What is the punishment for sexual assault without any enhancements according to Texas Penal Code?

In Texas, the punishment for sexual assault, as defined by the Texas Penal Code, is classified as a second-degree felony when there are no enhancements involved. This classification establishes that the crime is considered serious but does not reach the severity of first-degree felonies, which involve more aggravated circumstances or repeat offenses.

A second-degree felony carries a possible punishment of 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine, reflecting the legal system's acknowledgment that sexual assault is a grave offense warranting significant legal consequences.

Understanding the legal framework surrounding sexual assault illustrates the state's commitment to addressing such serious crimes while also allowing for distinctions in sentencing based on the nature and context of the offense. This classification also serves to appropriately guide law enforcement, prosecutors, and judicial decisions concerning cases of sexual assault in Texas.