Round Rock Statutory Rape Lawyer

What Is Statutory Rape in Texas?

Texas does not use the term “statutory rape” in its criminal code, but the conduct is prosecuted under Sexual Assault of a Child when sexual contact or penetration occurs with a minor who cannot legally consent, even if the contact appeared “voluntary”.

Under Texas Penal Code § 22.011, sexual contact with a minor:

• Under 17 years old is considered Sexual Assault of a Child.
• Under 14 years old is considered Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, carrying significantly higher penalties.

Consent is not a defense in most statutory cases because the law treats minors as legally incapable of consent.

Several scenarios lead to statutory rape charges in Texas:

• Relationships involving age differences (teen + adult)
• “Romeo and Juliet” situations are misinterpreted by families or schools
• Online relationships involving minors
• Situations involving alcohol, parties, or runaway minors
• Allegations arising during custody disputes or school investigations

These cases are often driven by statements, digital evidence, and forensic interviews, rather than by physical evidence.

Penalties for Statutory Rape in Texas

Charges depend heavily on the age of the minor, age difference, and whether penetration, force, or threats were involved.

Below is a simplified breakdown:

Important: Texas has a narrow “Romeo & Juliet” age-difference exception, but it does not apply to all relationships. It is not a defense to the charge itself, but it may prevent sex offender registration if strict requirements are met.

Consequences of a Statutory Rape Conviction

Prison time is only part of the fallout. A conviction may result in:

• Mandatory sex offender registration — often for life
• Permanent criminal record — affecting housing, employment, and licensing
• Restrictions around minors — including your own children
• No-contact orders and protective orders
• Digital monitoring and internet restrictions
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Military service ineligibility
• Social and family consequences due to stigma

Even unfounded allegations can damage a person’s reputation, career, and family relationships.

Defenses Against Statutory Rape Charges

Every case is different. We develop tailored strategies that may include:

No Sexual Contact Occurred

Many allegations involve claims without physical evidence. We challenge statements, timelines, and witness accounts.

False Accusations

Divorce, custody disputes, disciplinary issues, peer pressure, or retaliation can lead minors to make false claims. We investigate digital records, social media, and motives.

Age Misrepresentation

Minors sometimes misrepresent their age online or in person. While not a full defense in Texas, it can influence prosecutorial discretion and sentencing strategy.

Insufficient Evidence

Weak forensic interviews, contradictory statements, or a lack of corroboration may undermine the prosecution’s case.

Challenging Forensic Interviews

Child interviews must follow strict protocols. Leading questions, suggestive interviewing, and parental influence can contaminate testimony.

Romeo & Juliet Exception

In specific teen relationship cases, we may argue to avoid registration or reduce charges.

Suppression of Illegally Obtained Evidence

Police almost always seize phones, laptops, or online records without proper warrants, violating the Fourth Amendment.

How We Can Help You

Our legal team is dedicated to providing proven, comprehensive defense strategies for those accused of statutory rape. Attorney Ryan H. Deck provides:

Immediate Legal Protection

We intervene early to prevent damaging statements, manage police contact, and protect your rights.

Discreet Case Handling

We protect privacy during sensitive cases involving schools, CPS, or family disputes.

Evidence-Focused Defense

We analyze digital records, witness interviews, forensic reports, and CPS documents for inconsistencies.

Negotiation & Trial Skills

We seek dismissals, no-bill outcomes, reduced charges, or non-registration agreements when possible.

Texas Board-Certified Criminal Defense

Ryan is among only a few attorneys in the entire state who are Texas Board-Certified in Criminal Law, demonstrating deep knowledge and trial experience.