Houston Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer

Sex Crime Attorneys Defending the Accused in Houston & Throughout Texas

An arrest for online solicitation of a minor can threaten your future. Thankfully, you are entitled to due process under the law, a Houston solicitation of a minor attorney, and the presumption of innocence. At The Law Offices of Jed Silverman, we are here to protect those rights, and provide you with a tough defense in the wake of online solicitation charges.

Attorney Jed Silverman is recognized throughout Texas for his criminal defense experience. Reach out online or call (713) 597-2221 to schedule a consultation.

What is Online Solicitation of a Minor?

Under Texas law, online solicitation of a minor refers to using electronic communication, such as social media platforms, text messaging, or websites, to intentionally send sexually explicit material to someone younger than 17 years old, or to someone the defendant believed to be younger than 17.

According to Sec. 33.021. "Online Solicitation of a Minor",

"Sexually explicit" means any communication, language, or material, including a photographic or video image, that relates to or describes sexual conduct, as defined by Section 43.25.

It is also a criminal offense to solicit a minor to meet up for the express purpose of engaging in sexual conduct. This includes emailing, texting, or chatting online with someone under the age of 17 with the intent of meeting to engage in sexual activity. Offenses under this section of the Texas Penal Code are felonies of the third degree, unless the minor was under the age of 14 at the time, in which case it would be increased to a felony of the second degree.

Penalties for Online Solicitation of a Minor in Texas

If you are convicted of online solicitation of a minor in Texas, the penalties can be severe. This offense is a third-degree felony, which can lead to:

• Prison Sentence: A conviction for online solicitation of a minor can result in a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years.
• Fines: The court may impose fines of up to $10,000.
• Sex Offender Registration: In many cases, individuals convicted of online solicitation of a minor must register as sex offenders, which can have lifelong consequences on your personal, professional, and social life.
• Probation: In some cases, the court may opt for probation instead of a prison sentence. However, probation still comes with strict conditions, including regular check-ins, monitoring, and compliance with certain rules.
• Loss of Professional Licenses: Depending on the nature of your job, a conviction for online solicitation of a minor may result in the loss of professional licenses or credentials, severely affecting your career prospects.

Because of the severe penalties associated with online solicitation of a minor charges, it is essential to seek the guidance of a Houston online solicitation of a minor attorney immediately.

Defense for Solicitation of a Minor Charges in TX

Defendants who are accused of luring a minor face a system that is stacked against them. Consider the following:

• You can be convicted even if no meeting actually occurred
• You can even be convicted if you never intended to meet with the minor

Fortunately, there are many ways that an experienced Houston solicitation of a minor lawyer can fight your charges:

• Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove that you intended to engage in illegal activities with a minor. If your communications were misunderstood or did not have sexual intent, this could serve as a strong defense.
• False Allegations: False accusations are not uncommon, especially in cases involving online communication. Your lawyer can investigate the possibility that the allegations were fabricated or that someone else was impersonating you online.
• Mistake of Age: In some cases, the defendant may not have known that the individual they were communicating with was a minor. If you believed the person was an adult and did not know their true age, this may be a viable defense.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement officers or undercover agents encouraged or provoked the online communication with the intent of luring you into committing a crime, the defense of entrapment may be applicable. 
• Inadequate Evidence: Your lawyer can challenge the sufficiency of the evidence, such as the credibility of witnesses or the accuracy of electronic communications.

Steps to Take if You Are Under Investigation for Online Solicitation of a Minor

If you are under investigation for online solicitation of a minor in Texas, taking immediate action is critical. Here are some steps you should take:

• Contact a Houston Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer: As soon as you become aware that you are under investigation, it is important to seek legal representation. An experienced attorney will guide you through the investigation process and ensure your rights are protected.
• Do Not Speak to Law Enforcement Without an Attorney: It is common for law enforcement to conduct interrogations or try to get individuals to speak freely during an investigation. However, anything you say could be used against you. Always have a lawyer present if you are being questioned by the authorities.
• Do Not Delete Evidence: While you may feel the urge to delete any incriminating messages or images, tampering with evidence is illegal and can worsen your case. It is crucial to preserve all evidence and have your attorney handle it.
• Gather Evidence of Your Innocence: If you have communications that could demonstrate your innocence or show that there was no intent to commit a crime, be sure to provide them to your lawyer.

Why Choose The Law Offices of Jed Silverman?

If you are facing a serious criminal charge, you have the right to legal representation. At The Law Offices of Jed Silverman, we have helped more than 3,000 clients faced with criminal charges. We’re ready to put this experience to work for your case. We encourage you to contact us today.

You Have Too Much to Lose. Call Today for a Consultation!

Every day you delay seeking legal help can hurt your defense case. At the Houston Law Offices of Jed Silverman, there is no judgment of your situation. We fight for your rights at every phase of your case, aggressively pursuing the best outcome possible for you.

Contact us online or call (713) 597-2221 at the first sign of trouble to schedule a free consultation with a Houston solicitation of a minor attorney who has already traveled down this road with numerous clients. You can reach us at any time of day or night, and we have multiple office locations throughout Texas. Se habla español.