{"id":6112,"date":"2026-11-02T04:14:16","date_gmt":"2026-11-02T04:14:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-sexual-assault-accusation-after-breakup-defense\/"},"modified":"2026-11-02T07:22:04","modified_gmt":"2026-11-02T07:22:04","slug":"online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-sexual-assault-accusation-after-breakup-defense","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-sexual-assault-accusation-after-breakup-defense\/","title":{"rendered":"Accused of Sexual Assault After a Breakup? Texas 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-70 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-6111\" alt=\"Interior of a police evidence facility with labeled storage shelves and documentation systems.\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/interior-of-a-police-evidence-facility-with-labeled-storage-photo-3.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/interior-of-a-police-evidence-facility-with-labeled-storage-photo-3-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/interior-of-a-police-evidence-facility-with-labeled-storage-photo-3-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/interior-of-a-police-evidence-facility-with-labeled-storage-photo-3-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/interior-of-a-police-evidence-facility-with-labeled-storage-photo-3-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/interior-of-a-police-evidence-facility-with-labeled-storage-photo-3.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)\">Sex Crimes Defense | Frisco, 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)\">Accused After a Breakup? Speak Confidentially With a Texas Defense Lawyer<\/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 sex crimes and assaultive offenses in Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth and across Texas. Your first consultation is free, confidential and comes with no obligation to continue.<\/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\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--check chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">Free<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Confidential first consultation with no obligation to continue<\/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 based in Frisco, Texas<\/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\">Texas-wide<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Serving Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth and Texas<\/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 November 1, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<h2>Your Phone Rang, and the Accusation Came From Someone You Once Trusted<\/h2>\n<p>If you are accused of sexual assault after a breakup, speak with a Texas lawyer before you say anything to police.<\/p>\n<p>A detective&#8217;s call, a protective order served at home or a warrant you did not expect can hit hard. When the accusation comes from someone who was once close to you, the shock runs deeper. You may be thinking about your marriage, your children and the colleagues who could hear about this first.<\/p>\n<p>This page explains what the charge means under Texas law, what a defense looks at, and the questions you are likely asking. It does not predict how your case will end, because no lawyer can predict or control that result.<\/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 a detective has called or a protective order was served at home, you do not have to face it alone; we can talk through your options in a free, confidential first consultation. Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+19724241902\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/two-officers-review-case-evidence-and-take-notes-during-an-i-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Police officers review evidence and take notes during an investigation.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>What a Sexual Assault Accusation After a Breakup Means Under Texas Law<\/h2>\n<p>Sexual assault turns on consent, not on the relationship you had before. Texas law lists the situations in which an act is without consent. These include force, violence or coercion, threats the other person believes you can carry out, and a person who is unconscious or physically unable to resist.<\/p>\n<p>Aggravated sexual assault requires an added element, such as serious bodily injury, a deadly weapon or a victim younger than 14. It is a first-degree felony.<\/p>\n<p>Each incident is judged on its own facts and evidence.<\/p>\n<p>A complaint can come long after the events. A person found guilty of an offense under the Texas Penal Code is punished under the Penal Code&#8217;s punishment chapter and the Code of Criminal Procedure (<a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.01\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.01<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>A protective order is a separate court proceeding from a criminal charge. Before issuing one, the court must find whether there are reasonable grounds to believe the applicant is a victim of a listed offense (<a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/CR\/htm\/CR.7B.htm#7B.003\">Texas Code of Criminal Procedure art. 7B.003<\/a>).<\/p>\n<h2>What a Defense Looks at in a Breakup-Related Case<\/h2>\n<p>A defense starts with the record of what was said and done before, during and after the relationship ended. That record, and the timeline it creates, is where a careful review begins.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Texts, emails, social-media posts and call logs from every stage of the relationship.<\/li>\n<li>A timeline built from calendars, travel records and location data, where that information exists.<\/li>\n<li>The accuser&#8217;s earlier statements to police, friends, family or a court, and how they compare over time.<\/li>\n<li>Medical, forensic or DNA results, and what they do and do not show.<\/li>\n<li>Your own messages to the accuser, read in full context.<\/li>\n<li>The protective order file and how it fits with the criminal investigation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Answering Your Biggest Fears: License, Job, Registration and Family<\/h2>\n<p>Your criminal case and your career run on separate tracks, but a conviction can affect both. Here is how each concern connects to the case.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>License and job:<\/strong> Licensing boards and employers set their own rules. Your lawyer can review what you must disclose and when, based on your license and the stage of the case.<\/li>\n<li>Registration rules sit in Chapter 62. Early decisions in the case can shape what follows.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Arrest at work:<\/strong> Your lawyer can coordinate contact with police and arrangements for any arrest, so these steps are planned rather than sprung on you at work.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Family:<\/strong> Anything you say to a spouse, children or colleagues can be repeated and end up in the case file. Keep case details with your lawyer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>No lawyer can predict or control the result. The defense focuses on protecting your rights and building an accurate account of the facts.<\/p>\n<h2>What to Do Before You Speak to Police or the Accuser<\/h2>\n<p>Do not talk to police, sign papers or contact the accuser until a Texas lawyer has reviewed your situation.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Do not give a statement, sign documents or consent to a search of your phone or home.<\/li>\n<li>Do not contact the accuser. Under Texas <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.25.htm#25.07\">Penal Code \u00a7 25.07<\/a>, a person who knowingly or intentionally communicates with a protected person in violation of a protective order or bond condition can commit a separate offense in these ways: directly with the protected person or a family or household member in a threatening or harassing manner; through a threat made through another person; or in any manner if the order prohibits any communication.<\/li>\n<li>Keep every message, photo, calendar entry and account. Do not delete anything.<\/li>\n<li>Write a timeline for your lawyer only, from memory, while it is fresh.<\/li>\n<li>Tell your lawyer whether you face a warrant, an arrest or only a call from a detective, because the next steps differ.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Replies meant to explain or apologize can be read later as part of the case, so hold them until counsel reviews them.<\/p>\n<h2>How Your Case Typically Moves, Step by Step<\/h2>\n<p>The process usually moves from a first consultation to evidence review, contact with police or prosecutors, the charging stage and then your decisions.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>First consultation:<\/strong> We hear the facts, review your paperwork and identify your deadlines.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Evidence review:<\/strong> We review the police report, any protective order, the messages and the timeline, and identify what is missing.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Police and prosecutor contact:<\/strong> We handle communication, so no statement is made before review.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Charging and investigation:<\/strong> The timing depends on the investigation. We explain what each stage means for your license, job and family.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Decisions:<\/strong> We lay out your options and their risks so you can decide with full information.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Your first consultation is free, confidential and comes with no obligation to continue.<\/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 Focuses on Cases Like This<\/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. We handle sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, online sex crimes, aggravated assault and family violence matters across Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth and Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Heather Jean Barbieri, Board Certified, Criminal Law &#8212; Texas Board of Legal Specialization<\/p>\n<p>Heather Barbieri and Carrie Thomas are the firm&#8217;s lawyers. Assistants and office staff support them.<\/p>\n<h2>Questions Professionals Ask About a Breakup-Related Accusation<\/h2>\n<p>Most of these answers turn on the difference between a complaint, a protective order and a criminal charge.<\/p>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can my accuser drop the charges and end this?<\/summary><p>Your accuser&#8217;s account is one part of the investigation.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Does a protective order mean I have been charged?<\/summary><p>No. A protective order is a separate proceeding, and the court must find reasonable grounds before it issues one.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Will this follow me if I am never charged?<\/summary><p>Texas may allow expunction of arrest records when no indictment is presented. For a felony arrest, at least three years must pass from the arrest if no indictment or information was presented, unless the attorney representing the state certifies that the applicable arrest records and files are not needed for use in any criminal investigation or prosecution (<a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/CR\/htm\/CR.55A.htm#55A.052\">Texas Code of Criminal Procedure art. 55A.052<\/a>).<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Should I talk to the detective to clear my name?<\/summary><p>No. Speak with a lawyer first, because early statements can be used later in the case.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I keep working while this is pending?<\/summary><p>That depends on your employer, your licensing board and the stage of the case. Your lawyer can review those questions with you.<\/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\/handcuffed-person-reviewing-evidence-photos-on-a-table-in-an-photo.jpg\" alt=\"A handcuffed person looks over evidence photos on a table in an indoor investigation setting.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Talk With a Texas Lawyer Before You Say Another Word<\/h2>\n<p>If a detective has called, a protective order was served or a warrant is in question, a Texas lawyer can review your rights before you decide what to say and to whom. Call (972) 424-1902 or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">send us your case details<\/a> to start that conversation. The first talk exists to protect your rights and your options, not to predict how the 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\">What Happens When You Call Us<\/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--phone\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A confidential first conversation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your first consultation is free, confidential and comes with no obligation to continue. You can share what happened in your own words.<\/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--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A review of the evidence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We will review the messages, the timeline, any police or medical records and the other available evidence, and explain what they may mean for your case.<\/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\">A plan for your next steps<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We will explain your options, including how to respond to police, prosecutors or a protective order request, so you can decide with clear information.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--heart\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A team that takes this seriously<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our team understands how frightening a false or exaggerated accusation can be, especially after a relationship ends. We will treat your situation with care and discretion.<\/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\">Be careful before you act on your own<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid contacting the other person, posting about the relationship on social media or deleting messages or photos. Talk with a lawyer before you give a statement to police.<\/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\">Schedule 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\/\">Schedule a free consultation<\/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 People Ask After a Breakup Accusation<\/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 my accuser drop the charges and end this?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your accuser&#x27;s account is one part of the investigation. Prosecutors make their own decisions, and we can explain how the process works in your situation.<\/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 a protective order mean I have been charged?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. We can explain what a protective order means for 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>Will this follow me if I am never charged?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An investigation can still affect your work, your relationships and your reputation. We will review what records exist and talk through your concerns 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>Should I talk to the police?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Speak with a lawyer before answering questions. We can help you understand your rights and decide how to respond to police or investigators.<\/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\">Your first consultation is free, confidential and comes with 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><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/\">Online Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer | Collin County &amp; Texas<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/aggravated-sexual-assault-defense\/\">Aggravated Sexual Assault Defense<\/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-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><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-sexual-assault-of-a-spouse-defense-lawyer-texas\/\">Sexual Assault of a Spouse Charge Defense Lawyer in Texas<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-should-i-talk-to-police-about-online-messages-t\/\">Should I Talk to Police About Online Messages in Texas?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer-statute-of-limitations-online-sex-crimes-texas\/\">Statute of Limitations for Online Sex Crimes in Texas: When Can the State File?<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Accused of sexual assault after a breakup in Texas? Learn what the charge means, what to do first, and how Barbieri Law Firm can help.<\/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\"]}, \"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\"}], \"mentions\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Assault\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Assault\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Domestic violence\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Domestic_violence\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Felony\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Felony\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Indictment\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indictment\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Expungement\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Expungement\"}, {\"@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\/\"}}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can my accuser drop the charges and end this?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Your accuser's account is one part of the investigation.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does a protective order mean I have been charged?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. A protective order is a separate proceeding, and the court must find reasonable grounds before it issues one.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will this follow me if I am never charged?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Texas may allow expunction of arrest records when no indictment is presented. 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