{"id":5926,"date":"2026-11-01T03:18:00","date_gmt":"2026-11-01T03:18:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/guides-indecency-with-a-child-charge-texas\/"},"modified":"2026-11-01T10:23:58","modified_gmt":"2026-11-01T10:23:58","slug":"guides-indecency-with-a-child-charge-texas","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/guides-indecency-with-a-child-charge-texas\/","title":{"rendered":"Indecency With a Child Charge Texas: Defense Options"},"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-5925\" alt=\"Secured evidence storage room with labeled containers and chain-of-custody forms at a child advocacy center.\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/secured-evidence-storage-room-with-labeled-containers-and-ch-photo.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/secured-evidence-storage-room-with-labeled-containers-and-ch-photo-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/secured-evidence-storage-room-with-labeled-containers-and-ch-photo-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/secured-evidence-storage-room-with-labeled-containers-and-ch-photo-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/secured-evidence-storage-room-with-labeled-containers-and-ch-photo-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/secured-evidence-storage-room-with-labeled-containers-and-ch-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 | Criminal Defense for Indecency With a Child<\/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)\">Facing an Indecency With a Child Charge? Start With a Clear Review of Your Options<\/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 indecency with a child in Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth and across Texas. We review the charging document, the evidence and the timeline, then explain the options available in your case.<\/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 31, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<h2>What Indecency With a Child Means Under Texas Law<\/h2>\n<p>An indecency with a child charge in Texas means the State accuses you of sexual touching or sexual exposure involving a child younger than 17. The offense is defined in <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.11\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.11<\/a>. It applies whether or not you knew the child&#8217;s age.<\/p>\n<p>The statute covers two kinds of conduct:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Sexual contact.<\/strong> Touching a child&#8217;s anus, breast, or genitals, or any part of a child&#8217;s body with your anus, breast, or genitals, including through clothing, with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Exposure.<\/strong> Exposing your genitals or anus while knowing the child is present, or causing the child to expose, with that same intent.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The two categories carry different felony grades. Sexual contact is a second-degree felony. Exposure is a third-degree felony.<\/p>\n<p>Cases like these can begin during a divorce, a custody fight, or a Child Protective Services (CPS) investigation. A statement made in a family dispute can open the file. Your charging document names the exact charge and degree, so read it closely with a lawyer.<\/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 you were accused of indecency with a child and your family is caught up in a custody or CPS case, you do not have to face it alone. Talk with us about your options. 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\/close-up-of-fingerprinting-during-a-criminal-investigation-w-photo-1.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a fingerprinting during a criminal investigation, with a handcuffed person nearby.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>What the State Must Prove<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The act.<\/strong> Prosecutors must show the specific touching or exposure the statute describes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The child&#8217;s age.<\/strong> The child must be younger than 17 at the time. Age is checked against records and testimony.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Intent.<\/strong> The act must be done with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Intent is a required element that the State must prove. Intent is a state of mind, so prosecutors usually try to prove it from context. They point to the conduct itself, the timing, what was said, and what happened before and after. We lay out that full context too. The same moment can look very different once the surrounding facts are on the table.<\/p>\n<h2>Defense Options We Examine<\/h2>\n<p>The right defense depends on the facts, and it is chosen after the evidence is gathered. Common lines of review include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Intent.<\/strong> Testing whether the State can prove sexual desire, using the full timeline and everything said and done.<\/li>\n<li><strong>What happened.<\/strong> Checking whether the contact or exposure occurred as described, including location, timing, and physical plausibility.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Credibility and motive.<\/strong> Examining how the accusation arose, including custody, divorce, support, or other family disputes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Spousal defense.<\/strong> It is an affirmative defense under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.11\">\u00a7 21.11<\/a> that the child was the defendant&#8217;s spouse at the time of the offense.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Age-based defense.<\/strong> The statute&#8217;s affirmative defense applies only when all its conditions are met. The defendant was not more than three years older than the victim and was of the opposite sex. No duress, force, or threat was used. At the time, the defendant either was not required to register for life or was not a person who had a reportable conviction under Chapter 62 for this offense.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Every condition in that list must be met, not most of them.<\/p>\n<h2>Evidence Review: Interviews, Statements, and Digital Records<\/h2>\n<p>The evidence in these cases may include what the child said, how it was recorded, and what other records show. Evidence reviewed in a case like this often includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Forensic or child advocacy interview recordings.<\/strong> We examine who asked the questions, how they were phrased, and whether the full interview was recorded.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The outcry statement.<\/strong> This is the child&#8217;s first account: to whom it was made, when, and in what setting. We test how it came out and whether it changed over time.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Digital records.<\/strong> Messages, device extractions, account records, and timestamps. In accusations involving online activity, digital records may be part of the evidence the State relies on.<\/li>\n<li><strong>CPS and family court files.<\/strong> These civil records can overlap with the criminal file and may contain earlier statements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Do not discuss the allegation with the child, the other parent, or investigators before you talk with counsel.<\/p>\n<h2>Penalties, Registration, and Family Court Effects<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Second-degree felony:<\/strong> confinement for 2 to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and an additional fine of up to $10,000 may be imposed (Tex. <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.33\">Penal Code \u00a7 12.33<\/a>).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Sex offender registration is a major concern in these cases. For a sexually violent offense, the duty to register generally ends when the person dies, subject to the exceptions in the statute (<a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/CR\/htm\/CR.62.htm#62.101\">art. 62.101<\/a>). Under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/CR\/htm\/CR.62.htm#62.101\">Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 62.101(a)(4)<\/a>, the duty to register for an offense under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.11\">Section 21.11(a)(2), Penal Code<\/a>, ends when the person dies if, before or after the person is convicted or adjudicated for that offense, the person receives or has received another reportable conviction or adjudication, other than an adjudication of delinquent conduct, for an offense or conduct that requires registration under this chapter. Other offenses generally end 10 years after the later of release, discharge, or dismissal.<\/p>\n<p>A criminal case can also affect custody, visitation, and CPS proceedings. These are separate proceedings, and we review them alongside the criminal charge.<\/p>\n<h2>How the Defense Process Works<\/h2>\n<p>A case moves in stages, and timing depends on the court&#8217;s schedule and the facts.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Free, confidential consultation.<\/strong> You share the charge, the timeline, and any papers. The first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Document review.<\/strong> We review the charging papers, bond conditions, protective orders, and any CPS requirements. We explain what to avoid doing right away.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Evidence gathering.<\/strong> We review interview recordings, digital records, and family court filings.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Options and reasons.<\/strong> We explain each available option and why it fits or does not fit your facts. You decide the plan with us.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ongoing communication.<\/strong> We keep you informed at each court setting and explain what comes next.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\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 Handles This Charge<\/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<p>Heather Jean Barbieri, Board Certified, Criminal Law &#8212; Texas Board of Legal Specialization, leads the firm&#8217;s defense work. Our team reviews the evidence, the interview records, the digital records, and the family court context. Then we explain your options in plain terms.<\/p>\n<p>No lawyer can predict how a case will end. What we can do is test every part of the accusation and explain each step.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Is indecency with a child the same as sexual assault of a child?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. This page addresses only the offense of indecency with a child, and each other offense has its own elements. Check the charging document for the exact statute.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I be charged after an online sting?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, an online-related accusation can lead to charges. It is tested by its elements, the digital evidence, and the timeline.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Will I have to register as a sex offender if I am charged?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Registration follows a conviction or adjudication, not a charge alone. The type of offense sets how long the duty lasts.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Should I speak to police or CPS without a lawyer?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Speak with counsel before any interview or written statement.<\/p><\/details><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\">You share the charge, the timeline, and your papers. We explain the process and what your next steps could be.<\/p><\/details>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/evidence-storage-area-with-secured-containers-and-chain-of-c-photo-11.jpg\" alt=\"Evidence storage area with secured containers and chain-of-custody paperwork at a child advocacy center\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Next Step: Talk Through Your Case<\/h2>\n<p>An accusation can put your freedom, your family, and your children&#8217;s contact in question at the same time. It is wise to speak with counsel before discussing the allegation with anyone. Call (972) 424-1902 or send your case details through our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">contact form<\/a>. We&#8217;ll review the charge with you and talk through what comes next. No lawyer can predict how a case will end.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Attorney responsible for this site: Heather Barbieri, Barbieri Law Firm, Frisco, Texas.<\/strong><\/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 Our Firm Approaches an Indecency With a Child 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 Charging Document<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We start by reading the exact statute and allegations in the charge, because each offense has its own elements and the details of the accusation matter.<\/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 Examine the Evidence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We look at statements, interviews, forensic reports, digital records and any other material the State has, and we identify what needs further investigation.<\/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 Your Options<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We walk you through the possible paths in your case in plain language, so you can make informed decisions with a clear understanding of what lies ahead.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">We Keep Your Matter Confidential<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your first conversation with us is confidential and carries no obligation to continue. What you share with us stays between you and our firm.<\/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\">Important: Be Careful Before You Speak to Anyone<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Speak with a lawyer before you answer questions about the allegation or sign any document.<\/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\">Your First Steps With Barbieri Law Firm<\/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\">1. Contact Our Team<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Call (972) 424-1902 or send us your case details. Our team will arrange a free, confidential initial consultation.<\/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\">2. Share Your Case Details<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bring any paperwork you have, including the charge, bond conditions and any notices. The more we know, the better we can evaluate the 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\">3. Review the Evidence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We review the allegations and the evidence in detail and tell you what we see, including gaps and questions that need answers.<\/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\">4. Decide on a Plan<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain your options and what each one would involve.<\/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\">Talk With Barbieri Law Firm About Your Indecency With a Child Charge. Your Free Consultation Is Confidential and Carries 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\">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\/\">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\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/\">Child Sex Crime Charges in Texas: A Guide for the Accused Man<\/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\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/guides-normal-medical-exam-child-sexual-abuse-charge-texas\/\">Can a Child Sex Abuse Allegation Proceed With a Normal Medical Exam in Texas?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/guides-plea-offer-child-sex-crime-texas\/\">Should I Accept a Plea Offer in a Texas Child Sex Crime Case?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/guides-police-sting-online-solicitation-minor-texas-defense\/\">Police Sting Online Solicitation of a Minor in Texas: What the Defense Reviews<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/guides-polygraph-child-sexual-abuse-accusation-texas\/\">Should I Take a Polygraph After a Child Sexual Abuse Accusation in Texas?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/guides-sexting-with-a-minor-charge-texas\/\">Sexting With a Minor Charge in Texas: What the Accused Should Know<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Facing an indecency with a child charge in Texas? Learn what Penal Code 21.11 covers, the penalties, registration rules, and how to start a free consultation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":962,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"","chg_jsonld":"[{\"name\": \"Indecency With a Child Charge Defense in Texas\", \"@type\": [\"Service\", \"FAQPage\"], \"about\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Criminal law\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Criminal_law\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Sexual assault\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sexual_assault\"}], \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"PeopleAudience\", \"audienceType\": \"Individuals arrested or accused of indecency with a child in Texas, including those involved in divorce, custody, or CPS matters\"}, \"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\": [{\"name\": \"Texas\", \"@type\": \"State\"}, {\"name\": \"Collin County, Texas\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}, {\"name\": \"Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, Texas\", \"@type\": \"Place\"}], \"inLanguage\": \"en-US\", \"description\": \"Page-level guide to defending an indecency with a child charge in Texas. It explains what Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.11 covers (sexual contact, exposure, and visual material involving a child under 17), what the State must prove, the defense options evaluated in these cases, how outcry statements, forensic interview recordings, and digital records are reviewed, how penalties and sex offender registration under Texas Chapter 62 may apply, and how the defense process works, ending with an invitation to a free, confidential consultation.\", \"serviceType\": \"Criminal defense for indecency with a child charges under Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.11\", \"mentions\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Assault\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Assault\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Sex offender registries in the United States\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sex_offender_registries_in_the_United_States\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Felony\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Felony\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Restraining order\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Restraining_order\"}], \"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\"], \"worksFor\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}}, \"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\"], \"worksFor\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}}, \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is indecency with a child the same as sexual assault of a child?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. This page addresses only the offense of indecency with a child, and each other offense has its own elements. Check the charging document for the exact statute.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I be charged after an online sting?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes, an online-related accusation can lead to charges. It is tested by its elements, the digital evidence, and the timeline.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will I have to register as a sex offender if I am charged?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Registration follows a conviction or adjudication, not a charge alone. The type of offense sets how long the duty lasts.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Should I speak to police or CPS without a lawyer?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. Speak with counsel before any interview or written statement.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What happens at the first meeting?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"You share the charge, the timeline, and your papers. We explain the process and what your next steps could be.\"}}]}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Guides Child Sex Crime Charges Texas\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Indecency With a Child Charge Texas: Defense Options\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/guides-child-sex-crime-charges-texas\/guides-indecency-with-a-child-charge-texas\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"Facing an indecency with a child charge in Texas? Learn what Penal Code 21.11 covers, the penalties, registration rules, and how to start a free consultation.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5926","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5926","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=5926"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5926\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5989,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5926\/revisions\/5989"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/962"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5926"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}