Sex Crimes Lawyer Lubbock
Nationally Recognized Trial Attorneys
At Keith & Lorfing, our sex crimes lawyer in Lubbock brings unique insight to your defense—managing partner Russell Lorfing previously served as a federal prosecutor in Lubbock.
That experience made him the only practicing criminal defense attorney in the region with federal prosecutorial experience. Being accused of a sex crime can destroy your life, reputation, and future in ways that other criminal charges simply cannot.
Speak with our Lubbock criminal defense lawyer today and protect your rights against aggressive prosecution.
Why Sex Crime Charges in Lubbock Are Different
Sex crime allegations carry a stigma unlike any other criminal charge. Even before a conviction, your reputation suffers irreparable damage within the Lubbock community.
The consequences extend far beyond potential jail time and fines—you face lifetime sex offender registration, employment restrictions, and social isolation that can last decades.
The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains comprehensive crime statistics showing that sex crime prosecutions have increased steadily in West Texas. These statistics reflect aggressive prosecution practices that demand equally aggressive defense representation.
⚠️ Allegations alone can damage reputations and careers, so early legal protection is essential even before formal charges.
Types of Sex Crimes We Defend in Lubbock
Sexual assault represents the most commonly prosecuted sex crime in Lubbock County. Under Texas Penal Code §22.011, prosecutors can pursue second-degree felony charges carrying 2-20 years in prison and $10,000 fines. However, numerous factors can elevate charges to first-degree felonies with life imprisonment possibilities.
Our defense team regularly handles these complex cases:
Adult-Related Offenses:
- Sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault
- Indecent exposure and invasive visual recording
- Prostitution-related charges
- Online solicitation cases
Child-Related Charges:
- Continuous sexual abuse of a child
- Indecency with a child by contact or exposure
- Improper relationship between the educator and the student
- Possession or distribution of child pornography
Federal Sex Crime Cases:
- Interstate trafficking offenses
- Federal child pornography charges
- Online exploitation across state lines
The Sex Offender Registry: A Lifetime Burden
Texas maintains one of the nation’s most restrictive sex offender registries. The Texas Sex Offender Registration Program requires detailed personal information, photographs, and regular reporting for periods ranging from 10 years to life, depending on the offense.
Registry consequences include:
| Restriction Type | Impact | Duration |
| Residency Limits | Cannot live within 1,000 feet of schools, playgrounds | Lifetime |
| Employment Barriers | Prohibited from numerous professions | Lifetime |
| Internet Presence | Name, address, photo publicly searchable | 10 years to life |
| Travel Restrictions | Must report location changes within 7 days | Varies by offense |
The registry creates a digital scarlet letter that follows you everywhere. Employers, landlords, neighbors, and community members can access your information with a simple online search. This public shame affects not only you but your entire family.
Russell Lorfing, our managing partner and former federal prosecutor, has insider knowledge of how prosecutors build cases, giving our clients essential advantages in avoiding conviction and registry placement.
💰 Registration impacts housing, jobs, and family life indefinitely—making prevention of conviction the highest priority.
How Lubbock Prosecutors Build Sex Crime Cases
Local prosecutors follow predictable patterns when building sex crime cases. They rely heavily on emotional testimony, circumstantial evidence, and the assumption that accusers never lie.
Our defense approach counters each prosecutorial tactic through independent investigations, challenging evidence collection methods, and exposing inconsistencies in testimony.
Prosecution Tactics Include:
- Interviewing alleged victims multiple times to create consistent stories
- Collecting digital evidence from phones, computers, and social media
- Using forensic interviews designed to elicit incriminating statements
- Presenting character evidence to paint defendants as predators
Evidence They Prioritize:
- Text messages and social media communications
- Witness testimony about the defendant’s behavior
- Medical examination results (often inconclusive)
- Prior allegations or “pattern” evidence
West Texas Tough Defense Strategies
Our “West Texas Tough” approach means fighting every aspect of the prosecution’s case. We don’t accept plea bargains that destroy our clients’ lives when the evidence doesn’t support a conviction.
Investigative Excellence:
- Hiring private investigators to uncover exculpatory evidence
- Analyzing digital forensics to challenge prosecution evidence
- Interviewing witnesses before the police contaminate their testimony
- Reconstructing timelines to establish alibis
Legal Strategy:
- Filing motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence
- Challenging victim credibility through cross-examination
- Presenting alternative theories consistent with evidence
- Negotiating with prosecutors from positions of strength
Courtroom Advocacy:
- Selecting juries sympathetic to defense arguments
- Presenting compelling opening statements that frame the narrative
- Cross-examining prosecution witnesses to expose weaknesses
- Delivering closing arguments that create reasonable doubt
✔️ Success comes from combining investigative depth, legal motions, and courtroom advocacy rather than relying on plea deals.
The Investigation Process: What to Expect
Sex crime investigations in Lubbock follow specific procedures that can either help or harm your case. Law enforcement typically begins with interviews of the alleged victim, followed by attempts to question you.
This is the most dangerous phase for defendants, as statements made to police often become the foundation for prosecution cases.
Police will seek search warrants for your home, vehicles, computers, and mobile devices. They may request DNA samples, photographs, and other physical evidence.
Electronic evidence often becomes essential, as prosecutors use text messages, emails, and browsing history to establish intent and opportunity.
Our firm intervenes immediately upon contact, often before formal charges are filed. Early representation allows us to prevent damaging statements to law enforcement, monitor investigations for constitutional compliance, and preserve exculpatory evidence that police might overlook.
Schedule a free consultation with our Abilene criminal defense lawyer to discuss your case and start building your defense strategy.
Texas Sex Crime Penalties
Texas imposes some of the harshest sex crime penalties in the nation. Conviction consequences extend far beyond imprisonment, creating lifelong collateral damage that affects employment, housing, education, and personal relationships.
| Offense Level | Prison Term | Fine | Registry Period |
| State Jail Felony | 180 days – 2 years | Up to $10,000 | 10+ years |
| Third-Degree Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $10,000 | 10+ years |
| Second-Degree Felony | 2 – 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Lifetime |
| First-Degree Felony | 5 – 99 years / Life | Up to $10,000 | Lifetime |
Enhanced Penalties Apply When:
- Victims are under 14 years old
- Defendants have prior convictions
- Offenses involve weapons or serious injury
- Cases include multiple victims
Collateral Consequences Include:
- Permanent criminal record affecting background checks
- Ineligibility for professional licenses
- Restrictions on child custody and visitation rights
- Deportation risks for non-citizens
- Loss of voting rights and Second Amendment rights
📌 Penalty ranges vary from probation to life in prison, but collateral consequences like custody loss or deportation amplify the damage.
Common Defense Strategies That Work
Successful sex crime defense requires comprehensive strategies that address legal, factual, and emotional aspects of each case.
- Consent Defense: In adult cases, establishing consent can completely negate criminal liability. This defense requires careful documentation of the relationship, communications between parties, and the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident.
- False Allegation Defense: False accusations occur more frequently in sex crime cases than in other criminal matters. Motivations include revenge, custody disputes, financial gain, or mental health issues. Successful false allegation defenses require thorough investigation of the accuser’s background, motivations, and credibility.
- Insufficient Evidence: Prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Many sex crime cases rely primarily on uncorroborated testimony, circumstantial evidence, and speculation. Our experienced defense attorneys identify evidence gaps and argue that uncertainty requires acquittal.
- Constitutional Violations: Police often violate defendants’ constitutional rights during sex crime investigations. Illegal searches, coercive interrogations, and due process violations can result in evidence suppression or case dismissal.
- Mental Health Defenses: Some cases involve defendants with mental health issues that affect their capacity or intent. These defenses require expert testimony and comprehensive psychological evaluation, but they can result in treatment rather than imprisonment.
Why Choose Keith & Lorfing for Sex Crime Defense
Our Lubbock sex crime defense practice combines local courtroom knowledge with sophisticated defense strategies typically found only in major metropolitan areas.
- Russell Lorfing’s Prosecutorial Background: As a former federal prosecutor, Russell has insider knowledge that allows him to anticipate prosecution strategies and develop counter-narratives that undermine their arguments. His prosecutorial credentials also provide credibility with judges and juries who trust his assessment of evidence.
- Trey Keith’s Trial Experience: Founding partner Trey Keith has tried over 200 criminal cases, including dozens of sex crime defenses. His courtroom skills and local reputation make him formidable opposition for any prosecutor.
- Comprehensive Defense Team: Our support staff includes experienced investigators, paralegals, and expert witnesses who contribute to every case. This team approach ensures no detail is overlooked and every defense angle is explored thoroughly.
- Local Court Knowledge: We know the judges, prosecutors, and court personnel in every West Texas jurisdiction. This knowledge allows us to predict judicial preferences, prosecutor tendencies, and jury pool characteristics that influence case outcomes.
💼 Our combined team of former prosecutors, trial lawyers, and investigators ensures credibility in court and resilience in strategy.
The Importance of Immediate Legal Representation
Time is your enemy when facing sex crime allegations. Every day without legal representation increases the risk of permanent damage to your case and future. Our emergency response protocol begins the moment you contact our firm.
Why Immediate Action Matters:
- Evidence deteriorates or disappears without preservation efforts
- Witnesses forget details or become influenced by others
- Prosecution narratives solidify without challenge
- Constitutional violations become harder to prove over time
- Public opinion forms based on initial reports
What We Do Immediately:
- Assign our experienced attorney to your case
- Begin evidence preservation efforts
- Contact law enforcement to assert your rights
- Advise you on interactions with police and prosecutors
- Start investigating potential defenses
Protecting Your Reputation During Sex Crime Cases
Sex crime allegations create immediate reputational damage that can persist long after legal proceedings conclude. Modern sex crime cases often become public knowledge through online court records, news articles, and social media posts.
Our Reputation Management Includes:
- Working with specialists to minimize negative online presence
- Developing media strategies that protect your reputation
- Helping clients manage community reactions
- Providing employers with context to preserve employment
- Addressing family needs while focusing on legal defense
Small-town dynamics in West Texas mean sex crime allegations can destroy personal and professional relationships overnight. We help clients maintain dignity and legal protection throughout the process.
✔️ Many sex crime cases collapse under scrutiny, but only with experienced, aggressive counsel from the very start.
Don’t Let False Accusations Destroy Your Life
Sex crime allegations represent the most serious threat to your freedom, reputation, and future that you will ever face. The consequences of conviction extend far beyond prison sentences, creating lifetime barriers to employment, housing, relationships, and community acceptance.
At Keith & Lorfing, we understand that our clients are hardworking West Texans who deserve vigorous advocacy when facing life’s most challenging crises.
Our West Texas Tough approach means we fight for every client with the same determination we’d want for our own family members.
Your future depends on the decisions you make today. Call Keith & Lorfing at (325) 480-8100 now for immediate legal protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Sex Crimes Lawyer in Lubbock?
Sex crimes defense costs vary widely based on case complexity, with fees typically ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 or more for serious felonies. Many attorneys offer payment plans to make quality representation accessible. At Keith & Lorfing, we provide transparent pricing during consultations and work with clients to structure affordable payment arrangements that fit their financial situation.
What's the Difference Between State and Federal Sex Crime Charges?
State charges are prosecuted in Texas courts for offenses occurring within state boundaries, while federal charges involve crimes crossing state lines, using the internet, or occurring on federal property. Federal cases typically carry harsher penalties and require attorneys experienced in federal court procedures. Russell Lorfing’s background as a federal prosecutor gives our clients unique advantages in both jurisdictions.
Can I Get My Sex Crime Charges Dismissed Before Trial in Lubbock?
Yes, charges can be dismissed through various legal strategies, including insufficient evidence motions, constitutional violations, prosecutorial misconduct, or plea negotiations. Early intervention by our experienced attorneys significantly improves dismissal chances. We’ve successfully achieved dismissals in numerous cases by identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and filing strategic motions before formal charges are filed.
Will I Have to Register as a Sex Offender If I Take a Plea Deal?
Most sex crime plea agreements still require sex offender registration, even for reduced charges. Registration periods range from 10 years to a lifetime, depending on the specific offense. Before accepting any plea deal, it’s essential to understand all consequences, including registration requirements, residency restrictions, and employment limitations. Our attorneys negotiate aggressively to avoid registration whenever possible.
How Soon Should I Call a Sex Crimes Defense Attorney in Lubbock?
Contact our attorney immediately upon learning of an investigation or accusation, ideally before speaking with law enforcement. The first 48 hours are critical for preserving evidence, protecting constitutional rights, and preventing damaging statements. Waiting until formal charges are filed significantly reduces our attorney’s ability to influence the case outcome and protect your interests effectively.
The Best
In the West
Our every action is driven by a deep-seated commitment to fighting for hardworking Texans. Each client we represent and every case we undertake reflects our dedication to ensuring fairness and justice.
Our roots run deep in West Texas. Many of our attorneys hail from modest backgrounds, with family histories steeped in professions like farming, mechanics, labor, firefighting, and military service. These humble beginnings instilled in us the value of hard work, a principle we uphold daily.
We consciously choose to stand with the everyday people rather than corporations or the elite. Our focus is on representing dedicated, family-oriented Texans who aspire to provide a better future for their children. This often means challenging big insurance companies that attempt to undercut rightful claims. 
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Russell Lorfing
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We’re committed to being the best in the West! Proudly serving clients throughout Abilene, Lubbock, San Angelo, Midland & all of West Texas.