{"id":4471,"date":"2026-10-27T00:30:18","date_gmt":"2026-10-27T00:30:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/pre-charge-online-sex-crime-investigation-defense\/"},"modified":"2026-11-02T08:23:53","modified_gmt":"2026-11-02T08:23:53","slug":"pre-charge-online-sex-crime-investigation-defense","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/pre-charge-online-sex-crime-investigation-defense\/","title":{"rendered":"Texas Online Sex Crime Investigation Lawyer Before Charges"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-60 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-4470\" alt=\"Computer workstations and monitors display network analysis software in a digital forensics lab.\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/computer-workstations-and-monitors-display-network-analysis-photo.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/computer-workstations-and-monitors-display-network-analysis-photo-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/computer-workstations-and-monitors-display-network-analysis-photo-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/computer-workstations-and-monitors-display-network-analysis-photo-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/computer-workstations-and-monitors-display-network-analysis-photo-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/computer-workstations-and-monitors-display-network-analysis-photo.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 825px) 825px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Frisco, Texas | Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth and Texas<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Under Investigation for an Online Sex Crime? Talk to a Lawyer Before Charges Are Filed<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Barbieri Law Firm, an all-women criminal defense firm in Frisco, represents people facing online sex crime investigations. We review the evidence, explain your options and stand with you from the first contact. Your initial consultation is free, confidential and comes with no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+19724241902\">Schedule a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">Schedule a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Heather Barbieri \u00b7 Published October 26, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>If you need an online sex crime investigation lawyer before charges in Texas, the short answer is this: a lawyer can advise you while the investigation is still open, before any arrest or charge. That advice often matters most when investigators first make contact. Barbieri Law Firm, an all-women criminal defense firm in Frisco, Texas, defends people accused of online sex crimes in Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth and across Texas. This guide explains how the pre-charge stage works so you can decide what to do next.<\/p>\n<h2>What Pre-Charge Online Sex Crime Defense Means and Who It Is For<\/h2>\n<p>Pre-charge defense is legal advice and representation during an investigation, before any charge, arrest or indictment. It is for people who know police or prosecutors are looking at them, and for people who suspect they may be.<\/p>\n<p>An investigation can continue for weeks or months with no charge filed. Many people learn about it only when an officer, detective or prosecutor makes first contact. That contact may concern online messages, images or an account.<\/p>\n<p>Two groups usually need this help. The first is the person being investigated. The second is a parent, spouse or family member trying to understand the next step and how to help without making things worse.<\/p>\n<p>Texas law covers several kinds of online conduct.<\/p>\n<p>Barbieri Law Firm defends online sex crimes, including online solicitation of a minor. General information helps you ask better questions. Your own facts decide what applies.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-surface-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--surface,#f2f3f5);color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast,#22252b);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If investigators have reached out about online messages or accounts, you don&#x27;t have to decide alone. We&#x27;re glad to talk with you in a free, confidential consultation. Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+19724241902\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/hand-resting-on-a-desk-beside-a-stack-of-documents-and-newsp-photo-2.jpg\" alt=\"A hand rests on a desk beside a stack of documents and newspaper clippings.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Decision Points: When Legal Advice Before Charges Matters Most<\/h2>\n<p>Legal advice matters most when investigators ask you to act, such as through an interview, a device search or a signed statement. Each of these moments can shape what happens next.<\/p>\n<p>Watch for these moments:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>An officer or detective asks for an interview, a phone call or a meeting about online activity.<\/li>\n<li>Investigators ask for a phone, computer, password or account access, or mention a search warrant.<\/li>\n<li>You receive a subpoena or request for account records or messages.<\/li>\n<li>You learn an arrest warrant or probable cause affidavit has been sought or signed.<\/li>\n<li>You are unsure whether to sign a statement or consent to a search.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Tips can reach investigators through a national reporting system. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.missingkids.org\/gethelpnow\/cybertipline\">National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children<\/a> says suspected online child exploitation can be reported to its CyberTipline, which refers tips to law enforcement for possible investigation. Texas task forces also investigate online child exploitation, according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.texasattorneygeneral.gov\/grants\/types-grants\/internet-crimes-against-children-icac\">Texas Attorney General<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Anything you say to investigators can become part of your case, so talking with a lawyer before you answer questions can help you understand your options. A lawyer can explain each option and its tradeoffs for your situation before you respond.<\/p>\n<h2>What a Pre-Charge Defense Covers<\/h2>\n<p>A pre-charge defense covers advice on contact with investigators, devices and accounts, and any affidavit or warrant you have seen. The work focuses on the facts you can check now.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Review of what you know about the allegation, including the timeline of online messages and who sent what.<\/li>\n<li>Advice on contact with law enforcement, including interviews, calls and visits.<\/li>\n<li>Review of device, account and password requests, and any warrant or consent form shown to you.<\/li>\n<li>Review of a probable cause affidavit when one exists, explaining what it alleges and what it shows on its face.<\/li>\n<li>Evaluation of potential charges under Texas law.<\/li>\n<li>Communication with investigators or the prosecutor, where appropriate.<\/li>\n<li>Preparation for possible arrest, bond and a first court appearance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>We review the evidence, including messages, account records and any stop or contact history, and explain your options. No lawyer can assure that charges will not be filed, or predict how an investigation will end.<\/p>\n<h2>How the Process Works, Step by Step<\/h2>\n<p>The process starts with a free consultation, followed by a case review and a plan for next steps. Here is what to expect.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Request a free consultation.<\/strong> The initial consultation is free, confidential and carries no obligation to continue.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Share the facts.<\/strong> Bring any notices, warrants, messages or documents you have. Write down your questions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Case review.<\/strong> The lawyer reviews the allegation and available evidence, such as contact history, device or account records and any affidavit, then explains your options.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Plan for communications.<\/strong> You get guidance on what to say and not say to investigators until you have had advice.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ongoing representation.<\/strong> If you hire the firm, you receive updates as the investigation moves forward.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Transition if charged.<\/strong> If charges are filed, the work moves to the defense, including arraignment, bond and early court dates in the county where the case is pending.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Timing depends on how the investigation develops, and general information cannot predict it.<\/p>\n<h2>Why Barbieri Law Firm for Pre-Charge Online Sex Crime Work<\/h2>\n<p>Barbieri Law Firm is an all-women criminal defense firm in Frisco, Texas. It defends people accused of sex crimes and assaultive offenses across Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth and Texas.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Heather Jean Barbieri, Board Certified, Criminal Law &#8212; Texas Board of Legal Specialization.<\/li>\n<li>Our lawyers include Heather Barbieri and Carrie Thomas. Our support staff handle scheduling and office operations.<\/li>\n<li>We review each matter on its facts and explain options in plain language.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Heather Barbieri is the founding attorney and the responsible lawyer for this page. Our approach is to explain the stage you are in, the decisions ahead and your options, so you can decide with the facts in view.<\/p>\n<h2>Common Questions Before Charges Are Filed<\/h2>\n<p>Most questions come down to your choices, the facts and what Texas law allows. Here are short answers to common questions.<\/p><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Do I have to talk to detectives?<\/summary><p>You have choices. A lawyer can explain the options and tradeoffs before you decide.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a lawyer stop an investigation or prevent charges?<\/summary><p>No lawyer can assure that result. A lawyer can review the evidence, communicate with investigators where appropriate and explain your options.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What if I am never charged?<\/summary><p>Investigations may end without charges or continue. A lawyer can advise on next steps in either case.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Does hiring a lawyer mean I am guilty?<\/summary><p>No. A lawyer protects the rights of the accused, and hiring counsel is separate from any question of guilt.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is a probable cause affidavit?<\/summary><p>It is the sworn document officers use to support an arrest or warrant. A lawyer can review what it alleges.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can charges affect custody or divorce?<\/summary><p>A lawyer can review how any charges may connect to custody or divorce questions in your situation.<\/p><\/details>\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-surface-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--surface,#f2f3f5);color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast,#22252b);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Not sure what your next step is?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><\/details><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+19724241902\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/two-officers-review-case-evidence-and-take-notes-during-an-i-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Officers reviewing evidence and taking notes in an investigation setting.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Not Sure What Your Next Step Is?<\/h2>\n<p>If investigators have contacted you, you can pause and get advice before you respond. Not having decided yet is common when a call, a device request or a message about an online investigation arrives.<\/p>\n<p>If you need an online sex crime investigation lawyer before charges in Texas, call (972) 424-1902 for a free, confidential consultation, or send your case details through our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">contact form<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Attorney responsible for this site: Heather Barbieri, Barbieri Law Firm, Frisco, Texas.<\/p>\n\n<\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>Barbieri Law Firm, 17 Cowboys Way, Suite 175, Frisco, TX 75034. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Results listed are not a guarantee or indication of future case results.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">How We Approach a Pre-Charge Investigation<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">We Review the Evidence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We examine the messages, images, accounts and devices involved, along with how investigators collected them, and explain what the evidence may and may not show.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">We Explain Your Options<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether or not you choose to speak with investigators, we walk you through the tradeoffs so you can decide with full information.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--chat\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">We Communicate Where Appropriate<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When it makes sense, we communicate with investigators on your behalf and keep you informed at every step.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--users\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our Team Is With You<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heather Barbieri and Carrie Thomas, along with our staff, give each client direct attention and clear answers to hard questions.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-surface-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--surface,#f2f3f5);color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast,#22252b);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-contrast-color has-text-color\">Before You Speak With Investigators<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Investigators may ask to talk, collect your phone or ask for access to your accounts. Do not delete messages, accounts or files, and do not assume an informal conversation is harmless. Speak with a lawyer first so you understand your choices.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+19724241902\">Call (972) 424-1902<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">Call (972) 424-1902<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Common Concerns in Online Sex Crime Investigations<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Devices and Accounts<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Investigators may seek access to phones, computers, cloud storage and social media. We help you understand what is being requested and why it matters.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Interviews With Investigators<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talking with police can have lasting consequences. We explain the process and help you decide how, or whether, to respond.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Questions About Charges<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We examine how the investigation is progressing and what the evidence shows, and we explain the possible next steps in your case.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Protecting Your Reputation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Work, school and family matters often feel urgent during an investigation. We focus on the legal steps that protect your position while you consider your options.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Speak With Barbieri Law Firm Before Charges Are Filed. Your Free Consultation Is Confidential and Comes With No Obligation.<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+19724241902\">Schedule a Free Consultation or Call (972) 424-1902<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">Schedule a Free Consultation or Call (972) 424-1902<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Online Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer | Collin County &amp; Texas<\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li>Police Want to Interview Me About Online Messages: Pre-Charge Defense in Texas<\/li><li>What Is in a Probable Cause Affidavit for an Online Sex Crime in Texas?<\/li><li>Publish Intimate Visual Material Texas<\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/return-seized-phone-computer-online-sex-crime-texas\/\">Getting Phone and Computer Back After an Online Sex Crime Seizure in Texas<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/revenge-porn-charges-defense-lawyer-texas\/\">Revenge Porn Charges in Texas: Defense When Intimate Images Are Shared Online<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Talk to a Texas defense lawyer before charges in an online sex crime investigation. Learn your decision points. Free, confidential first consultation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":19,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"","chg_jsonld":"[{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Heather Barbieri\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/attorneys\/heather-barbieri\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Founding Attorney, Board Certified in Criminal Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.texasbar.com\/AM\/Template.cfm?Section=Update_My_Profile&Template=\/CustomSource\/AttorneySearch\/MainProfileView.cfm&CFID=16102400&CFTOKEN=de0a8b038ec3c7b5-2AB4B1CB-5056-9551-D4D5BC06D0A3DEE5\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/heather-barbieri-3880184\", \"https:\/\/www.avvo.com\/attorneys\/75034-tx-heather-barbieri-1771243.html\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Carrie Thomas\", \"jobTitle\": \"Managing Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.texasbar.com\/AM\/Template.cfm?Section=Update_My_Profile&Template=\/CustomSource\/AttorneySearch\/MainProfileView.cfm&CFID=16102400&CFTOKEN=de0a8b038ec3c7b5-2AB4B1CB-5056-9551-D4D5BC06D0A3DEE5\"]}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Do I have to talk to detectives?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"You have choices. A lawyer can explain the options and tradeoffs before you decide.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can a lawyer stop an investigation or prevent charges?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No lawyer can assure that result. A lawyer can review the evidence, communicate with investigators where appropriate and explain your options.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What if I am never charged?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Investigations may end without charges or continue. A lawyer can advise on next steps in either case.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does hiring a lawyer mean I am guilty?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. A lawyer protects the rights of the accused, and hiring counsel is separate from any question of guilt.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is a probable cause affidavit?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"It is the sworn document officers use to support an arrest or warrant. A lawyer can review what it alleges.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can charges affect custody or divorce?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A lawyer can review how any charges may connect to custody or divorce questions in your situation.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Not sure what your next step is?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Talk it through with our team -- the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.\"}}], \"@type\": [\"Article\", \"FAQPage\"], \"image\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/computer-workstations-and-monitors-display-network-analysis-photo.jpg\"}, {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#webpage-pre-charge-online-sex-crime\", \"name\": \"Texas Online Sex Crime Investigation Lawyer Before Charges\", \"@type\": \"WebPage\", \"about\": {\"name\": \"Pre-charge defense in Texas online sex crime investigations\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}, \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Adults in Texas under investigation for online sex-related conduct, or their family members, who have not yet been charged\"}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}, \"inLanguage\": \"en-US\", \"mainEntity\": {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#service-pre-charge-online-sex-crime-defense\"}, \"description\": \"General guide to the pre-charge stage of a Texas online sex crime investigation: decision points where legal advice matters, what a criminal defense lawyer can and cannot do before charges are filed, the step-by-step process, and how to request a free, confidential initial consultation.\", \"isAccessibleForFree\": true, \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\"}, {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#service-pre-charge-online-sex-crime-defense\", \"name\": \"Pre-Charge Criminal Defense for Online Sex Crime Investigations in Texas\", \"@type\": \"Service\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Adults under investigation for online sex-related conduct in Texas who have not been charged\"}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}, \"areaServed\": [{\"name\": \"Texas\", \"@type\": \"State\"}, {\"name\": \"Collin County, Texas\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}, {\"name\": \"Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area\", \"@type\": \"Place\"}], \"description\": \"Legal advice and representation for people under investigation for online sex-related offenses under the Texas Penal Code before any arrest, charge, or indictment, including communications with investigators, review of device or account requests and warrants, review of probable cause affidavits, and preparation for possible arrest, bond, and first court appearance.\", \"serviceType\": \"Criminal defense during pre-charge investigation\", \"availableChannel\": {\"@type\": \"ServiceChannel\", \"serviceCategory\": \"Free initial consultation, confidential, no obligation to continue\"}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\"}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Online Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Texas Online Sex Crime Investigation Lawyer Before Charges\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/pre-charge-online-sex-crime-investigation-defense\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"Talk to a Texas defense lawyer before charges in an online sex crime investigation. Learn your decision points. Free, confidential first consultation.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4471","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4471","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4471"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4471\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6246,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4471\/revisions\/6246"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4471"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}