Have you been charged with indecency with a child in the Dallas Fort Worth area? If so, you’ll want to call an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. After all, police officers sometimes make mistakes and unreliable witnesses may make it difficult to prove you’re not guilty if your liberty is on the line.

This is a serious accusation that can have devastating effects on your life. Contact a Fort Worth indecency with a child lawyer from Hoeller McLaughlin PLLC who has experience dealing with sexual offenses involving children.

What Does Indecency With a Child Mean?

Indecency with a child is defined as when an adult has sexual contact with a minor younger than seventeen years old. Offenses are ranked, depending on:

  • Previous convictions of this type of offense
  • The age of the victim
  • Evidence of serious bodily injury
  • Evidence of threats or intimidation

Sadly, some people that have been accused of indecency with a child don’t understand their charges. You don’t have to figure it out alone—you may need a lawyer to explain the facts and why you’re facing these charges. For example, under the law, contact doesn’t have to include penetration to be considered a crime. Other types of contact may be criminal offenses.

There are exceptions and other factors that can add to the confusion, so don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer to clear things up. You need to understand exactly what you’re being charged with before you step into a courtroom.

How to Protect Yourself During Legal Proceedings

Being accused of indecency with a child is emotionally trying, distressing, and overwhelming.  You may be tempted to prove your innocence on your own by conducting research online or on social networking sites. This is not advisable, as you can unintentionally create evidence that can be used against you in court.

It’s a good idea to avoid the following:

  • Social media
  • Conversations about what happened without your lawyer
  • Contacting the accuser’s family to try to explain

Being accused of indecency with a child is serious, and it’s not the time to try and handle things on your own.

It’s instead the time to seek out a strong defense with a lawyer’s help. Your lawyer can help you start gathering evidence now that can get your charges reduced or dismissed. That can help you avoid penalties that may haunt you for life if you don’t seek help.

Contact Your Indecency with a Child Lawyer in Fort Worth

You may have solid evidence to show that the accusations are false, thinking it’s a simple misunderstanding. But even though innocent people do sometimes get falsely accused, following the legal process is key. You may need a lawyer to prove your innocence.

A Fort Worth indecency with a child lawyer is familiar with these delicate types of cases, and they can pursue justice when you’re being investigated for such a serious criminal offense. Reach out to our compassionate lawyers at Hoeller McLaughlin PLLC by calling 817-334-7900 or completing our online form.