{"id":5064,"date":"2026-10-28T01:51:02","date_gmt":"2026-10-28T01:51:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-penal-code-33-021-online-solicitation-defense\/"},"modified":"2026-11-02T04:14:30","modified_gmt":"2026-11-02T04:14:30","slug":"online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-penal-code-33-021-online-solicitation-defense","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-penal-code-33-021-online-solicitation-defense\/","title":{"rendered":"Texas Online Solicitation of a Minor Defense Lawyer"},"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-3326\" alt=\"Digital forensics lab with computer workstations, network analysis software on monitors, and seized-device evidence logs.\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-computer-workstations-network-ana-photo-5.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-computer-workstations-network-ana-photo-5-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-computer-workstations-network-ana-photo-5-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-computer-workstations-network-ana-photo-5-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-computer-workstations-network-ana-photo-5-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/digital-forensics-lab-with-computer-workstations-network-ana-photo-5.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)\">Texas Criminal Defense | Frisco, Collin County &amp; Dallas-Fort Worth<\/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)\">Charged With Online Solicitation of a Minor? Speak With a Criminal Defense Lawyer Before You Respond<\/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 defends people accused of online sex crimes across Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth and Texas. We will review the messages, the timeline and the evidence, and explain your options clearly.<\/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 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><\/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\">About Barbieri Law Firm<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns 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=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">Frisco, Texas<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Home office<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">Collin County<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Dallas-Fort Worth and statewide<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--users chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">All-Women<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Criminal defense firm<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/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<h2>Online Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer<\/h2>\n<p>This page explains what the law covers, how these cases usually begin, and what an online solicitation of a minor charge defense lawyer reviews in Texas. It does not predict how any case will turn out.<\/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<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\/an-investigator-reviews-evidence-photos-at-a-desk-in-an-offi-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Investigator reviewing evidence photos at an office desk during a night investigation.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>What the Texas Online Solicitation Law Covers and Who It Affects<\/h2>\n<p>That belief language matters in many cases.<\/p>\n<p>Under Texas <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.33.htm#33.021\">Penal Code \u00a7 33.021(f)<\/a>, an offense under subsection (b) is a felony of the third degree, except that it is a felony of the second degree 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 at the time of the offense. An offense under subsection (c) is a felony of the second degree.<\/p>\n<p>It affects professionals who work with or around young people, and it affects the families who support them.<\/p>\n<h2>How These Cases Usually Begin<\/h2>\n<p>Investigators don&#8217;t always need a physical encounter to begin.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.missingkids.org\/theissues\/onlineenticement\">National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children<\/a> has a page on online enticement.<\/p>\n<p>A person may first learn of an investigation from a knock at the door, a phone call, a subpoena, or a request to come in for an interview.<\/p>\n<p>The gap between first contact and a charge can be short or long. There&#8217;s no typical timeline.<\/p>\n<p>Many people ask whether the other person had to be a real child. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.33.htm#33.021\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 33.021(a)(1)(B)<\/a>, &#8216;minor&#8217; includes an individual whom the actor believes to be younger than 17 years of age.<\/p>\n<h2>What a Defense Review Includes<\/h2>\n<p>A defense review looks at the full conversation, the records behind it, and how police gathered them. It starts with the complete record, not a few quoted lines.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Complete message history.<\/strong> Messages before and after the ones cited in the charge, not only excerpts.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Stated ages and profile details.<\/strong> Who was actually on the other end, and what the messages show about belief in age.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Device and account records.<\/strong> Timestamps, account details, and how police collected the data.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The charging papers.<\/strong> Whether the charge matches the messages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The state must prove each element, including intent. A review also tests whether a defense fits the facts. Texas law provides a defense to prosecution for soliciting a minor to meet if the actor was married to the minor, or was not more than three years older than the minor and the minor consented.<\/p>\n<p>Entrapment is also a defense. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.8.htm#8.06\">Penal Code \u00a7 8.06<\/a>, it applies when a law enforcement agent induced the conduct with persuasion or other means likely to cause the offense. Giving someone an opportunity to offend is not entrapment.<\/p>\n<p>Whether any defense applies depends on the facts.<\/p>\n<h2>Statements to Police and Early Decisions<\/h2>\n<p>Talk with a lawyer before you answer investigators&#8217; questions about the messages. Early choices can shape the rest of the case.<\/p>\n<p>You can speak with a lawyer before you answer questions. What you say in an interview can be used in the case, so pause before you respond. Investigators may call back, ask you to come in, or ask for your phone.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t delete messages, accounts, or apps on your own. Deleted material can change how the evidence looks and can create new questions. Ask a lawyer what to keep first.<\/p>\n<p>Write down every date on any paper you receive, including court and bond dates. Keep your notes for your lawyer only, not for coworkers or social media.<\/p>\n<h2>How Working With Barbieri Law Firm Works<\/h2>\n<p>The process runs in five steps, from first conversation through court settings. Each step builds on the one before.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>First consultation.<\/strong> You describe what happened and what paperwork you have. We offer a free first consultation &#8212; confidential, with no obligation to continue.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Intake.<\/strong> We gather the charging papers, bond or arrest information, and any messages or records you have.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Evidence review.<\/strong> We review the messages, device records, and the investigative file.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Options.<\/strong> We explain your options and the next court settings. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/CR\/htm\/CR.42A.htm#42A.102\">Code of Criminal Procedure art. 42A.102<\/a>, a judge may grant deferred adjudication in cases not on the statute&#8217;s exclusion list. Whether a judge grants it is up to the judge.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Representation.<\/strong> We keep you informed through hearings and court settings.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>How long a case takes depends on the county court calendar and the complexity of the evidence. No fixed timeline 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<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>Why Barbieri Law Firm for Professionals Facing This Charge<\/h2>\n<p>Barbieri Law Firm is an all-women criminal defense firm in Frisco, Texas, that defends professionals accused of sex crimes and assaultive offenses.<\/p>\n<p>Heather Jean Barbieri, Board Certified, Criminal Law &#8212; Texas Board of Legal Specialization.<\/p>\n<p>Our lawyers include Heather Barbieri and Carrie Thomas.<\/p>\n<p>The firm serves Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Texas. Its work covers online sex crimes, sex crimes, aggravated sexual assault, child sex crimes, aggravated assault, and family violence defense.<\/p>\n<h2>Questions People Ask About 33.021 Charges<\/h2>\n<p>Most early questions turn on the messages, the ages involved, and the investigation file.<\/p>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a chat alone lead to a charge?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether the state can prove each element depends on the facts.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Does the other person have to be a real minor?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. The statute also covers someone the actor believes is younger than 17.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Is it a defense that the meeting never happened?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.33.htm#33.021\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 33.021<\/a>, the meeting does not have to occur for an offense under subsection (c).<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Should I talk to a lawyer before a detective calls back?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, early review matters. An online solicitation of a minor charge defense lawyer can review the messages and the investigation file before any interview.<\/p><\/details>\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=\"Police officers reviewing evidence and taking notes during a criminal investigation\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Next Step: Tell Us What Happened<\/h2>\n<p>If you&#8217;re reading this after a message, an interview request, or a charge you didn&#8217;t expect, you may be trying to understand what comes next. You don&#8217;t have to figure it out alone.<\/p>\n<p>Call (972) 424-1902, send your case details through our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">contact page<\/a>, or schedule a consultation there.<\/p>\n<p>Attorney responsible for this site: Heather Jean 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 Your Case<\/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 Full Record<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We examine the messages, the accounts, the screenshots and any reports, so we understand exactly what the State has and what it must prove.<\/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\">We Explain the Charge<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We walk you through the elements of the offense, the possible penalties and the questions that matter in your specific situation.<\/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 Protect Your Rights<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We advise you on dealing with police, prosecutors and any digital evidence, so your next steps are informed and deliberate.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Confidential From the Start<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your first conversation with us is confidential. Share what you are comfortable sharing, and we will help you decide what comes next.<\/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 Reply, Pause<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Messages, deleted chats and social media posts can become evidence. Contacting the other person, the police or a prosecutor without advice can complicate your case. Consider speaking with a lawyer first.<\/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\">Questions We Hear Most<\/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\"><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a chat alone lead to a charge?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether the State can prove each element depends on the facts, including what was said, who said it and what the evidence shows. We review every detail with you.<\/p><\/details><\/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\"><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Does the other person have to be a real minor?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Texas law can reach conduct involving someone the accused believed was a minor, so the facts of the communication matter. We explain how this applies to your case.<\/p><\/details><\/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\"><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Does it matter that no meeting happened?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether a meeting occurred is one factor among many. We examine the communications and the surrounding circumstances to explain how they bear on the charge.<\/p><\/details><\/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\"><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What happens at the first meeting?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We listen to your account, review what you have, and explain the process and options in plain language. The first consultation is free, confidential and carries no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/details><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-secondary-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--secondary,#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 to Barbieri Law Firm About Your Case<\/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><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/\">Online Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer | Collin County &amp; Texas<\/a><\/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-crimes-defense-lawyer-police-interview-online-messages-texas\/\">Police Want to Interview Me About Online Messages in Texas: Defense Before Any Charge<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-professional-license-board-complaint-texas\/\">Online Sex Crime Charges for Licensed Professionals in Texas: Board Complaints and Your Career<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-sexual-assault-accusation-after-breakup-defense\/\">Sexual Assault Accusation After a Breakup: Texas Defense<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-sexual-assault-bond-conditions-defense\/\">Sexual Assault Bond Conditions: What a Texas Magistrate Can Order<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-sexual-assault-intoxicated-person-defense\/\">Sexual Assault of an Intoxicated Person: Texas Charge Defense<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Facing a Texas online solicitation of a minor charge under Penal Code 33.021? See how the law works and how a defense review begins. Call (972) 424-1902.<\/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":"[{\"name\": \"Online Solicitation of a Minor Defense under Texas Penal Code 33.021\", \"@type\": [\"Service\", \"FAQPage\"], \"about\": [{\"name\": \"Texas Penal Code Section 33.021, Online Solicitation of a Minor\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, {\"name\": \"Criminal defense of online sex crime charges\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}], \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Texas professionals and people who work with youth who have been contacted, investigated, or charged under Penal Code 33.021, and their spouses, parents, and family members\"}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"areaServed\": [\"Collin County, Texas\", \"Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas\", \"Texas\"], \"description\": \"An explainer and defense-review page covering Texas Penal Code 33.021, which addresses electronic communications with a minor, or with a person believed to be a minor, made with intent to induce sexual conduct or a meeting. The page covers how these cases typically begin, what a defense review of messages, device records, and the investigative file includes, early considerations when contacted by police, and frequently asked questions about the charge.\", \"serviceType\": \"Criminal defense for online solicitation of a minor charges\", \"termsOfService\": \"Initial consultation described on the page as free, confidential, and without obligation to continue.\", \"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\": \"Can a chat alone lead to a charge?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Whether the state can prove each element depends on the facts.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does the other person have to be a real minor?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. The statute also covers someone the actor believes is younger than 17.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is it a defense that the meeting never happened?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. Under Texas Penal Code \u00a7 33.021, the meeting does not have to occur for an offense under subsection (c).\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Should I talk to a lawyer before a detective calls back?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes, early review matters. An online solicitation of a minor charge defense lawyer can review the messages and the investigation file before any interview.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can a chat alone lead to a charge?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Whether the State can prove each element depends on the facts, including what was said, who said it and what the evidence shows. We review every detail with you.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does the other person have to be a real minor?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Texas law can reach conduct involving someone the accused believed was a minor, so the facts of the communication matter. We explain how this applies to your case.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does it matter that no meeting happened?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Whether a meeting occurred is one factor among many. We examine the communications and the surrounding circumstances to explain how they bear on the charge.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What happens at the first meeting?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"We listen to your account, review what you have, and explain the process and options in plain language. 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Call (972) 424-1902.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5064","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5064","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=5064"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5064\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6116,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5064\/revisions\/6116"}],"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=5064"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}