or ask others to pressure them.
Preserve possible evidence, such as text messages, emails, call logs, social media content, travel records, and work schedules, instead of deleting or changing them.
Follow any bond conditions, stay-away orders, or protective orders issued by judges in Travis County or surrounding courts, and ask us if you are unsure what those conditions mean.
Reach out to our firm promptly so we can review your situation, explain the process, and help you avoid missteps while the case is developing.
During an initial consultation, we listen to your concerns and gather background information. We discuss what stage the case is in, whether there is already an arrest or charge, and what to expect next. Our goal is to give you practical guidance from the start and to begin shaping a strategy that fits both the evidence and your priorities.
For many people, simply understanding the likely path of the case through courts in this area reduces some of the fear. We walk you through typical milestones, such as initial appearances, indictment decisions, and pretrial settings, and we discuss where there may be opportunities to address the case before it reaches trial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
Registration depends on the specific charge, the statute involved, and the outcome of your case. Some convictions carry mandatory registration, while others may not. We review the potential consequences with you at the beginning and as the case develops so you can make informed decisions.
Should I talk to police before hiring a lawyer?
In many situations, you should not discuss the facts of the case with police before speaking with a lawyer. Even honest explanations can be misunderstood or used against you. We review the status of the investigation and advise you on whether any communication is in your best interest.
How quickly can your firm get involved in my case?
We can usually begin reviewing your situation as soon as you contact us. In many cases, early involvement allows us to evaluate the investigation, advise you on interactions with law enforcement, and prepare for court settings. The sooner we speak, the more options we may have to address the case.
Will you keep my statutory rape case confidential?
We treat every statutory rape case with strict confidentiality. Allegations involving younger people are highly sensitive, and protecting your privacy is a priority. We do not judge our clients, and we work to handle communications and court appearances with as much discretion as the system allows.
Talk With A Defense Lawyer About Your Case
If you or someone you care about faces a statutory rape allegation in this city or elsewhere in Texas, you do not have to navigate the system alone. Speaking with a statutory rape lawyer can help you understand the charges, the potential consequences, and what can be done to protect your rights.
If you were arrested for DWI, our firm can help you build a strategic defense to reduce or dismiss the charges against you. Some common legal strategies include:
Unlawful traffic stops. Police must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over, such as speeding or swerving. If the DWI stop was unlawful, we can challenge the evidence against you and fight for dismissed or reduced charges.
Lack of probable cause. Law enforcement must have probable cause to arrest you for DWI. If the officer arrested you without sufficient evidence of intoxication, we can file a motion to suppress all evidence gathered after the arrest.
Improper field sobriety tests. Standardized tests like the walk-and-turn or one-leg stand are frequently used to establish probable cause, but are often subjective and influenced by outside factors. We challenge the administration and accuracy of FSTs to prove they were improperly conducted or inconclusive.
Inaccurate chemical test results. Breath and blood tests can be inaccurate due to improper calibration or operator error. Medical conditions like diabetes and acid reflux can also mimic intoxication and cause false positives. We can identify any testing errors to dismiss inadmissible evidence from your case.
If you were charged with DWI on I-610, your driver’s license may be suspended unless you request an administrative license revocation (ALR) hearing within 15 days of your arrest. ALR cases are separate civil proceedings handled by the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Failure to request a hearing within this timeframe can result in automatic license suspension, making it crucial to consult a knowledgeable DIW defense lawyer as soon as possible. Our lawyers can request an ALR hearing on your behalf and work tirelessly to restore your driving privileges.
No. While an aggravated DWI is not always a felony, it can elevate standard charges to a higher misdemeanor class or felony, depending on the specific aggravating factor involved.
We understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming and stressful. As dedicated federal criminal defense attorney with years of experience, I am committed to providing personalized legal counsel for your defense. My approach is tailored to meet your unique needs, ensuring that you have an ally to help get your life back.
1
Get a Free Case Review
Let’s discuss your case, your goals, and what strategies are right for you.
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Resolve Your Case
I will lead you every step of the way. Together, we will fight for a dismissal.
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Get Your Life Back
Work to get the best results possible so you can get your life back.
Choosing the right criminal defense attorney in Austin is an important decision. At Lance Kennedy Law, our criminal defense attorneys understand the weight of this choice and the trust you place in your legal representative. Our promise to you goes beyond just words, it’s a tangible commitment to excellence, transparency, and relentless advocacy as we navigate your case together.
