When traumatic experiences occur, understanding how the law defines them can matter greatly. Two terms often used—sexual assault and sexual abuse—can overlap in everyday language but carry distinct meanings in legal settings. If you’re facing questions about your rights, talking to a sexual assault attorney in Dallas can provide clarity and protect you every step of the way.

What Is Sexual Assault?

Legally, sexual assault refers to any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior. It can involve touching, penetration, coercion, threats, force, or taking advantage of someone who is incapacitated. This term is most commonly used in legal codes to describe offenses involving adults or individuals recognized as capable of consenting.

Texas law defines sexual assault as “an actor intentionally or knowingly causing the penetration of the anus or sexual organ of another person by any means, without the other person’s consent” or when the victim is unable to consent.

What Is Sexual Abuse?

Sexual abuse often refers to abusive sexual behavior involving someone unable to give legal consent or a pattern of non-consensual acts over time. It may include ongoing molestation, exploitation, or coercion, particularly in cases involving minors or those incapacitated.

In many jurisdictions, “child sexual abuse” covers any sexual act with a minor, regardless of purported consent, because minors cannot legally consent. The offense often involves repeated acts, imbalances of power, and long-term harm.

Key Legal Differences: Age, Consent, and Patterns

Though the lines can blur, here are the primary distinctions:

Sexual Assault

  • Victim’s age: Typically adults or those capable of consent
  • Consent: Absence of consent (force, coercion, incapacitation)
  • Occurrence: Often single, isolated incidents (e.g., forcible rape)

Sexual Abuse

  • Victim’s age: Usually minors or incapacitated person
  • Consent: Always non-consensual (legal incapacity or power dynamics)
  • Occurrence: Frequently repeated or ongoing (e.g., molestation, grooming)

Understanding how these categories intersect is vital. A sexual assault attorney in Dallas can explain how your situation maps onto legal definitions and which charges may apply.

Why the Distinction Matters

Charges & Sentencing

Adults charged with aggravated sexual assault in Texas face 5–99 years or life in prison, while continuous sexual abuse of a child has distinct, severe penalties (often 25–99 years, no parole).

Statutes of Limitations

Some states extend or eliminate statutes of limitations for child sexual abuse, enabling prosecution many years later.

Evidence & Legal Strategy

Ongoing abuse cases may require different evidence, while single-incident cases may focus on forensic kits and direct evidence.

Healing Beyond the Courtroom

Sexual trauma leaves emotional and psychological scars. Survivors deserve:

  • Medical care: forensic exams, STD testing, and injury treatment.
  • Mental health support: therapy to address trauma, PTSD, isolation, and shame.
  • Legal protection: restraining orders, protective measures, and guidance through reporting, courts, and recovery.

Survivors’ rights, including rape kit preservation and notification, are protected by federal and Texas law. You don’t have to face this alone. A compassionate sexual assault attorney in Dallas can connect you with the resources and care you need.

How Goff Law Can Help You Move Forward

Goff Law in Dallas combines fierce legal advocacy with deep empathy. We:

  • Offer personalized attention, treating you as a person—not just a case.
  • Build strong evidence-based cases, working with experts, advocates, and forensic analysts.
  • Pursue criminal charges, civil suits, protective orders, and victim compensation.
  • Provide ongoing support, guiding you through every step; from reporting to resolution.

Whether navigating criminal justice, civil claims, or recovery resources, Goff Law stands by your side. Our proven record of successful sexual assault and abuse cases shows a commitment to justice and to you.

If your life has been impacted by sexual violence, get the support and guidance you deserve. Reach out to us at Goff Law and start your journey to justice and recovery.