Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse Attorney

Are You Looking for the Best Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse Attorney?

If you’re looking for the best Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse attorney, then Paul Saputo and Nick Toufexis want to represent you. Our distinguished lawyers have significant experience, but our history of success speaks for itself.

Being convicted of a sex offense like Continuous Sexual Abuse can change your life in many negative ways. Don’t talk with the police or sign a plea agreement without first consulting with the Denton sex offense attorneys at Saputo Toufeixs | Criminal Defense. The Saputo Toufexis | Criminal Defense team seeks to represent discerning clients who value our commitment to achieving outstanding results. Our attorneys have dedicated their careers to criminal defense and maintain an unwavering dedication to delivering expert representation.

We’re not just Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse lawyers. We are warriors fighting unjust and corrupt government prosecutions with a history of success and a reputation for tenacity, courage and legal ingenuity.

In addition to our notable high-profile victories, our history of success also includes inconspicuous representation of numerous high-profile clients. Indeed, many of our biggest wins involved disposing of these cases quietly and out of the sight of the public. As your Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse attorney, we can handle every aspect of your case, both inside and outside the courtroom in Denton.

When Texas prosecutes you for the crime of Continuous Sexual Abuse, both your freedom and your reputation are at risk. Even the arrest itself causes immense damage. Conisder the damage to your reputation, liability for a civil suit and the emotional pain and anger that comes with the accusation. The bond conditions can wreak havoc at home. That is why we continue representation outside of the courtroom.

Accordingly, the lawyers at Saputo Toufexis | Criminal Defense aim to not only win your case, but also keep your name out of the public eye. As a result of pushing the defense envelope for years, we have developed some of the best specialized tools for investigating sex crimes accusations and defending our clients in and out of courtrooms throughout Texas. We handle every aspect of your Continuous Sexual Abuse representation, from defending you in the media, at your job, in court at pre-trial hearings and all the way through trial.

Choosing The Right Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse Lawyer Can Make A Huge Difference In Your Case Result

Why would you hire a former prosecutor? Surprisingly, some people believe that former prosecutors provide some special advantage. However, many of these attorneys seem to quickly push clients to a plea deal. If you really want someone who will fight for you or your loved one, get an attorney who has dedicated their life to protecting the accused.

At Saputo Toufexis | Criminal Defense, we are defense lawyers, first and foremost. We stake our reputation on bringing the fight to the state. We have never worked for the government and never will. Learn more about our team, awards, and some of our victories.

How do I get a Continuous Sexual Abuse charge dropped in Denton, Texas?

In order to get a Continuous Sexual Abuse charge dropped in Denton, you must convince the state that they cannot prove at least one of the elements of the offense as it is defined in Penal Code §21.02.^[1] Our lawyers are experts in the Texas law regarding Continuous Sexual Abuse, and we leverage our legal knowledge to mount successful defenses to government prosecutions.

Thoroughly understanding both the Continuous Sexual Abuse statute and related case law contributes to effectively defending you in court. As part of our practice, we publish and regularly update a statutory resource guide covering all Texas Penal Code crimes. We analyze the Continuous Sexual Abuse statute in detail on the Continuous Sexual Abuse offense page. We also maintain our expertise by keeping up with the latest case law affecting Continuous Sexual Abuse cases in Denton.

One such case is Lopez-Salas v. State.

Lopez-Salas v. State

In Lopez-Salas v. State, decided on March 30, 2017, by the Second District Court of Appeals of Texas reviewed the convcition of Ivan Lopez-Salas in Denton County for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child. His appeal contested the admissibility of prior accusations made by the complainant, the constitutionality of the jury charge, and several other evidentiary and procedural issues. The court affirmed the conviction, holding that the trial court had not erred in excluding evidence about the complainant’s past accusations, which were deemed irrelevant to the case.

The evidence presented during the trial included the complainant’s testimony and DNA results, confirming Lopez-Salas’s sexual abuse that began when the complainant was under the age of fourteen. The appellate court found that the jury was properly instructed on the separation of charges related to incidents before and after the complainant’s fourteenth birthday, aligning with the requirements of Texas Penal Code Ann. § 21.02. Additionally, the court dismissed claims of insufficient evidence and upheld the expert testimony regarding DNA analysis, affirming that the procedures and database used were reliable and properly reviewed.

The decision in Lopez-Salas v. State underscores the appellate system’s role in scrutinizing trial court decisions, particularly in complex cases involving continuous sexual abuse. The affirmation of the conviction illustrates the courts’ stringent standards for evidence admissibility and jury instruction in sexual abuse cases, ensuring that the legal rights of the accused and the integrity of the judicial process are maintained.

The State of Texas v. Stephenson

In another case, the Second Appellate District Court of Appeals reviewed the records from a verdict in the 462nd District Court. Subsequently, the court filed an opinion in a case styled The State of Texas v. Stephenson in Cause No. 02-22-00101-CR.

The appellate court reported the background of the case as follows:

The evidence at trial was plentiful and egregious. Each of the victims testified, as did Brittney, two of the victims’ siblings, Investigator Haiduk, the person who had performed the relevant DNA tests, and numerous other witnesses. The jury also received copies of the various SANE reports, copies of the DNA lab results, copies of Stephenson’s inappropriate Facebook messages to and about Courtney, medical records related to Courtney’s pregnancy, and birth and death records for her stillborn baby. Stephenson did not present any witnesses or exhibits in his own defense.

It is undisputed that Stephenson’s two continuous sexual abuse convictions involved different victims and occurred over different periods of time. Therefore, his convictions do not violate the Double Jeopardy Clause.

Every Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse attorney should be familiar with this case and other appellate opinions coming out of Denton that review Continuous Sexual Abuse cases. You can learn more about this case and read the court’s opinion here.

What does a Continuous Sexual Abuse charge really mean?

The general definition of the Texas charge of Continuous Sexual Abuse, according to the Texas Penal Code, is as follows:

(b) A person commits an offense if:

(1) during a period that is 30 or more days in duration, the person commits two or more acts of sexual abuse, regardless of whether the acts of sexual abuse are committed against one or more victims; and

(2) at the time of the commission of each of the acts of sexual abuse, the actor is 17 years of age or older and the victim is:

(A) a child younger than 14 years of age, regardless of whether the actor knows the age of the victim at the time of the offense; or

(B) a disabled individual.

Law Enforcement Agencies in Denton that Make Continuous Sexual Abuse Arrests

Peace officers with the Texas Department of Public Safety, constable offices, and municipal police departments can make arrests for violations of Continuous Sexual Abuse in Denton. Law enforcement agencies in Denton that most typically make Continuous Sexual Abuse arrests include:

• Denton County Sheriff’s Office – The sheriff’s office is responsible for making Continuous Sexual Abuse arrests in unincorporated areas of Denton County and operates the Denton County Jail.
• Denton Police Department – Serving the city of Denton, the police department makes Continuous Sexual Abuse arrests within the city limits.
• Lewisville Police Department – Serving the city of Lewisville, this municipal police department is responsible for law enforcement, including for Continuous Sexual Abuse cases, within the city limits.
• Flower Mound Police Department – This municipal police department serves the town of Flower Mound by providing law enforcement within the town.
• Highland Village Police Department – Serving the city of Highland Village, this municipal police department is responsible for law enforcement within the city limits.
• target=”_blank”The Colony Police Department – The Colony’s police department handles Continuous Sexual Abuse cases within the city limits.
• Argyle Police Department – Serving the town of Argyle, this municipal police department enforces the Continuous Sexual Abuse law within the town.
• Lake Dallas Police Department – This municipal police department provides law enforcement services to the city of Lake Dallas within the city limits.
• Little Elm Police Department – This municipal police department serves the town of Little Elm for law enforcement related to Continuous Sexual Abuse cases within the town.
• Roanoke Police Department – The Roanoke Police Department investigates Continuous Sexual Abuse cases within the city limits.

How do I win a Continuous Sexual Abuse case in Denton?

To beat a Continuous Sexual Abuse charge in Denton, Texas, you must use due process to confront all witnesses and challenge all evidence, which includes disputing reasonable suspicion, probable cause, and all forensic evidence. Winning requires a fight.

Even if you believe you cannot beat the case, as your Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse attorney, we will look for every avenue to help you. If you want to plead guilty, we must still fight to protect your rights. We want to ensure that the case does not ruin your life. Sometimes the defense strategy requires us to get the best possible result short of a not guilty verdict.

Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse Attorney Case Defense Strategy

The best defense strategy in Continuous Sexual Abuse cases demands a mix of cutting-edge science, traditional investigative resources and the mastery of digital and forensic technology. Some cases come down to science, but often cases come down to key witness testimony. Sometimes that witness is a sympathetic (but lying) victim. In any case, digital forensic evidence, science and the complex nature of human relationships all play an important role in crafting your defense. In pushing the defense envelope through the years, we have developed specialized methods for investigating these accusations.

Several defense strategies are available for Continuous Sexual Abuse charges, with the primary approach being to challenge the credibility of the allegations. This includes scrutinizing the initial outcry statement and any statements gathered by CPS or police investigators. Our team, composed of attorneys with specialized knowledge in these cases, will explore potential biases and motivations for deceit, such as coaching, recent disciplinary actions, transference, and complications with the other parent, including ongoing divorce proceedings. Our attorneys have extensive experience managing these cases in both pre-trial and trial settings.

Getting the best result in a Continuous Sexual Abuse case also requires being prepared for all hearings and court settings – not just trials. When you hire us as your Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse attorney, we prepare early and thoroughly. As soon as we get on a case, the state knows that we are getting ready for trial and that we are going for an outright acquittal.

But the preparation often starts even before the case begins. From the moment that the police initiate an investigation or make an arrest, we have work to do. If you want to win your case, then we must do our own investigation. The state has police and investigators of their own working for them to gather evidence to support their case. We can’t afford to let their evidence stand uncontroverted. As a client, you will benefit from the investigative resources of the entire law firm. We have a team of dedicated professionals, including paralegals, investigators, and forensic experts. Our attorneys utilize our team’s extensive investigative experience to perform the ground work that makes our cases strong.

How much does a lawyer charge for a Continuous Sexual Abuse case in Denton, Texas?

Attorney’s fees for a Continuous Sexual Abuse charge typically range from $15,000 to $60,000 in Denton, Texas. You can expect to pay higher attorney fees for more complex cases. Some Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse lawyers may charge much more. But exercise caution when encountering attorneys who offer unexpectedly low fees.

In addition, many lawyers charge extra fees for trial. If you hire an attorney from outside Denton, sometimes travel fees may apply.

What You Should Do if You Are Falsely Accused of Continuous Sexual Abuse in Denton

Even when falsely accused of Continuous Sexual Abuse, it’s crucial to treat the charge with the utmost seriousness. You might hope the state would dismiss the charges due to your innocence. But without skilled legal representation, the case may proceed to trial, where a jury will ultimately make the decision.

If the Denton District Attorney has charged you with Continuous Sexual Abuse, or if you are under investigation for the offense by the police, then you should book an appointment or call us as soon as possible to speak with one of our Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse attorneys.

How can you modify your Denton bond conditions after a Continuous Sexual Abuse arrest?

Texas judges have broad power to set bail and bond conditions. However, sometimes judges impose overly harsh bond conditions and astronomically high bail. To modify the conditions of bond or lower bail, you will need to file a motion in court and schedule a hearing. The judge will ultimately make the final decision. To get the best result, you should hire an attorney to help.

Practically speaking, if the police in Denton have arrested you for Continuous Sexual Abuse, then the judge will typically impose a “no contact with the victim” bond condition. Frequently, judges will also impose a “no contact with minors” condition for these cases as well. Clients often hire us to try to get these conditions removed. If you want to remove a no contact condition, then please book a consultation with us, and we will discuss what we can do for you.

What happens at a Denton arraignment?

At your arraignment, a Denton judge will hear your plea of not guilty. In Denton, you may not have an attorney at your initial arraignment. However, the court will not hear a guilty plea prior to your being represented by counsel. In addition, the court may also set bail and bond conditions if you have not already received them.

If the police have arrested you for Continuous Sexual Abuse, then Texas Code of Criminal Procedure §17.40 requires Denton judges to “impose any reasonable condition of bond related to the safety of a victim of the alleged offense or to the safety of the community” to secure your attendance at trial. If the state alleges that you violated those bond conditions, then the Denton Sheriff’s Office can immediately return you to custody. Accordingly, judges have very broad power in determining bail conditions and bond amounts.

What is the most common sentence for a Continuous Sexual Abuse charge in Denton, Texas?

The Texas Penal code classifies Continuous Sexual Abuse as a first degree felony for any Texas conviction. You can get 5-99 years in prison or a life sentence. However,Continuous Sexual Abuse carries a special minimum punishment of 25 years.

You would also have to decide if you want to have the judge or the jury assess punishment. Furthermore, all good Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse attorneys will also advise you on the collateral consequences of a Continuous Sexual Abuse conviction.

With this in mind, you can learn about the penalties that apply to all Texas convictions and probation eligibility for Continuous Sexual Abuse here. Otherwise, to learn more about what kind of punishment is typical in Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse cases, call us to schedule a consultation or book online.

Sex Offender Registration Requirements for Continuous Sexual Abuse Cases

Continuous Sexual Abuse convictions require sex offender registration unless special circumstances apply. Deferred adjudication plea deals (where a judge never finds you guilty and ultimately dismisses the case) have the same impact as convictions for the purposes of these registration requirements. If you have any questions about what a plea means for your permanent record, schedule a consultation with us to discuss your case.

Are you under investigation for Continuous Sexual Abuse? Should you cooperate with the police investigation?

We have assisted our clients through many difficult police interrogations. Although we do not always recommend consenting to an interrogation, occasionally we recognize circumstances where consenting to an interrogation may serve your best interest. However, you should never do a police interview without your Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse lawyer present.

An arrest for Continuous Sexual Abuse can drastically change your life, even if a court dismisses your case. Do not hesitate to contact us immediately if you are under investigation.

In some cases we have communicated directly with law enforcement authorities on behalf of our clients instead of consenting to a direct interrogation. In general, we recommend avoiding police interrogations because of the extreme level of stress that you will likely experience. Even if you are innocent, the Denton police and the community will likely judge the way you act and what you say negatively. We must carefully consider this because this negative perception will almost certainly impact your final case disposition. As your Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse attorney, we can assist you in these difficult circumstances.

About Saputo Toufexis | Criminal Defense

If you want to hire us as your Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse lawyers, then you should probably get to know us!

The Saputo Toufexis | Criminal Defense Lawyers

Paul Saputo and Nicholas Toufexis are partners at Saputo Toufexis | Criminal Defense PLLC and lead the entire trial team at the firm.

Mr. Saputo has practiced throughout Texas in more than fifty Texas state and federal courts and developed groundbreaking innovations in defense strategies and tactics. After graduating from the elite Duke University School of Law, a nationally recognized top-ten law school, Mr. Saputo started his career at Vinson & Elkins. More about Paul Saputo…

Mr. Toufexis is a veteran of the United States Navy and a graduate of SMU Dedman School of Law. He has dedicated his entire legal career to criminal defense, and has been with the firm since law school. Recently named a partner, Nick has achieved exceptional results in and out of court for years. More about Nick…

Awards

Numerous organizations have awarded Mr. Saputo recognition for his outstanding criminal defense work, for example:

• Martindale-Hubbell® AV Preeminent™ Rating
• Recognized by Super Lawyers®
• Consistently recognized by D Magazine in “Best Lawyers” for Criminal Defense
• Recognized by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America for 2024 under the Criminal Defense: White Collar practice area.

Paul Saputo was voted one of the Three Best Rated Criminal Defense Lawyers in Dallas

More Awards & Recognition…

Nicholas Toufexis has likewise received many distinctions as well.

• Recognized by Super Lawyers®
• Recognized by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America for 2024 under the Criminal Defense: DWI/DUI practice area.

Victories

The Denton Continuous Sexual Abuse attorneys at Saputo Toufexis | Criminal Defense PLLC have obtained hundreds of victories in complex criminal litigation across Texas. Our victories include Not Guilty verdicts by jury acquittals, directed verdicts of Not Guilty, as well as both conditional and unconditional dismissals.

For descriptions and some details about example victories, visit our page on Notable Victories.

Reviews

One example review from a real client:

Nick Toufexis is an AMAZING lawyer! I am so thankful for all of his help throughout this entire process. I was having a lot of problems with my situation, and he helped me navigate my case from beginning to end. His representation was exactly what I needed, and he got the job done! Nick, thank you again for all of your help. Couldn’t have done it without you!

– Real client review posted on the Saputo Toufexis | Criminal Defense PLLC Google Profile.

See more client reviews and testimonials here.

---

Legal References:

^1. Texas Penal Code §21.02.