Columbia Sexual Assault Lawyers
Albers & Associates: Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys
Sexual assault is a serious crime that can result in life-altering consequences for the victim. In Maryland, sexual assault is defined as any type of sexual contact or behavior that is unwanted, nonconsensual, and/or aggressive.
At Albers & Associates, our Columbia sexual assault attorneys are committed to protecting the rights of victims and helping them obtain the justice they deserve. If you have been charged with sexual assault, you need to contact our firm immediately to schedule a consultation.
Call us at (443) 665-8030 or use our online contact form.
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in MD?
In Maryland, sexual assault is categorized as a felony offense. The penalties for this crime can vary widely depending on the specifics of the case and the victim's circumstances. However, in most cases, the convicted party will face severe consequences including incarceration, fines, and a criminal record.
Depending on the circumstances of the case, Maryland sexual assault charges can result in:
- Misdemeanor convictions: Up to five years in jail, up to $2,500 in fines, or both
- Felony convictions: 10 years to life in prison, up to $5,000 in fines, or both
- Life sentences: Life in prison with the possibility of parole after 15 years
In some cases, the victim may choose not to press charges. Even if the victim does not wish to pursue criminal charges, the victim may still have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the abuser. An experienced Columbia sexual assault lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.
What Is the Legal Definition of Sexual Assault?
Maryland's legal definition of sexual assault focuses on the idea of consent. In order to be considered sexual assault, sexual contact must be non-consensual. If the victim gives consent, then the contact is not sexual assault. This means that sexual assault is different from rape, which is defined as non-consensual sexual contact regardless of whether the victim consented.
Sexual contact is any type of physical contact that is sexual in nature. This can include sexual intercourse, oral sex, or any other type of sexual activity. If the sexual contact is aggressive, such as forced intercourse, then the charges can be especially severe.
Sexual assault does not have to involve sexual intercourse.
In Maryland, sexual assault charges can result from:
- Sexual contact: Any type of sexual contact that is unwanted and nonconsensual
- Aggressive sexual contact: Any type of sexual contact that is unwanted, nonconsensual, and aggressive
- Sexual contact with a minor: Any type of sexual contact with a minor, even if the minor consented
- Sexual contact with a disabled person: Any type of sexual contact with a disabled person, even if the disabled person consented
What Are the Common Defenses to Sexual Assault?
There are many different defenses to sexual assault charges. An experienced Columbia sexual assault lawyer can help you identify the defenses that are most applicable to your case.
Common defenses to sexual assault charges include:
- Incapacitation: The victim was incapacitated and unable to give consent
- Mistaken identity: The wrong person is accused of the crime
- False accusations: The accuser is lying and the sexual contact was consensual
- Lack of evidence: There is not enough evidence to prove the charges
What Are Some Common Sexual Assault Cases?
There are various common forms of sexual assault that can take place in different contexts. These cases involve instances where the perpetrator, who can be a family member, friend, romantic partner, or stranger, engages in nonconsensual sexual contact as a means of asserting power and control over the victim.
Defending Sexual Assault Charges in Columbia, MD
In Columbia, MD, when it comes to addressing the devastating impact of sexual assault charges, there's one name you can trust: Albers & Associates. As Maryland's top choice, our award-winning law firm is dedicated to providing tenacious advocacy for those accused of sexual assault.
With just one call, our experienced Columbia sexual assault attorneys are ready to provide representation and advocate for you during this time. Take advantage of our free consultation to discuss your legal defense options.
Call us today at (443) 665-8030!