Sex crimes begin as a complaint. In order for the District Court to obtain jurisdiction the complaint must become a formal indictment. Grand Juries are responsible for indicting sex crime complaints. Evidence is presented by the prosecutor to twelve citizens who decide to issue either a “True-Bill” or a “No-Bill”. If a “True Bill” is issued the sex crime case continues. However, if a “No-Bill” is issued the sex crime case is dismissed. For various reasons, sex crimes are ripe for no-bills and our Houston sex crime lawyers have successfully obtained “no-bills” for a number of clients accused of sexual assault and sex crimes.
With a dismissal rate eight (8) times the national average, our Houston sexual assault lawyers and Houston sex crime lawyers have the knowledge, skill, and resources to protect you against:
If the officer’s actions were unlawful, then our Houston sexual assault lawyers will file a motion to suppress the unlawful evidence. If the evidence is suppressed it can not be used in the court of law. Suppressions often leave to dismissals.
With a 40% dismissal or not guilty rate our Houston sex crime lawyers have the resources to provide you with the best possible outcome. Criminal accusations, specifically sexual assault and sex crime accusations, can have a permanent effect on your livelihood. Our sex offender lawyers proven defense approach will ensure your future is protected. Read our sex crime defense testimonials, and see what former clients have to say. We look forward to working as your Houston sex crime criminal defense lawyers.
Trending in the news lately is the number of teacher arrests as a result of an alleged inappropriate or improper relationship with a student. These accusations are considered sex crimes.
Improper Teacher Student Relationship – Texas Law
Texas Penal Code Section 21.12 makes it a second degree felony for a teacher to engage in sexual contact or sexual intercourse with a current student. Sexual contact is defined as touching the anus, breast, or genitals with the intent to arouse.
It is an affirmative defense to any teacher-student relationship offense if the teacher was married to the student or if the teacher was not more than three years older and the relatioship began prior to the student enrolling in the school.
Stages of a Student-Teacher Investigation
Once authorities catch wind of a potential criminal act, an investigation will begin. If you are contacted by Child Protective Services (CPS), police officers, or school officials, tell them “I would be happy to cooperate with my attorney present.” Understand anything you say will be used against you.
If you believe you are under suspicion of an improper teacher-student relationship, contact a qualified criminal defense attorney. Your Texas sex crime attorney will act as your voice and can speak with the necessary government and school officials to determine the direction of the case.
Goal #1: Keep sex crime charges from ever being filed.
Goal #2: If charges are filed, seek to have the case dismissed at the grand jury level (i.e. no-bll).
Goal #3: If a true-bill is issued, look for legal and mitigating circumstances to have the case dismissed at the district court level.
The Adamo & Adamo Law Firm understands the sever impact such accusations can have on your daily life. With your family, your employment, and your life on the line, trust our sexual assault attorneys to obtain the best possible criminal defense result.
Facing a sex crime charge can be overwhelming and intimidating. The implications are severe and the stakes are incredibly high.
Expert Knowledge: A seasoned criminal defense attorney understands the intricacies of sex crime laws. They are well-versed in legal precedents and know how to navigate complex statutes.
Strategic Defense: An aggressive advocate doesn’t just react; they proactively plan. They will meticulously investigate your case, gather evidence, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument.
Protecting Your Rights: An experienced lawyer ensures your rights are protected throughout the legal process. They are vigilant against any violations, whether during interrogations or throughout the trial.
Emotional Support: Facing such charges can be psychologically draining. A dedicated advocate provides not just legal counsel but also emotional support, helping you maintain a clear mind through the ordeal.
Reputation Management: Charges of this nature can tarnish your reputation instantly. A proactive legal advocate will work to manage public perception and protect your good name through strategic communications and, if necessary, damage control.
Being charged with a sex crime is a life-altering event. Ensure you have a dedicated and aggressive advocate on your side to navigate this challenging time with expertise and compassion. The sooner you act, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
The attorney has garnered substantial expertise by handling hundreds of child sexual abuse cases in his role as a child sex crimes prosecutor. This experience goes beyond mere courtroom proceedings; it involves in-depth interviews with the affected children and a critical analysis of their allegations.
Through direct and meticulous interviews with child victims, the attorney has gained a profound understanding of the complexities involved in these cases. This hands-on experience is crucial for assessing the credibility and nuances of the children’s testimonies.
Leveraging his prosecutorial background, the attorney now applies his specialized knowledge to defend clients facing similar allegations. His unique perspective enables him to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop robust defense strategies.
This comprehensive background equips the attorney with the expertise needed to navigate the intricate dynamics of child sexual abuse cases effectively.
Having previously served as a prosecutor, Sam Adamo brings a unique and strategic perspective to his role as a defense attorney. This experience equips him with an in-depth understanding of the prosecution’s mindset and strategies. Here’s how his background offers a distinct advantage:
Insider Knowledge: Sam has firsthand experience with the intricacies of prosecuting criminal and sex crime cases. He knows the tactics and approaches prosecutors use, which allows him to anticipate their moves and counter them effectively.
Strategic Defense Planning: Understanding the prosecutorial process from the inside enables Sam Adamo to devise defense strategies that specifically address and mitigate the strengths of the prosecution’s case. He can identify weaknesses and exploit them to his client’s benefit.
Enhanced Negotiation Skills: Having been a prosecutor, Sam Adamo is adept at negotiating from a position of strength. He knows what prosecutors are likely to consider during plea bargains and can use this knowledge to negotiate more favorable terms for his clients.
Credibility and Respect: Prosecutors recognize and respect Sam‘s background. This often leads to a more collaborative environment during negotiations and can sometimes result in more favorable outcomes for his clients.
Holistic Case Assessment: His dual perspective allows him to evaluate cases from both angles, ensuring no detail is overlooked. This comprehensive approach often results in more thorough and effective defense strategies.
By leveraging his prosecutorial background, Sam provides his clients with a robust defense, aiming to achieve the best possible outcomes. His unique insight into the prosecution’s methods and mindset sets him apart in the field of criminal defense.
Unique Insight into Prosecution Tactics
Having served as a prosecutor, Sam Adamo possesses a deep understanding of the strategies and tactics used by the prosecution. This insider knowledge allows him to anticipate the moves of the opposing side, making him exceptionally prepared to counter their arguments.
Balanced Perspective
Sam Adamo’s experience on both sides of the courtroom equips him with a balanced view of the judicial process. This dual perspective enables him to build stronger, more comprehensive defense strategies, ensuring that no detail is overlooked.
Effective Negotiation Skills
Former prosecutors often have established relationships with other legal professionals, including current prosecutors and judges. Sam leverages these connections and his understanding of the prosecution’s goals to negotiate more favorable plea deals or even dismissal of charges.
Credibility in the Courtroom
Having once represented the state, Sam Adamo holds a level of credibility and respect that can sway both judges and juries. His prior role as a prosecutor adds weight to his arguments and can enhance the perception of his current defense cases.
Comprehensive Legal Knowledge
Sam’s experience means he is well-versed in the complexities of both prosecuting and defending cases. This comprehensive legal knowledge allows him to identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and exploit them effectively.
By combining his prosecutorial experience with his defense tactics, Sam Adamo offers a formidable advantage to his clients facing serious criminal charges.
Preparation is essential in combating criminal charges because it ensures a robust defense across all stages of the legal process. One of the foundational principles in criminal defense is that thorough preparation can often lead to more favorable outcomes.
Building a Strong Defense Strategy:
Utilizing Expert Resources:
Trial Readiness:
Ensuring Fair Treatment:
Potential for Dismissal:
In summary, preparation is the linchpin of effective criminal defense. It empowers defense attorneys to present compelling arguments, challenge the prosecution’s assertions, and secure the best possible outcomes for their clients.
When faced with the daunting challenge of sex crime allegations, you need more than just legal representation. You need a law firm that treats you with empathy and respect throughout the entire process.
Respect and Dignity
From the first consultation, the team acknowledges your humanity. They understand the stigma and emotional toll such accusations can have on your life. This understanding guides their approach, ensuring every client feels valued and heard.
Aggressive Defense
The firm does not back down. They are committed to meticulously building a robust defense strategy, drawing from extensive training and experience. Every legal maneuver is calculated to give you the strongest possible defense in and out of the courtroom.
Client-Centered Approach
Recognizing that each case is unique, the firm prioritizes your individual needs. They combine their aggressive defense tactics with a compassionate understanding of your personal circumstances, making sure to tailor their strategies to fit your specific situation.
Comprehensive Support
Beyond mere legal advice, the firm provides a thorough support system. This includes guidance through the complexities of the legal process and continuous updates on the status of your case. They aim to alleviate some of the uncertainties and stress that come with such serious accusations.
By combining aggressive legal tactics with a deep sense of empathy and respect, the Sam Adamo Law Firm offers a balanced and supportive environment for clients accused of sex crimes. This dual focus ensures that clients receive not only the best possible defense but also the dignified treatment they deserve during such a challenging time.
The Law Office of Sam Adamo extends its legal expertise throughout the Houston metro area and across the state of Texas. Their practice covers:
Whether you’re in the bustling city of Houston or the surrounding counties, the clients have access to comprehensive legal support.
Additional Sex Crime Questions
Criminal accusations, specifically sexual assault and sex crime accusations, can have a permanent effect on your livelihood. Just being accused of these types of crimes can have a devastating impact on a person’s reputation in the community, job, and family life.
Our sex offender lawyers’ proven defense approach will ensure your future is protected. We understand how these allegations can tear apart your social standing, disrupt your career, and strain family relationships.
Our dedicated team is here to help you navigate these challenging times, providing the support and legal expertise you need to safeguard every aspect of your life.
The mere accusation alone can cause significant harm and disruption to your life, regardless of whether it’s followed by a legal judgment.
We recognize that being accused of such crimes carries a heavy emotional and psychological burden, affecting more than just your legal standing.
The impact is profoundly negative and can be incredibly damaging to various aspects of your personal and professional life.
Accusations can impact your standing in the community, professional career, and relationships with family members.
Goal #1: Keep sex crime charges from ever being filed.
Goal #2: If charges are filed, seek to have the case dismissed at the grand jury level (i.e. No-bill).
Goal #3: If a true-bill is issued, look for legal and mitigating circumstances to have the case dismissed at the district court level.
Sam understands that just being accused of these types of crimes can have a devastating effect on a person’s reputation, job, and family life. He defends clients at the investigation level all the way through trial, ensuring comprehensive support at every stage. This means you can count on him to be there from the moment you are accused until the final verdict.
With an empathetic approach, Sam Adamo not only focuses on achieving the best legal outcomes but also on mitigating the personal impacts on his clients. His dedication goes beyond mere courtroom tactics, offering consistent guidance and reassurance throughout the entire legal process.
At the trial stage, the attorney continues to provide robust defense strategies, aiming to achieve the best possible outcome for the client.
The attorney is dedicated to defending clients diligently and thoroughly, ensuring that every aspect of their case is addressed.
Clients can expect steadfast legal representation throughout the entirety of their case, from start to finish.
The attorney is aware of the significant repercussions that accusations can have on an individual’s reputation, employment, and family dynamics.
The attorney supports clients from the initial investigation phase through to the trial, ensuring comprehensive legal defense at every stage.
Sam Adamo worked as a Harris County prosecutor while forming and leading the first special crimes division. During his tenure, he gained intricate knowledge of the criminal justice system, particularly in handling complex cases involving serious offenses.
As a prosecutor, Sam managed cases from initial investigation stages through to trial, working closely with law enforcement and other agencies. This experience honed his ability to scrutinize evidence and build robust cases, skills that are now invaluable in his current role as a defense attorney.
Sam’s transition from prosecutor to defense attorney provides him with a unique perspective. He leverages his inside knowledge of prosecutorial strategies to anticipate and counter the opposition’s moves effectively. This dual experience gives him a remarkable advantage in defending clients against life-altering felony and misdemeanor charges.
In essence, Sam Adamo’s background as a prosecutor and leader of the special crimes division arms him with unparalleled insights and skills, ensuring that his clients receive a formidable defense.
With a dismissal rate eight (8) times the national average, our Houston sexual assault lawyers and Houston sex crime lawyers have the knowledge, skill, and resources to protect you against:
Our legal team handles every case as if it will go to a jury trial. This thorough preparation is the cornerstone of our success. We personally interview witnesses and conduct comprehensive research on each case. Additionally, we may bring in experienced and professional investigators and expert witnesses if your case requires it.
If the officer’s actions were unlawful, then our Houston sexual assault lawyers will file a motion to suppress the unlawful evidence. If the evidence is suppressed, it cannot be used in the court of law. Suppressions often lead to dismissals.
We understand that the key to successfully fighting any criminal charge is meticulous preparation. By making the government prove its case, we aim to have charges of sexual assault crimes dismissed. Remember, the accused is innocent until proven guilty. Our dedication from beginning to end ensures that your freedom is fiercely protected.
With a dismissal rate eight (8) times the national average, our Houston sexual assault lawyers and Houston sex crime lawyers have the knowledge, skill, and resources to protect you against:
If the officer’s actions were unlawful, then our Houston sexual assault lawyers will file a motion to suppress the unlawful evidence. If the evidence is suppressed it can not be used in the court of law. Suppressions often lead to dismissals.
We understand how embarrassing and potentially harmful being accused of such a crime can be. That’s why we treat all our clients with respect and dignity. Our team is sensitive to these issues and will use our training and experience to aggressively defend you, while also being sensitive to your needs.
Our ultimate goal is to have charges of sexual assault crimes dismissed. The only way to achieve this is to be prepared to make the government prove its case. Remember, the accused is innocent until proven guilty. We are committed to fighting for your freedom from beginning to end.
From the moment you walk through our doors, you will find a team dedicated to your defense and well-being. We believe it is our job not just to defend you in court, but also to support you through a challenging time. You will not find a more professional and empathetic attorney team to assist you in your case.
Our comprehensive approach, combining aggressive legal tactics with empathetic support, ensures that you are not alone in this fight. We are here to protect your rights and work tirelessly towards a favorable outcome.
“Read our sex crime defense testimonials, and see what former clients have to say.
“The Adamo Law firm is hands down the best of the best! They will fight for you and they will come through for you! I highly recommend them over any other criminal defense attorney in Houston. If you want results… Go with Adamo and Adamo!!“
Olivia Devine
“My husband left a review but I’d be amiss to not leave one myself! The Law Firm of Adamo and Adamo worked tirelessly to get our case dismissed and we could not be more grateful. I would never (nor will I ever) work with anyone else in the future. Thank you Adamo/Adamo for advocating for our family and getting us the best possible outcome!“
Cesar Garza
“Made the process as smooth as possible and easy from beginning to end. Beat the case which is the most important thing. Thanks, Mr. Adamo.”
Zaida Garcia
“Thanks to their expertise and hard work, we received a favorable resolution. I highly recommend Adamo & Adamo Law Firm to anyone in need of legal assistance. Their compassionate approach and remarkable legal skills make them stand out. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
Thank you again to everyone at Adamo & Adamo for your excellent service.“
Yadrian Acosta
“Well, Thanks to the Law firm of Adamo Adamo and his Team, they were able to take my case and work diligently. Thanks to them and their hard work, I was able to get my charges withdrawn in a very great manner and in sufficient time. Something that could have taken years to get cleared.
I am very satisfied with the results since the case was dismissed. Sufficient Evidence of the Legal Defense, this shows that they did a good job. My family and I will be eternally grateful to them. I do not want to stop mentioning and can’t give enough thanks to Ms. Mariza Montenegro, who was always with me from the beginning.
I highly recommend their Law Firm and team to Adamo-Adamo.“Aimee Grant
“Sam Adamo was highly recommended to us for our bail help and case and didn’t disappoint! He was so easy to talk with in a stressful time and was sure to explain everything clearly. He was there every step of the way and pointed us in other directions after his services were finished. We couldn’t be more grateful for Sam! Highly recommend!!“
Cherie Tunstall
“Today has been a blessing in our family To have Sam Adamo and his firm as our attorney he is located in the area of Houston Texas, and Austin Texas , His firm has represented our son in a criminal case matter.. Before we decided to hired him we had two other attorneys that we talked to but my instinct feeling told me that Mr. Adamo was the one and when i say he is a genuine person and very well know the law ?! we we’re very grateful . please do your research If you are looking for a really great defense attorney call Adamo and Adamo law firm the ratings are outstanding and they are one percent defense law firm promise you invest with the best – five star ️ ️️️️“
Indecency with a child in Texas is a criminal offense found in Texas Penal Code 21.11, which makes it either a second or third degree felony offense if a person engages in sexual contact with a child younger than 17 years of age or with the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desires of any person exposes the person’s anus or genitals in the presence of the child or causes the child to do the same. It is an affirmative defense if the person was not more than three years older than the child.
Yes, indecency with a child is a felony in Texas. Texas Penal Code 21.11 makes the criminal offense of indecency with a child a second degree felony if the person engages or causes a child younger than 17 years of age to engage in sexual contact. Indecency with a child is a third degree felony in Texas if the person, with the intent to arouse or gratify sexual desires, exposes the anus or genitals knowing a child is present, or causes the child to do the same. A second degree felony is punishable from two – twenty years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. A third degree felony is punishable from two – ten years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
The legal age of consent in Texas is generally 17, but can vary depending on the actor’s age. Texas Penal Code 21.11 makes it an afirmative defense to prosecution of indency with a child if the actor was not more than three years older than the victim. If you are a senior in highschool and 18 years old and the freshamn is 14 years old, you can be charged with the criminal offense of indecency with a child.
Criminal Defense
The Adamo and Adamo Law Firm has been recognized by national publications for superior criminal defense.
Criminal Law
Named “. . . one of the outstanding criminal defense attorneys in Houston . . . ” by the Houston Chronicle.
Special Crimes
Sam Adamo worked as a Harris County prosecutor while forming and leading the first special crimes division.
Texas Bar Blog
The Adamo and Adamo Criminal Defense Law Firm is a consistent source for the Texas State Bar.
(713) 568-7011
3200 Travis 4th Floor Houston, TX 77006