Before proceeding, please review the  legal disclaimer.

Sexual Coercion Law in Texas: What You Need to Know

Sexual coercion is a serious and deeply damaging form of abuse. While it may not always involve physical force, it can be just as harmful—emotionally, psychologically, and legally. In Texas, sexual coercion is addressed through a combination of criminal statutes and civil protections.

In this article, we break down what sexual coercion law means in Texas, how victims are protected, and what legal recourse may be available.

What Is Sexual Coercion?

Sexual coercion occurs when someone pressures, manipulates, or threatens another person into engaging in sexual acts. Unlike sexual assault, which often involves physical force or the inability to consent, coercion involves emotional, psychological, or situational pressure.

Examples of sexual coercion include:

• Threatening job loss unless someone engages in sex
  
  
• Using authority or influence to pressure sexual compliance
  
  
• Blackmailing someone with personal or sensitive information
  
  
• Repeated unwanted sexual advances despite refusal
  
  
• Offering promotions, grades, or housing in exchange for sex
  
  

⚠️ Important: Consent obtained through coercion is not true consent under the law.

Is Sexual Coercion a Crime in Texas?

Yes—in some circumstances.

Under the Texas Penal Code:

Sexual coercion may fall under laws related to:

• Sexual Assault (Sec. 22.011)
  
  
• Official Oppression (Sec. 39.03)
  
  
• Indecent Assault (Sec. 22.012)
  
  
• Improper Relationship Between Educator and Student (Sec. 21.12)
  
  
• Sexual Harassment in the Workplace (via federal statutes)
  
  

Each law addresses different forms of coercion based on the relationship between the parties (e.g., employer/employee, public official/citizen, teacher/student).

How Sexual Coercion Differs from Sexual Harassment or Assault

💡 In some cases, coercion can overlap with harassment and assault, depending on the situation.

Examples of Sexual Coercion Under Texas Law

• A manager threatening to fire an employee unless they agree to a sexual relationship
  
  
• A landlord offering rent discounts in exchange for sex
  
  
• A public official threatening to revoke a permit or service without sexual favors
  
  
• A teacher coercing a student into intimacy under the guise of mentorship
  
  
• A romantic partner using threats or manipulation to force sex
  
  

Legal Consequences of Sexual Coercion

Criminal Penalties

Depending on the circumstances, charges could range from:

• Class A Misdemeanors (Indecent Assault)
  
  
• State Jail Felonies (Official Oppression)
  
  
• Second-degree Felonies (Sexual Assault)
  
  

Convictions may include:

• Jail or prison time
  
  
• Fines
  
  
• Mandatory sex offender registration
  
  
• Loss of employment or professional licenses
  
  

Civil Lawsuits

Victims of sexual coercion can also file civil claims for:

• Emotional distress
  
  
• Lost income or job opportunities
  
  
• Medical or therapy costs
  
  
• Punitive damages
  
  

A lawyer can help you decide whether a civil lawsuit is appropriate and whether it can be brought alongside or instead of criminal charges.

What Should You Do If You’ve Been Sexually Coerced?

1. Document Everything – Save texts, emails, notes, or messages related to the coercion.
   
   
2. Report the Incident – To HR (if workplace related), to law enforcement, or to a school authority.
   
   
3. Seek Support – Contact a counselor or support organization for emotional care.
   
   
4. Talk to a Lawyer – An attorney can help determine if your case qualifies under Texas law for civil or criminal action.
   
   

Are There Statutes of Limitations?

Yes. Like most legal claims, sexual coercion-related actions have deadlines for filing:

• Criminal charges – Depending on severity, from 2 years (misdemeanors) to no limit (for certain felonies)
  
  
• Civil lawsuits – Typically 2 years from the date of the incident
  
  

⏳ Don’t wait—consult a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Can You Sue an Employer for Sexual Coercion?

Yes. If the coercion occurred in the workplace and involved someone in a position of power—like a supervisor, manager, or executive—you may be able to file a Title VII sexual harassment claim under federal law or a claim under Texas Labor Code Chapter 21.

In some cases, an employer may be liable even if they weren’t directly involved, especially if they failed to act after a report was made.

How The Lange Firm Can Help

At The Lange Firm, we provide compassionate, confidential support to individuals affected by sexual coercion. We can:

• Help you understand your legal rights
  
  
• Investigate the incident
  
  
• File reports and represent you in claims
  
  
• Pursue damages in civil court
  
  
• Protect you from retaliation or public exposure
  
  

🛑 No one should feel pressured, threatened, or manipulated into intimacy. If you’re unsure what to do, we’ll guide you through your next steps with care and clarity.

Final Takeaway

Sexual coercion is not just unethical—it may be criminal and civilly actionable. If you’ve been subjected to coercive behavior, you don’t have to suffer in silence.

Contact The Lange Firm for a private consultation to explore your legal options and reclaim your power.