Maryland Sexual Assault Attorneys
Providing Aggressive Defense for Sexual Assault Charges in Maryland
If you have been accused of sexual assault, you need a strong and experienced criminal defense attorney. A conviction for sexual assault can result in serious consequences, including jail or prison time, probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
At Albers & Associates, our Maryland sexual assault attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients and helping them fight the charges against them. We know that in sexual assault cases, the accuser's version of events is often taken as the truth, but we will work hard to uncover the facts and provide a strong defense.
Schedule a confidential consultation with our Maryland sexual assault attorneys if you are facing charges. Call (443) 665-8030 today!
Sexual Assault in Maryland
Sexual assault is a serious criminal charge in Maryland. It is defined as the nonconsensual touching of another person's sexual organs or the nonconsensual touching of another with one's own sexual organs.
Here are some common sexual offense charges and their potential penalties in Maryland:
- Rape in the First Degree (Section 3-303): Rape in the first degree generally refers to a severe form of sexual assault where there are aggravating factors that increase the seriousness of the offense. These aggravating factors might include the use of violence, weapons, causing serious bodily harm, or targeting particularly vulnerable individuals. The exact criteria for what constitutes first-degree rape can vary, but it usually involves circumstances that make the assault especially heinous. A conviction can result in life imprisonment with or without the possibility of parole.
- Rape in the Second Degree (Section 3-304): Rape in the second degree typically refers to a less severe form of sexual assault compared to first-degree rape. The specific criteria can again vary depending on the jurisdiction, but it often involves situations where there may be force or coercion involved, but the aggravating factors present in first-degree rape are absent or less pronounced. A conviction carries a prison sentence between 15 years and life imprisonment.
- Sexual Offense in the Third Degree (Section 3-307): A sexual offense in the third degree generally refers to a range of non-consensual sexual acts that are considered less severe than rape. This could include offenses such as non-consensual sexual contact or penetration without the elements that would qualify it as first or second-degree rape. The specific acts covered by this offense can vary, but it often involves unwanted sexual contact that falls short of more serious charges. A conviction is punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years.
- Sexual Offense in the Fourth Degree (Section 3-308): A sexual offense in the fourth degree typically encompasses a broader range of sexual misconduct, often of a less severe nature than the offenses in the previous sections. This might include acts like sexual harassment, indecent exposure, or engaging in sexual activity with a minor who is above the age of consent but below a certain age of majority. This section is usually meant to cover a range of lesser sexual offenses. A conviction can lead to a prison term between 1 and 3 years and a fine of up to $1,000.
- Statutory Rape: This refers to sexual activity with a minor who is under the age of consent. Maryland's age of consent is 16, meaning that individuals below this age generally cannot legally give consent to sexual activity. Statutory rape charges and penalties can vary based on the age difference between the individuals.
In Maryland, like in many other states in the United States, sex offender registration is governed by specific laws that require individuals convicted of certain sex-related offenses to register their information with the state's law enforcement agencies. Being a registered sex offender can make it extremely difficult to seek employment, find housing, and live a normal life.
Maryland's laws on sexual assault are complex and the penalties are severe. If you have been charged with sexual assault, it is imperative that you speak with a qualified sexual assault attorney who has experience with these types of cases. Your freedom, reputation, and future could depend on it.
How Our Firm Can Help
Our firm is made up of former prosecutors who have extensive experience in defending clients against sexual assault charges. We know how the prosecution will approach these cases and will use our knowledge to build a strong defense for you. Albers & Associates will fight to protect your rights and ensure that you get the best possible outcome in your case.
If you are facing serious sex charges, our Maryland sexual assault attorneys can help. Call (443) 665-8030 today for a free consultation!