Fulton, Maryland Sex Crimes Attorneys

Supportive Lawyers Defending Clients Against Sex Crime Charges in Fulton

A conviction for a sex crime has the potential to ruin your future, destroying your reputation in the eyes of your community and sinking your career opportunities. Certain offenses are also punishable by mandatory registration on the sex offender registry, which will follow you wherever you go. A skilled sex crimes attorney in Fulton can help protect you against the damaging effects of a conviction.

At Salvado Law Offices, our lawyers have the legal knowledge and the experience to effectively defend you against allegations of sex crimes. When you work with our firm, you will receive personalized advocacy and guidance to help you resolve your case successfully and minimize the potential penalties that may affect you.

Internet Sex Crimes

As technology evolves over time, Maryland law continues to account for internet sex crimes. Depending on the nature of the offense, you could face felony charges even if there was no actual physical contact.

Revenge porn is an example of an internet sex crime that has become more prevalent over the years. Under Maryland law, revenge porn is defined as "knowingly distributing a visual representation" of a clearly identifiable person engaging in an explicit sex act when these images or videos are shared without their consent. This is charged as a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to two years in prison, a fine of no more than $5,000, or both.

Solicitation of a minor for a sexual act over the internet comes with serious punishments for those who are convicted of this offense. This crime is punished as a felony, carrying up to 10 years in prison and/or a $25,000 fine.

Sexual Assault

In Maryland, the act of sexual assault broadly covers any unwanted sexual contact, coercion, or indecent conduct with a minor. This crime is charged in the third or fourth degree, carrying either misdemeanor or felony charges.

Fourth degree sexual offenses typically involve abuses of authority over an alleged victim, such as misconduct between a teacher and a student. The law for fourth degree sexual offenses makes specific mention of age gaps wherein, and the alleged perpetrator may face charges if they are more than four years older than a victim who is 14 or 15 years of age. Fourth degree sexual assault is a misdemeanor punishable by no more than a year in prison, or three years on a subsequent conviction.

Third degree charges are usually reserved for unwanted sex acts carried out by force or the threat of violence. This crime is also charged when the victim is physically or mentally incapable of fighting back. A third degree sexual offense is a felony punishable by no more than 10 years in prison.

In cases involving allegations of sexual intercourse that occurred without a person's consent, including through the use of force or the threat of injury, charges of rape may apply. This crime may be charged in the first or second degree depending on whether there were aggravating factors such as serious injuries or the use of a weapon. Rape is a felony offense, and a conviction can lead to a lengthy prison sentence, up to life in prison in some cases.

Prostitution

Soliciting or offering sexual favors for money is a misdemeanor offense in Maryland, with the possibility of substantial jail time and fines on a conviction. Notably, no transaction needs to have occurred for prostitution charges to apply. If the prosecution can prove that an offer for sexual services was made, you could still be found guilty.

A credible defense against prostitution charges may involve demonstrating a lack of intent. If your conduct was mistaken as an offer to pay for sex, our lawyers can argue to have the charges dropped.

Meet With a Fulton, MD Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer Today

If you face sex crime charges in Maryland, your freedom and public reputation may be at risk. At Salvado Law Offices, our attorneys can provide you with skilled representation against a variety of sexual offenses, including rape and child pornography. We will protect your best interests, taking swift action to minimize the allegations against you.

Our attorneys have been recognized as being among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers. To schedule a free consultation with our firm, call us at 301-933-1814 today or reach out to us online.