Voyeurism
Any criminal case that contains accusations that are sexual in nature is prosecuted harshly in the State of Texas. Offenses such as child pornography, invasive visual record, rape, and voyeurism all come with significant penalties such as imprisonment and steep fines.
Voyeurism involves becoming sexually aroused by watching an unsuspecting person who is disrobing, naked, or engaged in sexual activity. If you have been charged with this crime, it is vital that you contact an experienced sex offense lawyer in Texas who can begin working on repairing your reputation and preserving your freedom.
Texas Voyeurism Defense Attorney
If you were arrested for an alleged voyeurism offense in Texas, it will be in your best interest to retain experienced legal counsel as soon as possible. Brian Benken at The Benken Law Firm is a competent sex crimes attorney that has provided vigorous and zealous defense to hundreds of individuals in Texas. He can fight for your rights and seek to have your charges reduced or dismissed.
Call The Benken Law Firm today at (713) 223 – 4051 to set up your first consultation which is free of charge. The Benken Law Firm accepts clients throughout the greater Houston area including Lawndale, River Oaks, Hedwig Village, Great East End, and many others. He also accepts clients in all parts of Harris County and throughout the state of Texas.
Information Center
- Voyeurism Charges in Texas
- Collateral Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction in Texas
- Additional Resources
Voyeurism Charges in Texas
Under Texas Penal Code 21.17, an individual commits voyeurism if he or she, with the intent to arouse or gratify their own sexual desire, observes another person without the other person’s consent. The statute specifies the other person must be in a dwelling or structure in which they have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Voyeurism is a class C misdemeanor that is punishable by up to $500 in fines. If the defendant has two or more prior convictions, then the crime is escalated to a class B misdemeanor which is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and up to $2,000 in fines. Voyeurism can also be classified as a state jail felony if the victim is a child younger than 14 years.
Collateral Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction in Texas
Any sex crime can be a serious criminal offense exposing a defendant to significant prison time. Although a criminal conviction can come with jail or prison time and financial penalties, it’s important to note those are not all the consequences.
Some of the most common collateral consequences that a sex offender can face after their conviction include:
- Inability to obtain employment
- Immigration issues, including deportation
- Loss of voting rights
- Loss of the right to possess a gun
- Loss of professional licenses
- Loss of a current job
- Limits on traveling to other countries
- Eligibility for housing
Additional Resources
Texas Penal Code: Voyeurism – Follow the link provided to access the official website for the Texas Penal Code where you can read section 21.17 titled “voyeurism.” You can view penalties for the offense and how the crime can be escalated to a higher degree.
Texas Sex Offender Registration – Access the official website for the Texas Department of Public Safety which lists information regarding the Texas Sex Offender Registration Program. You can view frequently asked questions and other important information.
Houston Voyeurism Lawyer | Harris County, TX
If you or someone you know has been arrested for voyeurism, contact The Benken Law Firm. Attorney Brian Benken has over three decades of experience defending people from all types of sex crimes. He can assess the facts of your case and develop a formidable defense for you.
To schedule a time to speak with Brian Benken more about your case, call (713) 223 – 4051. The Benken Law Firm defends clients in all communities in Harris County and surrounding counties.
