{"id":5389,"date":"2026-10-29T07:39:33","date_gmt":"2026-10-29T07:39:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/sexual-assault-defense-lawyer-collin-county\/"},"modified":"2026-10-29T07:39:41","modified_gmt":"2026-10-29T07:39:41","slug":"sexual-assault-defense-lawyer-collin-county","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/sexual-assault-defense-lawyer-collin-county\/","title":{"rendered":"Collin County Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer | Barbieri Law"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Collin County Sex Crimes Defense<\/p>

Defending Sexual Assault Charges in Collin County<\/h1>

Barbieri Law Firm is an all-women criminal defense firm in Frisco, Texas, led by Heather Barbieri. We review the evidence, explain your options and build a defense around the facts of your case.<\/p>

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By Heather Barbieri \u00b7 Published October 29, 2026<\/p>\n\n

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A sexual assault charge in Texas is serious, and the first decisions matter. This guide explains what the charge means, what can happen next, and how a sexual assault defense lawyer in Collin County, Texas reviews a case. It is written for the accused and for family members trying to make sense of a situation they did not choose.<\/p>\n

What a Sexual Assault Charge Means in Texas<\/h2>\n

Sexual assault is defined by the facts the State must prove. Under Texas law, a person commits the offense of sexual assault when they intentionally or knowingly cause penetration or contact without the other person’s consent. The statute also covers cases where the other person is unconscious or unaware, and cases involving a child.<\/p>\n

Aggravated sexual assault is the more serious charge. Under Texas law, an aggravated sexual assault charge may rest on the same lack-of-consent circumstances that apply to sexual assault. Examples include serious bodily injury, a deadly weapon, or a victim younger than 14. The charging document shows which facts the State claims.<\/p>\n

A conviction can also bring sex offender registration. Sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault count as sexually violent offenses when the person is 17 or older. Registration can last far beyond any sentence, so ask about it early.<\/p>\n\n

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If a sexual assault accusation has put you or someone you love in an unfamiliar situation, we can talk through the facts with you before any decision is made. Talk it through with our team — the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p>

Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div>
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What Penalties Can a Sexual Assault Charge Carry?<\/h2>\n

Sexual assault is generally a second-degree felony, and aggravated sexual assault is a first-degree felony. The exact charging language in a case is worth reviewing closely with a lawyer. Ask your lawyer to confirm which degree applies to your charge.<\/p>\n

A second-degree felony carries 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. A first-degree felony carries life or 5 to 99 years and a fine up to $10,000.<\/p>\n

Some aggravated cases carry a higher minimum. Under \u00a7 22.021(f)<\/a>, the minimum term rises to 25 years when the victim is younger than 10, or younger than 14 in certain listed manners.<\/p>\n

Registration is a separate consequence. Under art. 62.101<\/a>, the duty to register for a sexually violent offense generally lasts until death, with exceptions the statute lists. Parole rules add another layer. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice<\/a> explains parole voting rules and possible review delays for aggravated sexual assault convictions.<\/p>\n

What Our Sexual Assault Defense Covers<\/h2>\n

A sexual assault defense starts with the exact charge and the evidence behind it. Our work includes:<\/p>\n