Have you been arrested for sexual assault?
The weight of sexual assault charges, the possibility of severe penalties, and the fear of being judged without proof can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your future. Moreover, a single accusation can tarnish your reputation, career, relationships, and freedom.
You are not alone in this fight; your decisions now are critical to protecting your rights and future. At the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak, we understand your challenges and anxieties.
Our firm is profoundly committed to helping individuals like you who are navigating the complexities of sexual assault cases. An experienced Houston sexual assault attorney can provide the guidance and advocacy you need during this critical time.
Do not take chances with your future. Call (832) 315-6283 or fill out our quick online form to schedule a confidential consultation with our criminal defense law firm.
Why Choose Our Sexual Assault Attorney in Houston?
When facing sexual assault charges, having the right legal representation can help keep your case moving toward a favorable outcome. At the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak, we offer unparalleled advocacy to protect your legal rights and future.
Decades of Experience in Sex Crimes and Criminal Defense
With over 18 years of experience, Attorney Nathaniel Pitoniak has a successful history of defending clients against false allegations of sexual assault, rape charges, and other sex crime cases. His extensive knowledge of criminal defense gives you a decisive advantage in your case.
Insights from a Former Prosecutor
Nathaniel Pitoniak’s background as a former prosecutor and Chief Prosecutor provides unique insights into how the opposition builds its case. This enables our legal team to anticipate and counter strategies effectively, giving you the upper hand in state or federal court.
Trial-Ready Defense Preparation
From day one, we approach every case meticulously, ensuring we’re ready to take your case to trial if needed. We aim to secure a favorable outcome through negotiation or courtroom advocacy.
A Client-First Philosophy
We understand how overwhelming these charges can be. That’s why we treat every client with dignity, professionalism, and respect. Our team remains by your side every step of the way, providing clear communication and compassionate support.
Protect Your Future Today
Don’t face this fight alone. Contact the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak to speak with an experienced Houston sexual assault lawyer who will work tirelessly to protect your rights and your future.
What is Sexual Assault in Texas?
Sexual assault is defined under Texas Penal Code section 22.011 It is generally a second-degree felony. The basic definition of the crime is the knowing or intentional:
- Penetration of the sexual organ or anus of another person without that person’s consent;
- Penetration without consent of the mouth of the other person by the sexual organ of the actor; or
- Causing a person’s sexual organ to contact or penetrate the sexual organ, the mouth, or the anus of any other person without consent.
This is the offense that most people identify as rape. The essence of the definition is the lack of consent of the other party. Consent is lacking where:
- Submission is compelled through violence, coercion, or physical force;
- Submission is compelled through threats of violence against that person or any other person, which the other person believes the actor has the ability to carry out;
- A defendant knows the other person is unconscious or is otherwise physically incapable of resisting;
- A defendant knows the other person is unable, due to a mental defect, to understand the nature of the act or to resist;
- A defendant knows the other person is unaware that he or she is being sexually assaulted;
- A defendant administers a substance without the other person’s knowledge, which impairs the ability of the alleged victim to understand or control their conduct. This is sometimes referred to as “date rape.”
- A public servant uses coercion to compel the other person to submit to the assault;
- A clergyman uses the other person’s emotional dependence to cause the other person to submit;
- A health care (or mental health care) provider uses a patient’s or former patient’s emotional dependence to cause the other person to submit;
- An employee of a nursing home, assisted living facility, mental health, or similar facility has sex with a resident of the facility.
Lack of consent includes more than force and violence. It covers many different situations where, because of mental issues, the introduction of a substance into the victim’s system, certain relationships that foster emotional dependence, or other issues, legal consent is lacking.
This type of assualt also includes statutory rape, where the age of the victim and/or the relative ages of the defendant and the victim form the basis for the charge. The age of consent in Texas is 17.
What Is Aggravated Sexual Assault?
Aggravated sexual assault is a serious criminal charge in Texas. This offense involves allegations of sexual assault paired with aggravating factors, such as:
- Inflicting serious bodily injury on the victim
- Making threats involving death, severe harm, or sex trafficking
- Using or brandishing a deadly weapon during the assault
- The victim is under the age of 14, elderly, or a person with disabilities
A conviction carries devastating consequences, including potential first-degree felony charges, with minimum sentences as harsh as 25 years in prison. Beyond incarceration, it can irreparably harm your reputation, relationships, and career prospects.
But how can you possibly fight such severe allegations? Who will ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected in the face of such daunting circumstances?
These cases are incredibly complex, requiring in-depth legal knowledge, strategic planning, and an understanding of how to challenge biases that may arise during the proceedings.
When faced with these challenges, it is crucial to secure a seasoned Houston sexual assault attorney. Nathaniel Pitoniak has the experience of a former prosecutor and the skill of a dedicated criminal defense attorney.
His experience navigating the intricacies of cases like yours makes him a trusted Houston sex crime lawyer who can uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments and build a compelling defense.
You don’t have to face this fight alone. Take control of your future by consulting an award-winning sexual assault lawyer in Houston today. Contact the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak to discuss your case and start building a defense tailored to your circumstances.
Penalties for Simple and Aggravated Sexual Assault
A conviction doesn’t just mean facing a potential first-degree or second-degree felony charge — it means navigating a challenging legal process that can permanently change your future. The penalties extend beyond a prison sentence, impacting every aspect of your personal and professional life.
What Are The Penalties For Sexual Assault Convictions in Texas?
Under Texas law, potential penalties for simple or aggravated sexual assault include but are not limited to:
- A prison sentence that can range from decades to life, depending on the details of the case.
- Lifetime registration as a sex offender, which can damage your reputation and restrict housing, employment, and opportunities.
- Significant financial fines that create an ongoing strain for years.
- A permanent criminal record, which may continue to affect your life long after the legal proceedings conclude.
For aggravated sex crimes, these penalties become even harsher. Cases involving minors, elderly victims, or the use of weapons can lead to minimum sentences of 25+ years in prison, mandatory sex offender registration, and more.
The Hidden Costs of Sex Crime Conviction in Texas
The impact of a conviction often stretches beyond the courtroom. You could experience emotional distress stemming from public scrutiny, damaged relationships, career setbacks, and a diminished quality of life.
Attempting to fight such a serious accusation without the help of an experienced criminal law firm can leave you vulnerable to these outcomes.
Why Hire an Experienced Lawyer for a Sexual Assault Case?
When facing these charges, the stakes are too high to leave your defense to chance. Each step of the legal process is complex, requiring the guidance of someone who understands how to address witness statements, medical evidence, and the prosecution’s case.
Without the help of an experienced Houston sexual assault lawyer, you risk severe penalties that could shape the rest of your life.
Nathaniel Pitoniak is a seasoned lawyer and former prosecutor in Houston. He offers a deep understanding of both sides of criminal defense cases and crafts personalized strategies to fight charges like false accusations, mistaken identity, or unfair evidentiary practices.
His experience in handling sex crimes ensures a comprehensive approach to defending your rights and your future.
Take Charge of Your Future
Dealing with sex crime charges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. The right legal representation can mean the difference between protecting your future and enduring the harshest consequences. Contact the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak today for a confidential consultation.
What Defenses Can a Lawyer Use to Defend Against Sexual Assault Allegations?
Facing sex crime allegations is an overwhelming experience that can quickly lead to fear and doubt about what steps to take next.
Public opinion often rushes to judgment, leaving the accused feeling isolated and powerless. Yet, it’s important to remember that you are innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The right legal defense can make all the difference in your case.
You Deserve a Strong Defense
Every case is unique, and an experienced Houston sexual assault attorney can craft a strategy tailored specifically to your situation. Often, the best defense involves exploring multiple angles, including challenging the evidence and testimony presented by the prosecution.
Strategic and effective defenses an attorney may use to defend your case could include:
- Questioning the Reliability of Evidence: Was the evidence properly collected, or are there inconsistencies in the case? Analyzing gaps or errors can challenge the prosecution’s foundation.
- Disputing the Victim’s Testimony: Memories can be unreliable, and motives for false accusations can exist. Your lawyer will thoroughly evaluate the alleged victim’s account of events.
- Establishing Mistaken Identity: Identifying the wrong person is more common than you think. A Houston sex crime lawyer can investigate whether there has been a case of misidentification.
- Highlighting False Accusations: Wrongful claims can result from emotional conflicts, misunderstandings, or ulterior motives. An experienced lawyer will uncover the truth.
- Examining Mental and Emotional Factors: The alleged victim’s mental or emotional state may have played a role in the accusations. Additionally, your knowledge—or lack thereof—about the situation can be a key factor.
The legal system can be incredibly complex regarding sensitive legal issues such as sexual assault. Without competent legal representation, it’s easy for your rights to be overlooked or for errors to go unchallenged.
Nathaniel Pitoniak, a seasoned Houston sex crimes lawyer, brings years of experience as a former prosecutor and criminal defense attorney. His deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom allows him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense tailored to your case.
Take the First Step Toward Defending Your Future
This is not the time to leave your future to chance. Every decision you make now is critical to achieving the best possible outcome in your case. Contact the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak today to discuss how we can assist you.
Steps to Take If Accused of a Sex Crime
False accusations against you can still change your life. You might be found innocent, but in the meantime, friends, family, and coworkers may look at you differently.
Many claims are false, but to defend yourself and avoid outcomes that may require you to register as a sex offender, a Houston sexual assault lawyer is almost always needed.
Unfortunately, clearing your name of alleged sex crimes will take time, and it’s in your best interest to remain patient throughout the process. For advice on managing this stressful time, contact an experienced sexual assault lawyer from The Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak.
The Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak | Houston Sexual Assault Lawyer Ready to Fight for Your Rights
Being accused of sexual abuse or assault is one of the most severe legal challenges you can face. These charges carry far-reaching consequences, including the potential for imprisonment, sex offender registration, and significant damage to your reputation, relationships, and future opportunities.
At the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak, we are deeply committed to standing by your side during this difficult time. With a compassionate yet aggressive approach, our team knows how to protect your rights while building a robust defense tailored to the unique challenges of your case.
Don’t face these charges alone. Contact the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak online or at (832) 315-6283 to work with an experienced Houston sexual assault lawyer ready to fight for your rights. Time is critical—take the first step to safeguard your future.
