Upper Marlboro, Maryland Sex Crimes Attorney

Experienced Maryland Lawyers Defending Clients Against Sex Crimes in Upper Marlboro

Allegations of sex crimes can come with strict criminal penalties, not to mention damage to your reputation. A skilled sex crime attorney in Upper Marlboro can defend you against these serious accusations, providing representation and guidance from beginning to end of your case.

At Salvado Law Offices, we understand just how grave these charges can be. We are prepared to put forth a thorough defense on your behalf, looking for any avenues to avoid a conviction or reduce the penalties that may affect you. We have received over 100 5-star reviews from past clients who have praised our excellent legal advocacy. Our sex crime lawyers have an in-depth knowledge of Maryland law, along with years of experience of practicing criminal defense.

Stalking

You could face criminal charges of stalking in Maryland for making repeated unwelcome contact with another person. For this charge to stick, the prosecution must prove that your conduct put the other person in fear of bodily injury, death, false imprisonment, or sexual assault. This charge can also apply to cases where the other person fears that a third party may be put at risk by your conduct.

Stalking does not need to take place in person. You can be penalized for harassing someone online or by using tracking devices to follow that person without their express consent. This crime is a misdemeanor offense, punishable by up to five years in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000 on a conviction.

A sex crimes lawyer can defend you against allegations of stalking. One possible defense is citing lack of intent, since Maryland law specifies stalking as "malicious" conduct. If you can demonstrate that you did not know or reasonably could not have known that you caused the other person to experience fear or distress, the charges could be dropped.

Indecent Exposure

Indecent exposure refers to the act of exposing one's genitals or masturbating in a public place. This crime is a misdemeanor offense, carrying up to three years in prison and/or a $1,000 fine upon conviction. If a minor was present at the scene, you could face aggravated charges, and a conviction could result in five years in prison and a possible $10,000 fine.

While indecent exposure is only a misdemeanor offense, a conviction may result in your placement on the sex offender registry. This is something to be avoided at all costs, as it may affect your housing and employment opportunities.

Rape

Most forms of non-consensual sexual contact are charged as sexual assault. However, when force or the threat of force is involved, the charges may escalate to rape. In Maryland, rape is charged in either the first or second degree, with aggravating factors resulting in first degree charges. Aggravating factors may include serious bodily harm to the alleged victim, death threats, brandishing a dangerous weapon, or committing rape during another offense. A conviction on first degree rape charges can result in a life sentence in prison, possibly without parole if the alleged victim was a minor under age 16.

In the absence of aggravating factors, you may face charges of second degree rape. A sexual assault case may be escalated to second degree rape in a situation involving a serious power imbalance, such as when the alleged victim is physically or mentally helpless. Upon conviction, you could face up to 20 years in prison. Possible defenses for this charge include questioning whether the available evidence is strong enough to secure a conviction or asserting that the allegations are false.

Meet With an Upper Marlboro, MD Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer Today

If you have been accused of a sex crime in Maryland, time is of the essence when it comes to preparing your defense. At Salvado Law Offices, our attorneys can help you develop a sound strategy to help you avoid harsh penalties. To schedule a free consultation, call our offices at 301-933-1814 today or reach out to us online.