Plano Sex Crime Lawyer

Being charged with a sex crime in Texas carries devastating consequences that extend far beyond potential prison time. Sex crime convictions result in mandatory registration as a sex offender, lifelong restrictions on where you can live and work, and irreparable damage to your reputation and relationships.

At Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, our experienced Plano sex crime defense attorneys understand the gravity of these accusations and provide aggressive representation while treating every client with dignity and respect.

Our firm also provides criminal defense lawyer in Plano for those accused of other serious offenses, ensuring every client receives the same level of skill and dedication.

Contact our office today at (972) 528-0478 for a confidential consultation.

Sex Crime Charges We Defend in Plano

Sex crimes encompass a broad range of offenses under Texas law, each carrying severe penalties and long-term consequences. Our legal team has successfully defended clients against all types of sex crime allegations throughout Plano and Collin County.

Internet Sex Crimes

Digital technology has created new categories of sex crimes that federal and state prosecutors aggressively pursue. These cases often involve complex digital forensics and constitutional search and seizure issues.

Common internet sex crimes include:

• Possession or distribution of child pornography: Under Texas Penal Code § 43.26, possessing child pornography is a third-degree felony punishable by 2-10 years in prison
  
  
• Online solicitation of a minor: Attempting to engage a minor in sexual conduct through electronic communication
  
  
• Sexting involving minors: Even consensual exchanges between teenagers can result in serious charges

🔍 Important: Many internet sex crime cases begin with undercover operations or digital device searches that may violate Fourth Amendment protections.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault under Texas Penal Code § 22.011 is defined as intentionally or knowingly causing sexual contact without consent. This second-degree felony carries 2-20 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration.

Defense strategies focus on:

• Consent: Establishing that the alleged victim consented to the activity
• Intoxication levels: Challenging claims about the victim’s capacity to consent
• False accusations: Investigating motives for fabricated allegations

Indecency with a Child

Texas Penal Code § 21.11 criminalizes sexual contact with or exposure to a child under 17. These cases often rely heavily on emotional testimony and can involve misinterpretation of innocent behavior.

Key distinctions include:

• Contact vs. exposure: Physical touching carries more severe penalties than exposure
• Age considerations: The child’s age significantly impacts sentencing ranges
• Intent requirements: Prosecutors must prove sexual gratification was the motive

Child Sex Crimes and Juvenile Charges

Cases involving minors often intersect with Child Protective Services (CPS) investigations and family court proceedings. Juvenile defendants may be eligible for record sealing, which can prevent lifelong consequences of youthful mistakes.

Our approach includes:

• Coordinating criminal defense with CPS proceedings
• Exploring diversion programs for juvenile offenders
• Protecting educational and career opportunities

Sexual Coercion

Sexual coercion involves using threats, intimidation, or manipulation to obtain sexual compliance. Texas law recognizes various forms of coercion beyond physical force.

Common scenarios include:

• Workplace sexual harassment escalating to coercion
• Relationship dynamics involving emotional manipulation
• Cases involving power imbalances

Prostitution and Solicitation

Law enforcement frequently conducts undercover operations targeting prostitution-related activities. These stings often raise entrapment defenses when officers induce criminal behavior that wouldn’t have occurred otherwise.

Defense considerations include:

• Whether police conduct induced the criminal activity
• Verifying recordings and communications
• Challenging illegal surveillance or search methods

Improper Relationship Between Educator and Student

Texas Education Code § 21.12 criminalizes sexual relationships between school employees and students. Convictions result in automatic teaching license revocation and career destruction.

These cases require careful attention to:

• Age of consent laws and statutory exceptions
• Timeline establishment for when relationships began
• Workplace policy violations vs. criminal conduct

Penalties for Sex Crimes in Plano, Texas

Texas imposes some of the harshest penalties in the nation for sex crimes. Understanding the potential consequences is essential for making informed decisions about your defense.

Collateral Consequences

Beyond prison time and fines, sex crime convictions create lasting impacts:

🏠 Housing Restrictions:

• Cannot live within 1,000 feet of schools or playgrounds
• Rental application rejections
• Homeowners association restrictions

💼 Employment Consequences:

• Background check failures
• Professional license revocation
• Banned from careers involving children

👥 Social Impact:

• Public sex offender registry listing
• Strained family relationships
• Community ostracism

Defense Strategies We Use

Every sex crime case requires a tailored defense strategy based on the specific facts and circumstances. Our experienced attorneys employ multiple approaches to protect your rights and freedom.

Challenging the Evidence

Forensic evidence is not infallible. We scrutinize every aspect of the prosecution’s evidence:

• Chain of custody issues: Were samples properly collected and stored?
• Laboratory contamination: DNA and biological evidence can be compromised
• Digital evidence authentication: Can prosecutors prove digital files are genuine?

Witness Credibility

Many sex crime cases rely heavily on witness testimony, particularly alleged victim statements. Our cross-examination strategies expose inconsistencies and bias:

• Prior inconsistent statements to police or family
• Motive to fabricate allegations
• Mental health issues affecting reliability
• Influence from third parties or leading questions

Consent Defense

When applicable and appropriate, consent can be a complete defense to certain sex crime charges. We carefully evaluate whether consent was freely given and legally valid:

• Age and capacity considerations
• Evidence of ongoing consensual relationship
• Communications before and after alleged incident
• Witness testimony supporting consensual activity

⚖️ Legal Note: Consent defenses require sensitive handling and thorough investigation to be effective.

Constitutional Violations

Your constitutional rights don’t disappear when facing serious charges. We aggressively challenge violations:

• Fourth Amendment: Illegal searches of homes, vehicles, or digital devices
• Fifth Amendment: Miranda rights violations during interrogation
• Sixth Amendment: Right to counsel interference
• Fourteenth Amendment: Due process violations

Why Choose Our Plano Sex Crime Defense Lawyers?

Facing sex crime charges requires experienced attorneys who understand both the legal complexities and the personal stakes involved. Our 35+ years of exclusive criminal defense experience provides the expertise your case demands.

Local Court Knowledge:

• Deep understanding of Plano and Collin County court procedures
• Established relationships with judges and prosecutors
• Knowledge of local law enforcement practices

Aggressive Defense Strategies:

• Pre-trial motion practice to suppress evidence
• Comprehensive investigation of allegations
• Expert witness consultations when needed

Client-Centered Approach:

• Confidential, judgment-free consultations
• Regular case updates and communication
• Personalized defense strategies for each case

Proven Track Record: We have successfully defended clients in serious sex crime cases throughout Collin County, including cases that resulted in dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea agreements.

What to Expect During the Legal Process

Understanding the criminal justice process helps you make informed decisions and reduces anxiety about your case’s progression.

Investigation and Arrest

Pre-Arrest Investigation typically includes:

• Search warrants for homes, vehicles, and electronic devices
• Interviews with alleged victims and witnesses
• Digital forensic examination of computers and phones
• Coordination with federal agencies when applicable

Important: Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.

Arraignment and Bail

Arraignments in Collin County typically occur at the Collin County Courthouse, located at 2100 Bloomdale Road, McKinney, TX 75071. The courthouse sits just off Highway 5, approximately 15 minutes north of Plano via Central Expressway (US-75).

🏛️ What to Expect at Your Arraignment:

• Parking: Free parking available in the courthouse lot; arrive 30 minutes early as security screening takes time
• Location: Sex crime cases are typically heard in District Courts 199, 366, 401, 416, or 469
• Process: You’ll appear before a judge who reads charges and sets bail conditions
• Duration: Most arraignments last 5-10 minutes, but preparation beforehand is crucial

Collin County bail considerations for sex crimes include:

• Bail amounts: Often range from $25,000-$100,000+ depending on charges
• Electronic monitoring: GPS ankle monitors frequently required ($300-500/month)
• No-contact orders: Automatic restraining orders against alleged victims
• Internet restrictions: Social media and dating app prohibitions

Plano detention occurs at Collin County Jail (4300 Community Avenue, McKinney, TX 75071), located behind the courthouse complex. Early representation is crucial for achieving reasonable bail terms and same-day release.

Navigating the Plano Court System

Understanding the local court landscape helps reduce anxiety and ensures proper case preparation. Sex crime cases in Plano fall under multiple jurisdictions depending on offense severity and location.

Plano Municipal Court

Address: 900 East 15th Street, Plano, TX 75074
Phone: (972) 941-2199
Handles: Minor sex-related offenses like indecent exposure (Class C misdemeanors)
Parking: Located near downtown Plano, street parking available
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 7:30 AM-4:30 PM; Tuesday: 7:30 AM-5:30 PM; Thursday: 8:30 AM-4:30 PM

Collin County District Courts

Primary Location: 2100 Bloomdale Road, McKinney, TX 75071
Felony Sex Crime Courts: Districts 199, 219, 296, 366, 380, 401, 416, 417, 429, 468, 469, 470, and 471 handle felony cases
Access: Take Highway 5 (Louisiana Street) exit from US-75, courthouse visible from highway

🚗 Parking Information:

• Free courthouse parking in administration building lot
• Additional parking available in downtown McKinney
• Allow extra time during morning rush (8:00-9:30 AM)

📋 Required Documents for Court:

• Photo identification (driver’s license or passport)
• Bond paperwork if released on bail
• Any court-issued summons or notices
• Attorney contact information

Nearby Landmarks and Resources

• Collin College McKinney Campus: 3452 Spur 399, McKinney (convenient for clients)
• McKinney Public Library: Research and meeting space at 101 E Louisiana St
• Historic Downtown McKinney: Multiple parking options and restaurants near courthouse

Comprehensive preparation distinguishes successful defenses:

• Expert witness consultations: Psychologists, digital forensics experts, medical professionals
• Psychological evaluations: When mental health issues are relevant
• Motion practice: Suppressing illegally obtained evidence
• Jury selection strategy: Identifying and removing biased potential jurors

Trial or Plea Negotiation

Every case requires careful risk-benefit analysis. Factors we consider include:

• Strength of prosecution evidence
• Likelihood of conviction at trial
• Potential sentencing ranges
• Collateral consequences of conviction
• Client’s personal circumstances and goals

We never pressure clients into plea agreements, but we ensure you understand all available options.

Contact a Plano Sex Crime Attorney Today

Time is critical in sex crime cases. Every day without proper legal representation increases the risk of making incriminating statements to police, evidence destruction, witness memories changing, and plea bargaining leverage diminishing.

Remember: Police investigations continue even when you think you’re cooperating. Protect yourself by exercising your right to counsel immediately.

Don’t let sex crime accusations destroy your life. Our experienced Plano sex crime defense attorneys are ready to fight for your rights, your reputation, and your future.

Call us now at (972) 528-0478 to schedule a confidential consultation with our dedicated criminal defense team. We’re available 24/7 for emergency situations and urgent legal matters.

Your freedom and future are too important to leave to chance. Contact Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?

Most sex crime convictions in Texas require sex offender registration. The duration and restrictions depend on the specific offense:

• 10-year registration: Certain lower-level offenses
• Lifetime registration: Violent sex crimes and offenses against children
• Annual verification: Required visits to law enforcement
• Community notification: Public registry listing with photo and address

Some convictions may qualify for deregistration after completing the minimum period without violations.

Can I be falsely accused of a sex crime?

False accusations occur more frequently than many realize. Common motivations include:

• Custody disputes and divorce proceedings
• Relationship revenge after breakups
• Mental health issues or attention-seeking behavior
• Misunderstood interactions or communications
• Pressure from family members or authorities

We thoroughly investigate all allegations and don’t simply accept accusers’ statements as fact.

Will my case be public?

Criminal charges become public record once filed, but we work to minimize publicity:

• Requesting sealed court documents when legally possible
• Avoiding unnecessary media attention
• Negotiating plea agreements that reduce public exposure
• Pursuing dismissals to prevent conviction records

Bond and Bail Resources

Collin County Approved Bail Bond Companies:

• A-Action Bail Bonds: (972) 562-7745 (5 minutes from courthouse)
• All County Bail Bonds: (972) 548-3131 (downtown McKinney location)
• Rocket Bail Bonds: (469) 742-4545 (24/7 service)

Payment Methods Accepted:

• Cash or certified funds at Collin County Clerk’s office
• Property bonds (requires Collin County real estate appraisal)
• Commercial bail bonds (typically 10% of total bail amount)

Bail Hearing Forms:

• Application for Writ of Habeas Corpus (for bond reduction requests)
• Conditions of Bond Agreement (must be signed before release)
• Electronic Monitoring Agreement (if GPS required)

Jail Release Timeline:

• Business hours (8 AM-5 PM): 2-4 hours after bond posted
• Evening/weekends: 4-8 hours due to limited processing staff
• Holidays: Extended delays possible; plan accordingly

What happens if I’m under investigation but not charged?

Being under investigation requires immediate legal representation. We can:

• Communicate with investigators on your behalf
• Prevent incriminating statements during interviews
• Challenge search warrants and evidence collection
• Sometimes resolve matters without formal charges

Never speak to police without an attorney present, even if you believe you’re innocent.

Can you get sex crime charges dismissed?

Yes, we’ve successfully obtained dismissals in sex crime cases through various legal strategies including constitutional challenges, insufficient evidence arguments, witness credibility issues, and procedural violations. Each case is unique, but experienced defense attorneys can identify dismissal opportunities that others might miss.