April 9, 2025 | By Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy
Sexual Coercion in Texas
What is Sexual Coercion?
Sexual coercion involves obtaining sexual consent through pressure, threats, or manipulation, making it a serious sex crime in Texas.
While the #MeToo movement brought attention to many forms of sexual misconduct, sexual coercion often remains less discussed despite its severe legal consequences.
A healthy sexual relationship is defined by mutual, voluntary consent between both parties. While rape involves sexual activity without consent, sexual coercion falls in a dangerous middle ground where a victim may technically consent but does so under duress or threat.
Our Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers provide fierce defense for those accused of sexual coercion.
We understand that allegations alone can devastate your reputation and future, which is why we fight aggressively to protect your rights.
Legal Definition of Sexual Coercion in Texas
Under Texas Penal Code Section 21.18, sexual coercion became illegal in September 2017. Prosecutors must prove these specific elements to secure a conviction:
The defendant threatened (through coercion or extortion) to commit one of these offenses:
The defendant offered not to follow through with their threat if they received one of the following:
Sexually explicit photos or videos of the victim
Sexual acts with the victim
Other valuable benefits (such as money)
Common forms of sexual coercion include:
Blackmail: Using compromising information about a person to force compliance
Extortion: Using threats and force to obtain something of value
Penalties for Sexual Coercion in Texas
If you're facing sexual coercion charges, the potential consequences are severe:
Offense
Classification
Potential Sentence
Additional Consequences
First Offense
State Jail Felony
180 days to 2 years imprisonment
Permanent criminal record
Repeat Offense
Third-Degree Felony
2 to 20 years in prison
Enhanced penalties
The consequences extend far beyond incarceration. A felony conviction will follow you for life, affecting:
Employment opportunities
Housing applications
Loan qualifications
Professional licensing
Reputation in the community
Our Approach to Sexual Coercion Defense
At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we take a comprehensive approach to defending sexual coercion charges:
Thorough case analysis: We carefully examine every detail of the allegations against you
Evidence review: We scrutinize the prosecution's evidence for weaknesses or inconsistencies
Strategic defense planning: We develop customized defense strategies based on the specific facts of your case
Aggressive representation: We fight vigorously for your rights in court
Potential Defense Strategies
Depending on the circumstances of your case, we may pursue various defense strategies:
Proving the absence of threats or coercion
Demonstrating that communications were misinterpreted
Challenging the credibility of evidence or witnesses
Arguing that the alleged victim's claims are false or exaggerated
Exploring potential constitutional violations in the investigation
Real Case Results
Our firm has successfully defended numerous clients against sex crime allegations. While each case is unique, here are examples of our successful outcomes:
Indecent Exposure: Dismissed, Dallas County, M1234924
Indecent Exposure: Dismissed, Dallas County, M13-60248
Sexual Coercion Case Study
In September 2018, a Texas case demonstrated how sexual coercion charges can play out in court. A defendant was accused of obtaining a recording of a married man's sexual encounter and threatening to share it with the man's wife unless he paid $20,000.
The defendant ultimately received:
Four years of probation
A $750 fine
An order to repay the extorted money
This case illustrates how outcomes can vary significantly based on the specific circumstances and quality of legal representation.
Additional Resources
Understanding Sexual Coercion and Consent
What Does 'Sexual Coercion' Say About a Society? | NPR - Explores sexual coercion from a sociological perspective
It's time... to talk about consent | National Sexual Violence Resource Center - Educational material on establishing clear consent
Why Choose the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy?
When facing sexual coercion charges, the attorney you choose makes a critical difference. Here's why clients throughout Dallas County trust our firm:
Experience: With over 20 years defending sex crime cases, we understand the nuances of these sensitive allegations
Track record: Our extensive case results demonstrate our ability to secure favorable outcomes
Personal attention: Attorney Richard C. McConathy personally oversees your defense
Comprehensive knowledge: We stay current on all changes to Texas sex crime laws
Fierce advocacy: We approach every case with the determination to win
Testimonial
"Richard's team was tenacious. They told me they were gonna fight this to the end in court. I felt like he cared about me and my best interests and treated me like I was family. They were able to get the blood test dismissed and my case was dismissed. I can't thank Richard and his team enough." - Former Client
Contact Us for a Consultation
If you're facing sexual coercion charges anywhere in Texas, don't wait to get the defense you deserve.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Call (972) 597-2037 today to schedule a consultation with our experienced defense team.
We'll review your case, explain your options, and begin building a strategic defense to protect your rights and future.
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy is committed to providing aggressive, effective defense against sexual coercion allegations throughout Texas.
Including: