Understanding Legal Penalties in Texas 
A conviction for a sex crime in Texas carries serious legal penalties. Depending on the nature of the charge, you could face years in prison, probation, mandatory counseling, and significant fines. Some offenses carry minimum sentences that judges cannot reduce, meaning that once convicted, a person may have little control over how long they remain incarcerated. Even after a sentence is served, the conviction does not simply disappear. It stays with you for years, and in many cases, for life.
Sex Offender Registration Requirements
One of the most damaging long term consequences is the requirement to register as a sex offender. Texas has some of the strictest registration laws in the country. For many individuals, registration is required for decades, and in some cases, for the remainder of their lives. This registry is public, meaning anyone can access your name, address, and conviction details. Employers, landlords, and neighbors often use this information, which can create lasting barriers. Registration also comes with strict rules about where you can live and work. For example, many registrants cannot live within a certain distance of schools, parks, or daycare centers.Employment Challenges After Conviction
A sex crime conviction creates obstacles to finding and keeping employment. Many careers that require professional licensing will no longer be available, including jobs in education, healthcare, and childcare. Even jobs outside those fields may be difficult to obtain once an employer sees the conviction on a background check. Texas does not restrict employers from considering criminal convictions when making hiring decisions, which means the stigma of a sex crime record can follow you into every interview.
PROTECTING YOUR RIGHTS AND FUTURE
Criminal Defense Attorney
Douglas Wilder
Attorney Douglas Wilder has always stayed on the cutting edge of training and attending seminars to ensure he has the most knowledge he can to represent his clients. This has led him to be recognized as one of the Best Lawyers under 40 in Dallas by D magazine, and also recognized as a Super Lawyer for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, & 2023. .
Housing Restrictions and Barriers
Stable housing is often out of reach for those with a sex crime conviction. Landlords commonly reject applicants with these records. In addition, restrictions related to the sex offender registry may limit where you can legally live. In urban areas where schools and childcare centers are common, finding housing that complies with the law becomes even harder. This often forces individuals into limited housing options that may be less safe or farther from employment opportunities.Impact on Family Life and Relationships
The effects of a conviction extend deeply into personal and family life. Many people experience strained or broken relationships with friends and family members after a conviction. Courts may also place restrictions on visitation with your children, especially in cases involving offenses against minors. Rebuilding trust is often a long and painful process. The social stigma that follows a sex crime conviction makes it difficult to move forward, even after completing a sentence.
The Wilder Law Firm helped me overcome my case with the most favorable outcome possible. My case was dismissed very quickly and they kept me updated throughout the process. They handled all of my court appearances which kept me from having to spend time away from work. I greatly appreciate their help and would highly recommend them.”
- Forrest Davis
I hired the Wilder Law Firm to help with my Family Violence Citations due to it’s remarkable reviews, experience in the field and high approval rating! The firm successfully resolved my cases and got both of them dismissed. This has not only given me a greater relief, but I’m happy and excited that I have no record to worry about. Thank you everyone at the Wilder Law Firm for the support and patience with me. I’m very excited."
- Steve Ak
My advice– call Wilder Law Firm– they will help you! I had two cases in two different courts and they were able to get both dismissed! Facing these two charges put me in a really hard time for a few months but with the Wilder Law Firm’s help, I was able to put all this past me and move on with a clean record. This was a hard life lesson but I am thankful for the results."
- Rudy Castanon