Sex Crimes

Texas Sexual Assault and Internet Sex Crimes Defense

At The Matlock Law Firm, a criminal defense practice in Fort Worth, we represent clients facing charges of serious sex crimes under either state or federal law. Texas prosecutes such offenses as sexual assault, statutory rape, or violations of the sex offender registration rules, while the U.S. Attorney's Office charges cases involving possession of child pornography or certain Internet sex crimes involving solicitation of a minor online, especially cases that cross state lines. Contact Texas criminal defense attorney Shawn Matlock for a free consultation about your best options for confronting and overcoming sex crime allegations.

We advise and represent people accused of such sex offenses as the following:

• Sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault
• Date rape or acquaintance rape
• Sex with minors between 14 and 17 years old or with minors under age 14
• Capital charges of sex with a child under age 4
• Failure to register as a sex offender, including cases involving defendants whose convictions were adjudicated in other states
• Possession or production of child pornography
• Indecency or lewd conduct
• Online solicitation of a minor for sex

There are many effective ways to defend sexual assault charges, even when the government's case is strengthened by DNA evidence, confessions to the police, or strong eyewitness identification. In some cases, consent or lack of criminal intent can result in a verdict of not guilty or at least a negotiated plea to significantly reduced charges. In other cases, even though you are represented by private counsel, we can apply to the state for funding to support expert analysis of forensic evidence and a strong challenge to the testimony of government experts. In some cases, we can also plead and try to prove mental illness or diminished capacity to cast doubt on the government's case against you.

Whatever your strongest defense turns out to be, you can rely on Shawn Matlock to give you clear advice about the risks you face and your best opportunities for overcoming them. Resourcefulness, attention to detail, and thorough preparation are the hallmarks of this defense lawyer's client service. The goal is to protect you from the worst consequences of the charges through early and energetic engagement with the prosecution, and, when it advances your interests, a well-crafted defense at trial.

Our firm represents both adult and juvenile defendants at all stages of a sex crime prosecution. We also represent clients on appeal. To learn more about our ability to represent your interests effectively in a case of sexual assault or a federal Internet offense, contact The Matlock Law Firm in Fort Worth for a free consultation.