Sexual Assault of a Child Defense in Ellis County
Board-Certified Criminal Defense for Serious Child-Sex-Offense Allegations
An accusation involving a child can upend every part of your life before a single charge is filed. Investigations move quickly, and the decisions you make in the first hours matter. We represent people in Ellis County who are under investigation or facing charges for sexual assault of a child, from the earliest contact with law enforcement through felony-court proceedings.
Attorney Michael J. Crawford is board certified in criminal law by the State Bar of Texas and has handled more than 200 jury trials. Our office is located close to the Ellis County courthouse, so we can act without delay when an investigation or arrest arises. Every consultation is confidential.
If you or a family member is facing an investigation or charge in Ellis County or Navarro County, call (214) 903-7722 now to speak with our defense team.
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Our Satisfied Clients
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“Eager to help, knew the law, honest, and stands by his word.”
Michael Crawford is awesome. He is by far the best defense mechanism We've seen around this town n a very long time if evr.exactly what we needed.he was so eager to help, knew the law, honest, and stands by his word. He actually works for u, his client. Even if court-appointed he seems to give 110%. Just imagine what he would do if he was getting paid. He shows me money is not everything! He is really in it to HELP his clients. My opinion is Micheal Crawford is a one of a kind lawyer.- Becky -
“Michael is not just my attorney, he is also my friend now because he is just that nice of a person.”
Michael J. Crawford is a graduate of Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law in Dallas. He chose to open his own law practice in his hometown of Kerens in lieu of practicing with a big firm in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. He works hard for clients. He is known as the "Blue Collar Lawyer" because he gives 110% effort for every client. I was very impressed with his professionalism, understanding, and expression of sincerity while he was handling my case. Michael is not just my attorney, he is also my friend now because he is just that nice of a person. Thanks, Michael for protecting my rights.- Jaclynn -
“Not only does he care about his client, but he will also care for your family and keep them aware.”
“- JohnIf you want a lawyer that will pour his extensive knowledge of the law and the people of Navarro County into your case, this is the lawyer for you.
He stood up to the small town Justice System, that continually beat him down, but not once gave up
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“As a satisfied client, I highly recommend Michael J. Crawford.”
- Former ClientMr. Crawford was able to represent my wishes and balance that with a sensible plan while taking the appropriate time to compassionately explain the process to me, answer all my questions and really listen to my concerns. Mr. Crawford was honest, knowledgeable, and aggressively fought for a successful outcome.
As a satisfied client, I highly recommend Michael J. Crawford.
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“If u need someone he would be the one to use!!!”
He does a really great job!!! very smart!! will help u in any wy!! love what he's doing!!!this is the kinda lawyer we been needing here in this area!!! the other lawyer all play along with the other lawyer but Micheal stand along an get the job done!! he has a great staff that has it so simple for him!! if u need someone he would be the one to use!!!- Timothy -
“It was obvious at every moment of the trial that he was there to defend his client”
Mr. Crawford was the attorney for my nephew - I sat in court the 5 days of court - and observed Mr. Crawford for the entire trial - it was obvious at every moment of the trial that he was there to defend his client -- and defend, he did. He was wonderful!- Millie -
“He is very knowledgeable and passionate about the law.”
Mr. Crawford was awesome at handling my complex custody issues. Through the process, trumped-up charges were brought against me. Mr. Crawford was available over the weekend and at night at the peak of my issues when I needed him the most. His advice was on point and everything worked out like he advised it would. He is very knowledgable and passionate about the law. He doesn't just make deals. He fights for justice and wins.- Lance -
“He knows the people, he knows the law and will not let you down.”
Michael Crawford and his associates went above and beyond to help us with a very complex case resulting in a much more favorable divorce settlement than we ever thought would happen. He took a personal interest, showed compassion and understanding and his patience was that of Job. He is passionate about his work as well as fair, tough and blunt. He is aggressive and one time said, "I love to fight" -- exactly what I am looking for in a lawyer. I would recommend his office to anyone looking for a tough, smart lawyer. He knows the people, he knows the law and will not let you down.- lschnellmann
Attorney-Led Defense Grounded in Fifth-Generation Local Roots
Michael J. Crawford is a fifth-generation resident of Navarro and Ellis Counties. Ellis County’s felony district courts handle all felony criminal matters, including pre-indictment proceedings, jury trials, pleas, and other dispositions.
We don’t hand serious cases to junior staff. When you retain our firm, Crawford leads your defense.
Our approach centers on clear analysis, honest communication, and keeping you involved in the decisions that shape your case. We explain what the evidence shows, what the state must prove, and what options exist at each stage.
What a Sexual Assault of a Child Conviction Can Cost You
A conviction for a child-sex offense in Texas reaches well beyond prison time. Sex-offender registration, required for qualifying convictions, can last years or life depending on the offense and circumstances. The registration appears in public databases and affects where you can live, work, and travel.
The consequences that follow an accusation or conviction can include:
- Criminal penalties: Prison sentences ranging from years to life, depending on the charged offense and any enhancements
- Sex-offender registration: Duration and conditions depend on the offense and applicable Texas law
- CPS involvement: A child-sex-offense allegation often triggers a Child Protective Services investigation running parallel to the criminal case
- Family-law restrictions: No-contact orders can separate you from your children and home pending trial
- Professional licensing: Many licensed professions require disclosure of criminal charges and may suspend or revoke a license
- Employment and housing: Background checks, housing restrictions, and employer policies can create long-term barriers
These consequences differ by offense. The distinction between sexual assault of a child, aggravated sexual assault of a child, and continuous sexual abuse is not academic. The charging statute determines punishment range, registration obligations, and what defenses apply.
Immediate Steps After an Accusation or Arrest
How you respond in the early stages of an investigation can affect every stage that follows. These steps apply whether you’ve been contacted by a detective, served with a protective order, arrested, or released on bond.
- Exercise your right to remain silent: You have the constitutional right not to answer questions and to have an attorney present during any questioning. Invoking that right is not an admission.
- Don’t discuss the facts: Avoid talking about the allegations with anyone other than your attorney, including family members, friends, or coworkers.
- Stay off social media: Posts, messages, and search history can be reviewed by investigators and prosecutors. Stop all activity related to the case on any platform.
- Preserve documents and messages: Gather communications, records, and any materials that may be relevant. Don’t alter, delete, or conceal anything.
- Follow all bond and protective-order conditions: Violating conditions of bond or a protective order can result in additional charges and affect your case. Review every condition with counsel before acting.
- Contact a defense lawyer now: Representation before formal charges are filed can shape how an investigation develops. Whether you’ve been arrested or simply contacted, early legal advice matters.
Whether a specific request from law enforcement, CPS, or a court requires your compliance depends on the circumstances and should be reviewed with counsel before you respond.
Confidential Consultation for a Sensitive Allegation
Families dealing with a child-sex-offense accusation face one of the most difficult situations in the legal system. Our consultations are confidential, focused on protecting your rights, and free of judgment. We provide direct guidance about what the allegation means legally, what the next steps are, and how we can protect your rights at each stage.
We offer free initial consultations and serve Spanish-speaking clients. You can reach us by phone or text, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Don’t discuss case facts in a public message or comment. Call (214) 903-7722 to speak privately with our team.
Why Choose The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford?
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A Powerful Defense Team Working for You
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All Initial Consultations Are FREE of Charge
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Se Habla Español
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Board Certified as a Specialist in Criminal Law by Texas Board of Legal Specialization
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We Take Your Calls and Texts 24/7 - Here When You Need Us
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Client & Peer Reviewed 5 Stars for Quality Representation
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Handled over 5000 Cases and Over 350 Criminal Cases Taken to Jury Trials
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Extensive Courtroom Experience and Longstanding Reputation with Local Judges
How We Defend Sexual Assault of a Child Cases
Every case starts with the evidence: how it was gathered, whether procedures were followed, and what it actually shows. We review forensic interviews, medical records, phone records, digital evidence, and statements to identify inconsistencies, constitutional issues, and procedural problems that can affect what the state is permitted to use at trial.
Our defense process can include:
- Investigation-stage representation: Engaging before charges are filed to understand the investigation and protect your rights before charging decisions are made
- Bond and protective-order review: Analyzing conditions and seeking modifications when they are overly broad or constitutionally infirm
- Pretrial motions: Challenging the admissibility of evidence, statements, and forensic interview procedures
- Negotiations: Evaluating whether a resolution short of trial serves the client’s interests based on the evidence and the charged offense
- Trial preparation and trial: Building and presenting a defense before a jury in Ellis County’s felony district courts, which handle all Ellis County felony criminal proceedings
Our team includes attorneys, paralegals, a private investigator, and other qualified professionals who contribute to case evaluation and preparation. The sequence and duration of a case depend on the allegation, evidence, motions filed, and court scheduling. We keep clients informed at every stage so they can make the decisions that are theirs to make.
What Generally Happens at a First Court Date in Ellis County?
The first setting in an Ellis County felony case typically addresses bond conditions, basic rights, and scheduling of future proceedings. Appearing on time with counsel present is critical. The court may address whether existing bond or protective-order conditions need adjustment, and the case will be set for future hearings or a pretrial conference. Nothing about that first setting determines guilt or the final outcome, but missing it or appearing without representation can create problems that are difficult to correct.
Defense Credentials That Matter for This Charge
Sexual assault of a child carries severe potential penalties under Texas law. The defense requires documented trial experience, knowledge of the applicable statutes, and the resources to investigate independently and challenge the state’s evidence.
Our resources and credentials at The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford include:
- Board certification in criminal law by the State Bar of Texas
- More than 200 jury trials handled by Attorney Crawford
- Rising Stars recognition from 2016 through 2020 and publication in criminal-law publications from 2021 through 2025
- Fifth-generation Ellis and Navarro County roots and documented familiarity with local felony-court proceedings
- A full defense team including attorneys, paralegals, a private investigator, and professional support
- Free initial consultations and Spanish-language service available
- 24/7 availability by call or text
These credentials reflect experience and recognition, not a guaranteed result. Every case turns on its own facts, evidence, and the law as applied.