Indecency with a Child by Contact

Indecency with a Child by Contact

Certain acts of sexual molestation of a child under the age of 17 is defined as indecency of a child by contact under the Penal Code. The crime involves the touching of a minor’s genitals, anus, or breast of a minor under the age of 18 with the intent to arouse or gratify a person’s sexual urges. Indecency, whether by contact or exposure, is a serious crime if it involves a child. Conviction for the offense could result in serious penalties including jail and expensive fines.

If you or someone you know has been accused of indecency with a child by contact, call The Law Office of Jackson F. Gorski. Our experienced defense lawyer Jackson F. Gorski understands how serious these charges as well as defense strategies that are most effective to defend a person against them. With his skills, resources, and network, you can rest assured your case is in the best hands possible.

Austin Attorney for Indecency with a Child by Contact

If you’re facing charges of indecency involving a minor, you must act now. Don’t speak a word to law enforcement and exercise your right to not incriminate yourself under the U.S. constitution. Instead contact the seasoned criminal defense team at The Law Office of Jackson F. Gorski to start building your defense right away. There isn’t a lot of time, so you must act quickly. Every moment lost is a moment that could be contributed towards your defense.

Schedule your first consultation with The Law Office of Jackson F. Gorski by calling our firm at 512-960-4646. The Law Office of Jackson F. Gorski has various offices in Texas including Austin and Georgetown. They also accept clients throughout the various counties in the State of Texas including Travis County, Williamson County, Bell County, Hays County, Caldwell County, Bastrop County, Milam County, and Blanco County.


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What is Indecency with a Child by Contact in Texas?

Indecency with a child by contact is essentially a type of molestation not including sexual intercourse or deviate sexual intercourse. The crime is located under the Penal Code Section 21.1, which states indecency with a child by contact is defined as engaging in sexual contact with a child or causing a child to engage in sexual contact. The second half of the statute addresses the crime of indecency with a child by exposure.

Please note, the term “sexual contact” refers to any action committed with the intent to arouse or gratify a person by touching their genitals, anus, or breast. However, the act is not only reserved for those areas of the body. Any suggestive touching, over clothing or under clothing, can be deemed as sexual contact even if it’s not in an intimate area.


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Penalties for Indecency with a Child by Contact

Indecency with a child by contact is a much more serious charge than by exposure. The reason for this is because it’s technically a form of molestation and the harm done from it can be immense.  Indecency with a child by contact is a second-degree felony in Texas.

The maximum sentence a person can face for a second-degree felony includes:

  • Up to 20 years in prison
  • A fine of up to $10,000

Other aggravating or mitigating factors may play a role in the defendant’s sentencing. The nature of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history will play a huge part in the judge’s final decision as well. Some examples include if the offender has a history of sexual offenses, if they’re a first-time offender, if their actions were considered violent, whether the child knew them or trusted them, if the crime was committed under duress, etc.


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Additional Resources

Indecency with a Child | Texas Penal Code – Visit the official website for the Texas Penal Code to learn more about indecency with a child by exposure or by contact. Access the site to learn the elements, penalties, admissible defenses, and other important information.

Child Rescue Coalition – Visit the official website for the Child Rescue Coalition, which is a non-partisan and nonprofit that partners with child exploitation officers, forensic experts, and more.


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Indecency Defense Attorney in Austin, TX

If you or someone you know has been arrested for indecency with a child by contact or exposure, call The Law Office of Jackson F. Gorski. The defense team at The Law Office of Jackson F. Gorski understands how awful these charges can be to your standing in the community and reputation. That is why we will work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Schedule your first consultation with The Law Office of Jackson F. Gorski by calling 512-960-4646 or submitting an online contact form. The Law Office of Jackson F. Gorski has offices in Austin and Georgetown, Texas.


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