{"id":623,"date":"2026-10-14T07:49:18","date_gmt":"2026-10-14T07:49:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/mckinney-sex-crimes-lawyer\/"},"modified":"2026-11-01T23:53:25","modified_gmt":"2026-11-01T23:53:25","slug":"mckinney-sex-crimes-lawyer","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/mckinney-sex-crimes-lawyer\/","title":{"rendered":"McKinney Sex Crimes Lawyer for Educators Under 21.12"},"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-621\" alt=\"Law office desk with legal binders and a gavel, representing defense counsel for educators in McKinney, Texas.\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/law-office-desk-with-legal-binders-and-a-gavel-representing-photo.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/law-office-desk-with-legal-binders-and-a-gavel-representing-photo-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/law-office-desk-with-legal-binders-and-a-gavel-representing-photo-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/law-office-desk-with-legal-binders-and-a-gavel-representing-photo-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/law-office-desk-with-legal-binders-and-a-gavel-representing-photo-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/law-office-desk-with-legal-binders-and-a-gavel-representing-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)\">McKinney | Sex Crimes Defense<\/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)\">Talk to a McKinney Sex Crimes Lawyer Who Defends Educators<\/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 educators accused of an improper relationship with a student across McKinney, Collin County and Dallas-Fort Worth. Led by Heather Barbieri. Your free initial consultation is no-obligation.<\/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 14, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>An improper relationship charge under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.12\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.12<\/a> accuses a school employee of sexual contact, sexual intercourse or deviate sexual intercourse with a covered student. The offense is a second-degree felony, and the State must prove every element. This page explains those elements, the job and licensing issues that often run beside the criminal case, and what a McKinney sex crimes lawyer reviews first. It is written for educators and school staff in McKinney, Prosper, Plano, Allen and across Collin County.<\/p>\n<h2>What Is an Improper Relationship Charge in Texas?<\/h2>\n<p>An improper relationship charge is a criminal accusation that a school employee had a prohibited sexual relationship with a student. The employee works at a public or private primary or secondary school, and the student is enrolled there or in a covered setting.<\/p>\n<p>The law also reaches staff who hold certain positions described in the Education Code. It applies even when the person lacks a certificate or license.<\/p>\n<p>A charge is an accusation, not a finding of guilt. The facts decide the case, and every part of the charge stays open to review.<\/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 school district notice, a police contact or an improper relationship accusation has reached you, we can review it with you in a free 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\/a-handcuffed-prisoner-is-guarded-in-a-tense-interrogation-ro-photo.jpg\" alt=\"A handcuffed prisoner is guarded in a tense interrogation room.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>The Elements the State Must Prove<\/h2>\n<p>Each element is a separate point the defense can test.<\/p>\n<h3>Position, Enrollment and Online Contact<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Same school:<\/strong> the student is enrolled at the school where the employee works, under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.12\">\u00a7 21.12(a)(1)<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Other schools and activities:<\/strong> under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.12\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.12<\/a>, the employee holds a position described by Section 21.003(a) or (b), Education Code, regardless of whether the employee holds the appropriate certificate, permit, license, or credential for the position. The employee knows the student is enrolled elsewhere or takes part in a school-sponsored activity, under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.12\">\u00a7 21.12(a)(2)<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Online contact:<\/strong> under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.12\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.12<\/a>, an employee who engages in conduct described by Section 33.021 with a person described in the statute is covered regardless of that person&#8217;s age.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Age and Defenses<\/h3>\n<p>One defense applies if the employee was the student&#8217;s spouse at the time. The other applies if the employee was not more than three years older and the relationship began before the employment started. These defenses turn on dates and facts, so they need early review.<\/p>\n<h3>The Conduct<\/h3>\n<p>The State must prove sexual contact, sexual intercourse or deviate sexual intercourse as the law defines them. For this offense, sexual contact means specific touching done with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire, under <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.12\">\u00a7 21.12(e)<\/a>. The general definition in <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.01\">Penal Code \u00a7 21.01<\/a> does not reach conduct governed by \u00a7 21.12.<\/p>\n<p>We test each element against the police report, interview recordings, messages and phone data. Careful review matters because false accusations are a recognized cause of wrongful conviction, according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.law.umich.edu\/special\/exoneration\/Pages\/about.aspx\">National Registry of Exonerations<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>How the Criminal Case and Your Job Can Overlap<\/h2>\n<p>Your criminal case and your job questions can move at different speeds. Each needs its own plan. Decisions about your position, leave and duties are made by the school district and other agencies, not by the criminal court. Ask early what the district has told you in writing.<\/p>\n<p>Penal Code \u00a7 21.12(d) provides that the name of a student with whom an educator is alleged to have engaged in the prohibited conduct may not be released to the public and is not public information under Chapter 552, Government Code.<\/p>\n<p>Think before you give a written or recorded statement to a school investigator or colleague. Talk with a lawyer first, because an early answer can be hard to correct later.<\/p>\n<h2>What to Expect: The Defense Process Step by Step<\/h2>\n<p>The process starts with a review of the charge and every notice you received. Then it moves to evidence and strategy. Timelines vary by case, and no lawyer can say how long yours will take.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Initial consultation.<\/strong> We review the charge, the timeline and any letters or notices you have received.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Communication rules.<\/strong> We explain what to say, and what not to say, to administrators, investigators and colleagues.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Evidence review.<\/strong> We review police reports, interview recordings, messages, phone data and any school records the State has obtained.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Separate deadlines.<\/strong> Employment and licensing matters have their own timelines, apart from the criminal case. We map them so nothing is missed.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Strategy and options.<\/strong> We explain your options, including how the case may move through court settings and any negotiations.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>Why Barbieri Law Firm for an Educator&#8217;s Sex Crimes Case<\/h2>\n<p>Barbieri Law Firm is an all-women criminal defense firm in Frisco, Texas. It defends professionals accused of sex crimes and assaultive offenses across Collin County, Dallas-Fort Worth and Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Heather Jean Barbieri, Board Certified, Criminal Law &#8212; Texas Board of Legal Specialization, is the founding attorney. Her criminal defense work covers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>sex crimes and child sex crimes<\/li>\n<li>online sex crimes<\/li>\n<li>aggravated sexual assault<\/li>\n<li>aggravated assault and family violence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The firm keeps a file that supports its factual statements on this site, and it will share that file on request.<\/p>\n<p>No lawyer can promise an outcome. What the firm can do is review the evidence, explain your options and answer your questions honestly.<\/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 an improper relationship charge a sex crime in Texas?<\/summary><p>Yes. It is a second-degree felony.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I be charged if the student is over 18?<\/summary><p>Age is not an element of \u00a7 21.12(a)(1) or (a)(2), so the statute applies to a student who is 18 or older.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Do I need a teaching certificate to be charged?<\/summary><p>No. The statute applies to certain employees whether or not they hold the certificate, permit, license or credential for the position.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Will the student&#8217;s name become public?<\/summary><p>The statute bars public release of an enrolled student&#8217;s name. Arrest records and charging information about an accused person are typically public record, so an accused employee&#8217;s name may appear in them before any indictment.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Should I talk to my school district first?<\/summary><p>No. Talk with a lawyer before any written or recorded statement to an administrator or investigator.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Is the first consultation free?<\/summary><p>Yes. A McKinney sex crimes lawyer at our firm offers a free first consultation to review the facts with no commitment.<\/p><\/details>\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<details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Not sure what your next step is?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><\/details><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\/handcuffed-man-s-hands-near-case-files-as-an-officer-reviews-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Handcuffed man reviewing evidence documents while a police officer stands beside him.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Talk With a McKinney Sex Crimes Lawyer About Your Situation<\/h2>\n<p>You do not have to sort out the criminal case and your job alone. Call (972) 424-1902 or send your case details through our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">contact form<\/a> to schedule a free consultation.<\/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 Barbieri Law Firm Approaches an Educator&#x27;s 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\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Review the charging language<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We read the specific subsection charged and identify the elements the State must prove in your case.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Examine the facts and evidence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We review the school records, messages, witness statements and any digital evidence to understand what happened and what can be shown.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Focused criminal defense<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our all-women firm focuses on defending professionals accused of sex crimes and assaultive offenses in Texas.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Explain your options<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We will walk you through your options in plain language so you can make informed decisions about your case.<\/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\">Know the Penalty Range<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prior felony convictions can raise the range.<\/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 Educators Ask 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\"><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\">Can I be charged if the student is over 18?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We will review the facts of your case with you.<\/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\">Do I need a teaching certificate to be charged?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The offense focuses on the relationship between an employee and a student at a school. We will review your employment role and the school setting in your 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\">Is this a sex crime in Texas?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Barbieri Law Firm defends these charges.<\/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\">What happens at the first meeting?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The free initial consultation is a chance to share the basic facts, ask questions and learn how we would approach your case. There is no obligation to continue.<\/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 Through Your Case With Heather Barbieri<\/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 or Send Us Your Case Details<\/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 or Send Us Your Case Details<\/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\/messaged-someone-who-said-underage-texas-charge\/\">Messaged Someone Who Said They Were Underage: What Texas Law Requires<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/mistake-of-age-online-sex-crime-texas\/\">I Thought They Were 18: Mistake of Age in Texas Online Sex Crime Cases<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/mistaken-belief-about-age-online-sex-crime-texas\/\">I Thought They Were 18: Does a Mistaken Belief About Age Matter in a Texas Online Sex Crime Case?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/multi-count-online-sex-crime-charges-texas\/\">Multi-Count Online Sex Crime Charges in Texas: Defense for Complex Investigations<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/nurse-physician-online-sex-crime-charge-defense-texas\/\">Nurse or Physician Charged With an Online Sex Crime in Texas<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Accused under Texas Penal Code 21.12 as a school employee? Learn what the State must prove and what to do next. 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":"[{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"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\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/mckinney-sex-crimes-lawyer\/#organization\", \"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\/\"}}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"headline\": \"McKinney Sex Crimes Lawyer for Educators Under 21.12\", \"image\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/law-office-desk-with-legal-binders-and-a-gavel-representing-photo.jpg\", \"description\": \"Accused under Texas Penal Code 21.12 as a school employee? Learn what the State must prove and what to do next. Call (972) 424-1902.\", \"mainEntityOfPage\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/mckinney-sex-crimes-lawyer\/\", \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is an improper relationship charge a sex crime in Texas?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. It is a second-degree felony.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I be charged if the student is over 18?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Age is not an element of \u00a7 21.12(a)(1) or (a)(2), so the statute applies to a student who is 18 or older.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Do I need a teaching certificate to be charged?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. The statute applies to certain employees whether or not they hold the certificate, permit, license or credential for the position.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will the student's name become public?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The statute bars public release of an enrolled student's name. Arrest records and charging information about an accused person are typically public record, so an accused employee's name may appear in them before any indictment.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Should I talk to my school district first?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. Talk with a lawyer before any written or recorded statement to an administrator or investigator.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is the first consultation free?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. A McKinney sex crimes lawyer at our firm offers a free first consultation to review the facts with no commitment.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Not sure what your next step is?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Talk it through with our team -- the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.\"}}], \"@type\": [\"Article\", \"FAQPage\"]}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Online Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Mckinney Sex Crimes Lawyer\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/mckinney-sex-crimes-lawyer\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"Accused under Texas Penal Code 21.12 as a school employee? Learn what the State must prove and what to do next. Call (972) 424-1902.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-623","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/623","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=623"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/623\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5436,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/623\/revisions\/5436"}],"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=623"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}