Facing a grand jury indictment for a child sex offense in North Texas, whether in Collin, Dallas, Denton, Grayson, Rockwall, Tarrant, or Fannin County, is only the beginning of a complex legal process. Understanding the court procedures, from initial appearances to trial preparation, is crucial to building a robust defense and protecting your future.
After an indictment, the case moves into the court system, starting with initial appearances and progressing through plea negotiations, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial. Here’s what to expect:
Initial Court Dates
Once an indictment is filed, the court sets an initial appearance date. The accused must appear at all court settings in felony cases unless prior approval to be absent is granted by the court. At these early court dates, defense counsel obtains discovery—the evidence the prosecution intends to present. This includes:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Video interviews
- Forensic reports (e.g., DNA or fingerprint analysis)
- Text and social media messages, email, phone records, and cell tower records used to place the accused at a particular place and time.
In cases involving child accusers, discovery efforts may also extend to obtaining records such as the child’s medical history, school records, counseling records, CPS reports, and social media activity. These records can provide critical insight into the accuser’s background and may reveal inconsistencies or motivations that are vital to the defense.
At Gore Law, PLLC, Keith Gore meticulously examines this evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop a tailored defense strategy.
Plea Bargain Offers
Prosecutors often present plea bargain offers early in the court process. While the decision to accept or reject a plea lies solely with the client, it should be made only after thorough consultation with your attorney. Keith Gore ensures that clients fully understand their options and the potential consequences of each choice. However, pleading guilty should always be a last resort.
Guaranteed by the 6th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, the right to trial by jury is the cornerstone of our system of justice, ensuring fairness in our legal system. As Thomas Jefferson said, “I consider trial by jury as the only anchor ever yet imagined by man, by which a government can be held to the principles of its constitution.” Every effort should focus on preparing for a vigorous jury trial to ensure the best possible outcome.
Pre-Trial Motions
Pre-trial motions are an essential part of building a strong defense. These motions can include:
- Motion to Suppress Evidence: Seeks to exclude evidence obtained unlawfully, such as statements, DNA results, phone records, or fruits of search warrants. For example, under Article 38.23 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, evidence obtained in violation of the law cannot be used against the accused.
- Motion to Dismiss Charges: Requests dismissal of charges due to lack of evidence or procedural errors.
- Motion in Limine: Aims to limit or exclude certain evidence or testimony that could unfairly prejudice the jury.
- Motion for Change of Venue: Requests to move the trial to a different location due to pretrial publicity that might bias the jury.
- Motion to Compel Discovery: Demands the prosecution turn over evidence that may be critical to the defense.
- Motion for Separate Trials: Seeks to have co-defendants tried separately if their cases could conflict.
- Motion to Quash Indictment: Challenges the validity or sufficiency of the indictment.
- Motion for Expert Assistance: Requests court approval to hire expert witnesses at the state’s expense if the defendant cannot afford them.
- Motion to Challenge the State’s Experts: Requests the court to exclude or limit testimony from prosecution experts based on lack of qualifications or flawed methodology. Under Article 38.23 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, evidence obtained in violation of the law cannot be used against the accused.
Preparing for Trial
If the case proceeds to trial, preparation is critical. Keith Gore works closely with expert witnesses, private investigators, and co-counsel as needed to build a compelling defense. Every detail, from jury selection to cross-examination strategies, is carefully planned to maximize your chances of success.
Contact Gore Law, PLLC, Today
If you or a loved one are facing a charge like indecency with a child, sexual assault of a child, continuous sexual abuse of a child, or any offense involving a minor, in McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Celina, Anna, Melissa, Prosper, Denton, Rockwall or anywhere in North Texas, call Gore Law, PLLC, today at 972-529-2220 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.
