{"id":4644,"date":"2026-10-27T07:49:08","date_gmt":"2026-10-27T07:49:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crime-arrest-first-30-days-texas\/"},"modified":"2026-11-02T01:28:44","modified_gmt":"2026-11-02T01:28:44","slug":"online-sex-crime-arrest-first-30-days-texas","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crime-arrest-first-30-days-texas\/","title":{"rendered":"Texas Online Sex Crimes Defense: First 30 Days"},"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-80 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-4643\" alt=\"Digital forensics lab with multiple workstations, network analysis software on monitors, and chain-of-custody paperwork for seized devices.\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-multiple-workstations-network-ana-photo-8.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-multiple-workstations-network-ana-photo-8-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-multiple-workstations-network-ana-photo-8-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-multiple-workstations-network-ana-photo-8-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-multiple-workstations-network-ana-photo-8-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-multiple-workstations-network-ana-photo-8.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)\">Online Sex Crimes Defense | 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)\">Texas Online Sex Crimes Defense: What Happens in the First 30 Days<\/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 Frisco firm, defends people accused of online sex crimes across Texas. Here is what to expect early in a case, and how we can help you understand your options.<\/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 27, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>If you were arrested for an online sex crime in Texas, the first 30 days shape what comes next. The most useful steps are simple. Stay silent about the messages, keep every device and account intact, follow bond conditions exactly, and get a lawyer involved early. This guide explains each stage in plain language. It is written for the person arrested and for the family member trying to make sense of it.<\/p>\n<h2>What an Online Sex Crime Charge Means in Texas<\/h2>\n<p>An online solicitation charge in Texas usually alleges that an adult used the internet or a messaging app to reach a minor for sexual purposes. Texas <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.33.htm#33.021\">Penal Code \u00a7 33.021<\/a> covers online solicitation of a minor. Under that statute, a &#8220;minor&#8221; is someone younger than 17. It also covers someone the accused believes is younger than 17. That belief can be central to the case.<\/p>\n<p>Many of these cases start with a police sting. An officer or investigator poses as a teen or a parent online, and the chat leads to an arrest. That origin shapes the early review. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.8.htm#8.06\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 8.06<\/a>, entrapment is a defense when a law enforcement agent induces the conduct using persuasion or other means likely to cause persons to commit the offense. Giving someone an opportunity to offend does not count. Whether that defense fits depends on what the messages show.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.missingkids.org\/theissues\/onlineenticement\">National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children<\/a> describes online enticement and the grooming tactics often seen in these cases. That context helps explain why the State focuses on the exact words used.<\/p>\n<p>The arrest paperwork is the first document to read. It names the charge and the statute subsection, and the subsection sets the felony level. This plan fits the accused, a parent, a spouse, or another family member. For the full range of charges the firm handles, see the <a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/\">online sex crimes defense guide<\/a>.<\/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 someone you love was just arrested over online messages, the first weeks can feel overwhelming. You do not have to sort out the charges alone. Send us the details. 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=\"Hand resting 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>Days 1 to 3: What to Do and What to Avoid Right After Arrest<\/h2>\n<p>In the first three days, say clearly that you want a lawyer. Stop talking about the messages, and leave every device and account as it is.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Invoke your rights.<\/strong> Say you want to remain silent and want a lawyer. Then stop answering questions about the messages until your lawyer is present.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Delete nothing.<\/strong> That includes messages, photos, accounts, and app data. Deletion can look like hiding evidence and can create a new problem.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Do not contact the complaining person.<\/strong> Avoid their family and any witnesses too. Stay off social media, even to apologize.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Write notes for your lawyer only.<\/strong> Record the timeline, which device was used, and who else could access it.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Follow bond conditions exactly.<\/strong> Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.25.htm#25.07\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 25.07<\/a>, a person commits an offense only if, while violating a bond condition set in a family violence, sexual assault or abuse, indecent assault, stalking or trafficking case and related to the safety of a victim or the community, or while violating one of the protective or other court orders the statute lists, the person knowingly or intentionally does one of the acts the statute specifies. Examples include communicating in prohibited ways, going to or near places specifically described in the order or bond condition, possessing a firearm, or harming, threatening or interfering with a protected person&#8217;s pet. The statute excludes communication through the person&#8217;s attorney or a court-appointed person, but only for an order that prohibits any communication with the protected individual or a family or household member.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Detective questions can feel routine. They are not. For more on that choice, read whether to talk to detectives.<\/p>\n<h2>Days 4 to 10: Gather the Paperwork and Evidence<\/h2>\n<p>Within days four through ten, collect the core documents and build a complete device list. Your lawyer needs both to review the State&#8217;s case.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Collect the core papers.<\/strong> Get the arrest report, the probable cause affidavit, the bond papers, and any court setting notices. The affidavit explains the State&#8217;s reasons for the arrest.<\/li>\n<li><strong>List every device and account.<\/strong> Include phones, computers, tablets, gaming consoles, and cloud storage. Mark which items police took.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ask how the evidence gets reviewed.<\/strong> Chat logs, screenshots, undercover records, and forensic extraction reports all matter. A lawyer requests the State&#8217;s evidence and reviews it as it arrives.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Look for timeline gaps.<\/strong> Check when messages were sent, which account was logged in, and who had physical access to the device.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Texas Attorney General describes the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.texasattorneygeneral.gov\/grants\/types-grants\/internet-crimes-against-children-icac\">Internet Crimes Against Children task force program<\/a> as an effort that investigates online child exploitation, including sexual solicitation. Knowing which agency handled the investigation helps frame the records request.<\/p>\n<p>To start reviewing your paperwork, call (972) 424-1902.<\/p>\n<h2>Days 10 to 20: Penalties, Registration, and Collateral Consequences<\/h2>\n<p>Penalties depend on the exact subsection charged. A conviction can also bring sex offender registration duties that last for years.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Felony grade.<\/strong> Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.33.htm#33.021\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 33.021<\/a>, a subsection (b) offense is a third-degree felony. It becomes a second-degree felony if the minor is younger than 14 years of age or is an individual whom the actor believes to be younger than 14 years of age. Soliciting a minor to meet for sexual contact, sexual intercourse, or deviate sexual intercourse under subsection (c) is a second-degree felony.<\/li>\n<li><strong>School hours.<\/strong> The punishment rises to the next higher category if the offense happened during school hours. The accused must have known, or reasonably should have known, that the minor was enrolled.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Prison and fine range.<\/strong> For a third-degree felony, <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.34\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.34<\/a> allows two to 10 years in prison. It also allows a fine up to $10,000.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Registration.<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/CR\/htm\/CR.62.htm#62.001\">Texas Code of Criminal Procedure art. 62.001<\/a> lists a violation of <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.33.htm#33.021\">\u00a7 33.021<\/a> among offenses that can require registration.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Nondisclosure.<\/strong> Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/GV\/htm\/GV.411.htm#411.074\">Texas Government Code \u00a7 411.074<\/a>, a person may not be granted an order of nondisclosure, and is not entitled to petition for one, if any of the conditions listed in subsection (b) applies. The first is when the person requests the order for, or has previously been convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication community supervision for, any of these: an offense requiring registration as a sex offender under Chapter 62, Code of Criminal Procedure; an offense under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.25.htm#25.07\">Penal Code \u00a7 25.07<\/a> or certain other listed offenses; or any other offense involving family violence as defined by <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/FA\/htm\/FA.71.htm#71.004\">Family Code \u00a7 71.004<\/a>. The second is when the court makes an affirmative finding that the offense for which the order is requested involved family violence. Check this before any plea talk.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Other effects.<\/strong> Review jobs, licenses, housing, and custody with your lawyer. Each depends on the exact charge.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For how felony and county-level cases are handled locally, see felony online sex crime cases in Collin County.<\/p>\n<h2>Days 15 to 30: Reviewing Possible Defenses<\/h2>\n<p>The defense review in weeks three and four looks at who was chatting, what was said, and how police gathered the evidence.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Who was on the other end.<\/strong> The review asks whether the other person was an adult or an officer. It also asks whether the account belonged to the accused.<\/li>\n<li><strong>What the statute requires.<\/strong> Subsection (c) requires a knowing solicitation of a minor to meet, with intent for sexual contact. <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.33.htm#33.021\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 33.021<\/a> also lists defenses for subsection (c). Those include a marriage to the minor and a defense where the accused was not more than three years older than the minor and the minor consented. A meeting that never happened is not a defense.<\/li>\n<li>The statute covers a minor who is actually younger than 17, or whom the accused believes to be younger than 17, so what was believed about age matters. Lawyers examine what each message said about age.<\/li>\n<li>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.8.htm#8.06\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 8.06<\/a>, the question is whether a law enforcement agent induced the conduct using persuasion or other means likely to cause persons to commit the offense. Merely offering a chance does not count.<\/li>\n<li><strong>How evidence was collected.<\/strong> The review asks whether police followed the rules for searching, seizing, and extracting data from devices.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>No lawyer can predict or assure a particular outcome. Decisions about a plea, a trial setting, or motions are made with the client after this review.<\/p>\n<h2>How Barbieri Law Firm Approaches the First 30 Days<\/h2>\n<p>Barbieri Law Firm is an all-women criminal defense firm in Frisco, Texas. It defends professionals accused of sex crimes and assaultive offenses in Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth, and across Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Our lawyers are Heather Barbieri and Carrie Thomas.<\/p>\n<p>Heather Jean Barbieri, Board Certified, Criminal Law &#8212; Texas Board of Legal Specialization<\/p>\n<p>In the first 30 days, the firm&#8217;s work follows four steps:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Read the charging paperwork and the bond terms.<\/li>\n<li>Request and review the State&#8217;s evidence.<\/li>\n<li>Explain each option and its trade-offs.<\/li>\n<li>Represent you in court.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The firm also handles aggravated sexual assault, child sex crimes, aggravated assault, family violence, and theft defense for students and non-citizens.<\/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<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-contrast-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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<h2>Your Next Step: Free Initial Consultation<\/h2>\n<p>The first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue. Fee arrangements come up openly after that conversation.<\/p>\n<p>Bring these items to the meeting:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The arrest report, bond papers, and court notices.<\/li>\n<li>Your list of devices and accounts.<\/li>\n<li>Your written timeline notes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The consultation checklist guide gives the full list.<\/p>\n<p>If a family member was just arrested and the first weeks feel like a blur of court papers, you do not have to sort it out alone. Send your case details through our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">case-details form<\/a>, and we will review the charge and timeline with you.<\/p>\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\/close-up-of-an-ink-pad-fingerprint-card-and-paperwork-on-a-d-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a desk with an ink pad, fingerprint cards, and documents laid out for forensic review.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Do I have to answer police questions?<\/summary><p>You can say you want a lawyer and stop answering questions about the messages. Say it clearly.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Will police return my phone or computer?<\/summary><p>Devices may be held as evidence. Your lawyer can request return or review as the case moves forward.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I contact the person who made the report?<\/summary><p>Not if a bond condition or court order bars contact in a family violence, sexual assault or abuse, indecent assault, stalking, or trafficking case and related to the safety of a victim or the safety of the community. Even without an order, contact can create new problems. Even without an order, contact can create new problems.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Is sex offender registration automatic?<\/summary><p>Registration is not automatic in every case. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/CR\/htm\/CR.62.htm#62.001\">article 62.001(5) of the Code of Criminal Procedure<\/a>, a &#8216;reportable conviction or adjudication&#8217; is a conviction or adjudication, including a deferred adjudication, that, regardless of the pendency of an appeal, is a conviction for or an adjudication for or based on the offenses listed in that subdivision. That definition has conditions and does not cover every outcome, so our lawyers review how it applies to your specific charge and result, including an online solicitation charge under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.33.htm#33.021\">Penal Code \u00a7 33.021<\/a>.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a lawyer promise a result?<\/summary><p>No lawyer can predict or assure a particular outcome. The firm explains your options based on the evidence in your case.<\/p>\n<p>Attorney responsible for this site: Heather Barbieri, Barbieri Law Firm, Frisco, Texas.<\/p><\/details><\/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 our team approaches the first 30 days<\/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\">Review of the evidence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We review the messages, images, device data, warrants and reports, and explain what the State is relying on.<\/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\">Protecting your rights<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We advise you on communication with police, prosecutors and the other person, so that early statements do not harm your defense.<\/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--lightbulb\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Devices and accounts<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We address seized phones, computers and online accounts, and work to request return or review of your property as the case moves forward.<\/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--info\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Clear explanation of options<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain the charges, the possible paths in your case and the trade-offs of each, so you can make informed decisions.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\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\">Steps that help protect your case early<\/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\">Say that you want a lawyer<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell officers clearly that you want to speak with a lawyer before answering questions about messages or images.<\/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\">Keep everything<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not delete messages, accounts, files or apps. Deleting information can create new problems for your defense.<\/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\">Avoid contact with the other person<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not contact the person who made the report, directly or through friends or family, while your case is open.<\/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\">Write down what you remember<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note dates, places, devices and conversations while your memory is fresh, and share them only with your lawyer.<\/p><\/div><\/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\">Important: talk to a lawyer before you speak about the case<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Call before you answer questions or send anything about the allegations.<\/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-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\">Talk with Barbieri Law Firm about your case. Your first consultation is free, confidential and carries no obligation to continue.<\/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 Collin County Professionals<\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crime-bond-conditions-collin-county\/\">Bond Conditions After an Online Sex Crime Arrest in Collin County<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crime-bond-conditions-lawyer-texas\/\">Online Sex Crime Bond Conditions in Texas: Internet, Device and No-Contact Limits<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crime-case-review-collin-county\/\">Online Sex Crime Charges in Collin County: How Case Review Starts<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crime-case-review-lawyer-texas\/\">Online Sex Crime Case Review in Texas<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crime-case-timeline-collin-county\/\">How Long Does an Online Sex Crime Case Take in Collin County?<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What to do in the first 30 days after an online sex crime arrest in Texas, including bond rules, evidence to gather and penalties. Barbieri Law Firm, Frisco.<\/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 answer police questions?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"You can say you want a lawyer and stop answering questions about the messages. Say it clearly.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will police return my phone or computer?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Devices may be held as evidence. Your lawyer can request return or review as the case moves forward.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I contact the person who made the report?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Not if a bond condition or court order bars contact in a family violence, sexual assault or abuse, indecent assault, stalking, or trafficking case and related to the safety of a victim or the safety of the community. Even without an order, contact can create new problems. Even without an order, contact can create new problems.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is sex offender registration automatic?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Registration is not automatic in every case. Under article 62.001(5) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, a 'reportable conviction or adjudication' is a conviction or adjudication, including a deferred adjudication, that, regardless of the pendency of an appeal, is a conviction for or an adjudication for or based on the offenses listed in that subdivision. That definition has conditions and does not cover every outcome, so our lawyers review how it applies to your specific charge and result, including an online solicitation charge under Penal Code \u00a7 33.021.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can a lawyer promise a result?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No lawyer can predict or assure a particular outcome. The firm explains your options based on the evidence in your case. Attorney responsible for this site: Heather Barbieri, Barbieri Law Firm, Frisco, Texas.\"}}], \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/first-30-days-after-arrest\/#faq\", \"@type\": [\"Article\", \"FAQPage\"], \"image\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-multiple-workstations-network-ana-photo-8.jpg\"}, {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/first-30-days-after-arrest\/#service\", \"name\": \"Online Sex Crime Charge Defense: The First 30 Days After Arrest in Texas\", \"@type\": \"Service\", \"about\": [\"Online solicitation of a minor in Texas\", \"Online sex crime charges in Texas\", \"Bond conditions after arrest in Texas\", \"Sex offender registration in Texas\", \"Pretrial evidence and discovery in Texas criminal cases\"], \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Texas adults arrested or charged with an online sex crime, and their family members or partners researching the next steps\"}, \"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 metroplex, Texas\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}], \"description\": \"A day-by-day and week-by-week guide to the first 30 days after an arrest or charge for an online sex crime in Texas, including online solicitation of a minor. It covers what the charge means, what to do and avoid, bond conditions, evidence and paperwork, penalties and sex offender registration duties, collateral consequences, possible defenses, and how a criminal defense lawyer reviews the case early. It does not predict outcomes.\", \"serviceType\": \"Criminal defense for online sex crime charges\", \"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 Crimes Defense: First 30 Days\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crime-arrest-first-30-days-texas\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"What to do in the first 30 days after an online sex crime arrest in Texas, including bond rules, evidence to gather and penalties. Barbieri Law Firm, Frisco.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4644","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4644","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=4644"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4644\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6058,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4644\/revisions\/6058"}],"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=4644"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}