mintzerlawBeing accused of the online solicitation of a minor is a serious offense that requires a serious response.
The laws are complicated, and an individual needs help from a veteran criminal defense lawyer to
make sure that he or she is represented fairly.
Online solicitation occurs when an adult sends sexually-oriented material via electronic media or uses sexually-explicit communication to entice or arouse a minor who is younger than 17 years of age. An individual may be charged with the online solicitation of a minor if he has the intent to commit such a crime. A person who engages in sexual intercourse or sexual interaction with a child may also be charged.
In many cases, an arrest of an individual is usually by an undercover operation with an investigator who portrays an underage person. Some evidence is obtained, and a case is established against the defendant.
The prosecution has to prove every element against a defendant beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution must prove the case thoroughly because uncertainty by the judge or jury may result in a case dismissal or reduction in charges.
The prosecution also has the obligation to prove that the committed crime was completed by the defendant. If a defendant was coerced or falsely accused, the charges may be dropped, or the defendant may have an affirmative defense.
Due to the severity of the punishments for this crime, hiring a wise criminal defense lawyer is crucial. An experienced online solicitation of a minor lawyer will provide a defendant with competent legal counsel. Houston criminal attorney Rand Mintzer has been successfully handling cases since 1984. To learn about the legal options for your sex crime charge, schedule a free consultation with Rand Mintzer, Attorney at Law at 713-862-8880.