Understanding the Charge
Before stepping into the courtroom, it’s crucial to understand what a sexual assault charge means under Texas law. Sexual assault is defined as any sexual contact with another person without their consent. This includes actions such as unwanted touching, groping, or penetration. The state of Texas treats sexual assault cases with utmost seriousness. A conviction can result in significant prison time, hefty fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender.The Courtroom Setting
When your case goes to trial, the first thing you’ll notice is the formal setting of the courtroom. Texas courts are structured and organized to ensure fairness. The judge presides over the case, making decisions and ensuring the trial adheres to legal rules. The defense attorney, representing the defendant, sits on one side of the courtroom, while the prosecutor, representing the state of Texas, sits opposite. A jury of 12 people sits at the front, tasked with determining the defendant’s guilt or innocence based on the evidence presented.What Happens Before the Trial Starts
Before the trial itself, there are several pre-trial motions and hearings. These are procedural steps to prepare for the trial. The defense and prosecution may file motions to address issues such as which evidence will be admissible in court. These motions are usually discussed in front of the judge without the jury present. While not part of the trial, this phase sets the stage for what will happen later.
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. .
The Trial Process
Once the trial begins, the process follows a structured sequence. It starts with the opening statements, where both the prosecutor and the defense attorney will present an outline of their case to the jury. The prosecutor will explain why they believe the defendant is guilty of sexual assault, while the defense attorney will outline why they believe the defendant is not guilty or how the prosecution’s evidence may be unreliable. After the opening statements, the prosecution will begin presenting their evidence. This includes calling witnesses such as the alleged victim, law enforcement officers, medical experts, and others who can provide relevant testimony. The prosecution will use this evidence to try to convince the jury of the defendant’s guilt. During cross-examination, the defense attorney will have the opportunity to question the prosecution’s witnesses. The goal here is to challenge the credibility of the prosecution’s case and raise doubts about the evidence being presented. The defense may also present witnesses and evidence to support the defendant’s innocence. This could include testimony from individuals present during the alleged incident or experts who can dispute the prosecution’s evidence. In some cases, the defense may argue that the encounter was consensual or that the victim’s testimony is not credible.
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