What does §21.12 cover?

Sexual relationships between school employees and enrolled students are prohibited regardless of age or consent.

Can a teacher date a student from another school?

If the student is not enrolled at the educator’s school, §21.12 may not apply, but other laws and policies can.

Penalties for violating §21.12?

A second-degree felony punishable by 2–20 years, fines up to $10,000, and possible registration depending on related charges.

How do investigations work?

Often start internally, then involve law enforcement and a review of digital evidence and interviews.

False allegations, lack of sexual contact, enrollment or jurisdiction issues, and procedural violations.

Teacher Sexual Misconduct Charges in Texas

Teacher / Educator Improper Sexual Relations with a Student Defense

Our Goal is NO criminal record & NO probation

Award Winning Texas Criminal Defense Law Firm Dunham & Jones, Attorneys at Law, P.C.

Best Attorneys of America awarded to firm 2018-2019, NACDA awarded to firm 2017, Veteran Approved award to firm in 2017, National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers to Paul Dunham 2014, Newsweek top attorneys 2013, Voted Best Law Firm Daily Texan 2008, Time Magazine award to firm in 2013, American Institute of Attorney 10 Best award to Firm in 2015

Teacher / Educator Improper Sexual Relations with a Student
Texas Penal Code §21.12

Overview of Improper Relationship between Educator and Student

Texas Penal Code §21.12 makes it a felony for a school employee to engage in sexual conduct with an enrolled student, even if the student is 18 or older. These allegations can end a career overnight and trigger parallel criminal and administrative actions. Dunham & Jones provides discreet, aggressive defense for educators and school staff accused under §21.12 (Improper Relationship between Educator and Student).

Law & Scope for Improper Relationship between Educator and Student

Applies to teachers, coaches, administrators, contractors, and others who work with students at the school. Consent is not a defense due to the power dynamic.

Penalties for Improper Relationship between Educator and Student

Second-degree felony: 2–20 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
Loss of certification and employment
Possible sex offender registration depending on companion charges

Common Defenses for Improper Relationship between Educator and Student

No sexual contact / misinterpretation of communications
False allegations or coercive interviews
Enrollment/jurisdiction issues
Procedural violations in the investigation

Crimes Against Children • Sexual Assault of a Child • Indecency with a Child • Sexual Exploitation

Contact Dunham & Jones Today

Under investigation as an educator for an improper relationship between educator and student? Dunham & Jones acts quickly to protect your rights, career, and reputation. Call 800-499-8455 for a confidential free consultation to discuss your case.