Bryan Sexual Assault Attorneys

Our society rightly takes crimes of a sexual nature seriously. Honest concerns exist about offenses like rape, assault, and the exploitation of minors. However, many people mistakenly assume that the seriousness of an accusation always matches guilt — or that the alleged crime actually took place.

Anyone seeking a sexual assault lawyer in Bryan, College Station, or throughout Brazos County should look for a team committed to core values like presuming innocence and upholding due process. You need confidence that your legal representation has the skills to advocate effectively in court. When individuals charged with sexual assault come to James, Reynolds & Ask, they discover a team who offers all that and more.

Call our office today at (979) 227-3305 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. 

Credentials That Set Our Firm Apart

In cases involving serious allegations such as sexual assault, experience and professional standing carry significant weight in the courtroom. James, Reynolds & Ask brings together attorneys whose credentials demonstrate proven dedication to criminal defense and respect within the Texas legal community.

The firm’s distinctions include:

• Three Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialists. Certification by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization represents advanced trial experience, peer evaluation, and tested knowledge. Few defense firms in Texas hold this level of concentrated expertise.
• Recognition by Super Lawyers®. Attorneys at the firm have been selected for inclusion based on professional achievement and peer recognition within the Texas legal community.
• Highest Martindale-Hubbell Rating. Founding Partner James W. James, III holds the top peer-review rating for legal ability and ethics, reinforcing the firm’s reputation for integrity.
• Leadership Across the Legal Field. Partners have led the Brazos County Bar Association, served on statewide associations, and earned recognition among the Top 100 National Criminal Defense Attorneys.

How to Challenge a Sexual Assault Charge

Each sexual assault case is unique, so there is no universal solution. Your defense strategy will be determined after we review the details of your situation during the initial consultation.

We keep these core principles in mind as we create a defense plan: 

• The advance of science has benefited many wrongly accused defendants in sexual assault cases because DNA evidence is often present.
• If your DNA does not match what investigators found at the scene, the prosecutor faces real challenges in court.
• The principle of "innocent until proven guilty" still controls, even when community empathy is strong for alleged victims.
• Jurors must vote to acquit when they doubt guilt. The law requires all 12 jurors to reach a unanimous verdict of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

With years defending clients across Brazos County, we've observed that local prosecutors sometimes make mistakes in collecting or interpreting evidence. Law enforcement agencies can miss inconsistencies in witness accounts or rush through critical steps due to heavy caseloads. These errors give us important opportunities to question the state's case.

These are just a few ways our legal defense team challenges the prosecution. Our law firm, serving this community since 1983, knows that success comes from careful attention and persistent effort at every stage of the case.

The Arrest Process & Your Rights in Brazos County

When a sexual assault allegation arises in Bryan or elsewhere in Brazos County, the process often begins before a full investigation is complete. Officers may make contact at a home, workplace, or campus setting to question or arrest the accused. From that moment, what happens next can influence every stage of the case.

At James, Reynolds & Ask, we guide clients through this early phase with urgency and precision. Our attorneys ensure that your rights are respected, that no statement is taken out of context, and that law enforcement follows the required procedures. 

After an arrest, individuals are typically transported to the Brazos County Jail for booking and then appear before a judge for arraignment, where bail and case scheduling are determined. Our team’s familiarity with local arrest protocols, courthouse practices, and law enforcement procedures allows us to intervene quickly and protect clients from missteps that can affect the rest of the case.

Student & Campus-Related Sexual Assault Cases

Bryan and College Station are home to Texas A&M University and Blinn College, which means student involvement in sexual assault allegations is common. These situations often unfold in both the criminal court system and through the school's disciplinary process under Title IX.

Disciplinary hearings at schools operate with procedures that are separate from Texas courts. They have their own evidence standards, faster timelines, and different consequences. Even if there is no criminal conviction, school rulings can result in discipline such as suspension, expulsion, or academic penalties before any verdict is reached. 

Navigating both the legal and academic processes at once can be overwhelming. At James, Reynolds & Ask, our attorneys have extensive experience helping students understand these overlapping issues, including what to expect if your case is reviewed by campus administrators and the local courts.

Penalties for Sexual Assault in Texas

The Texas Penal Code classifies most sexual assault offenses as second-degree felonies. Certain circumstances may lead to charges as a first-degree felony, especially if violence is alleged.

Penalties for these convictions reshape a person's future. A conviction can affect your ability to find housing, damage your career, and trigger ongoing notification requirements for those residing in or around Bryan.

Most second-degree felony convictions carry terms between 2 and 20 years in prison. First-degree felony charges — often filed in cases with evidence of violence or very young victims — result in even stricter sentences if convicted by a jury.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can a sexual assault defense lawyer help me?

A defense lawyer will thoroughly review the specifics of your case, identify weaknesses in the evidence, and build a tailored defense strategy. This might include questioning the credibility of witnesses, investigating potential false accusations, or challenging evidence gathered improperly. A skilled attorney is key to protecting your rights and navigating the legal process effectively.

What should I do if I’ve been accused of sexual assault?

Do not speak to law enforcement or anyone else about the allegations without consulting an attorney first. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact a qualified sexual assault defense lawyer immediately to start building your defense and preventing further legal challenges.

Will my case go to trial?

Not all sexual assault cases end up in trial. Many are resolved through plea agreements or may even be dismissed due to insufficient evidence. If your case does go to trial, your attorney will fully represent you in court and advocate for the best possible outcome.

Will being accused of sexual assault affect my job or personal life?

Being accused of sexual assault can have significant personal and professional consequences, even if you are not convicted. Employers, friends, or family might react to the accusation. A defense attorney can work to minimize the public’s knowledge of the case and help protect your reputation as much as possible.

What is the difference between sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault?

Aggravated sexual assault generally involves additional aggravating factors, such as using a weapon, causing serious physical injury, or targeting vulnerable individuals like children. Aggravated sexual assault carries harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.

Do I need an attorney even if I believe I am innocent?

Yes, even if you are innocent, it is critical to hire an experienced defense attorney. Sexual assault cases often rely on complex evidence and testimony, and the stakes are incredibly high. A lawyer will ensure your rights are protected and build a strong defense to clear your name.

How long does the legal process for a sexual assault case take?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. Some cases may resolve in a few months, while others might take over a year. Your attorney will keep you updated on the progress and help you prepare for each step.

What happens if the alleged victim does not want to press charges?

Once an accusation is made, the state may choose to prosecute the case regardless of the alleged victim’s wishes. The prosecutor will determine whether to move forward based on the evidence. Your attorney can work to challenge the prosecution's case and advocate for dismissal or reduced charges.

Are conversations with my attorney confidential?

Yes, attorney-client communications are confidential. You can feel comfortable sharing all details of your case with your lawyer, knowing that this information is protected and will not be shared without your consent.

Can I avoid jail time if I am charged with sexual assault?

Each case is unique, and avoiding jail time depends on factors such as the evidence, potential plea agreements, and the skill of your attorney. Your lawyer will explore all possible avenues, including reduced charges or alternative penalties, to help you avoid incarceration.