Rockville Sex Crimes Lawyer
Sex crimes are vigorously prosecuted in Rockville. While the efforts to protect alleged victims are taken very seriously, sometimes the rights of the accused get trampled in the process.
If you are facing accusations of a sex crime, it is important to give serious consideration to your defensive strategy from day one. A Rockville sex crimes lawyer could analyze your case and help develop a defense plan to exploit every weakness in the prosecution’s case. A criminal defense lawyer could also work to protect your rights throughout all phases of the process.
Sex Offender Registration
The consequences of a sex crime extend far beyond the standard criminal penalties of incarceration and fines. Even an unfounded accusation of a sex crime has the ability to destroy an individual’s reputation.
Those convicted of certain sex offenses will be required to register as sex offenders in the state. The length of time an individual must continue to comply with registration requirements varies greatly depending on the severity of the offense. Once the time is over, the accused should be removed from the registry.
Different Sex Crimes Charged in Rockville
State statutes describe many different sex crimes, most of which are treated as felonies. When an act involves a minor, the penalties may be even more severe.
An attorney could help fight accusations of offenses such as:
- Rape
- Felony or misdemeanor sexual offense
- Attempted rape
- Solicitation
- Sexual harassment
- Possession of child pornography
- Solicitation of a minor
It is wise to begin collecting evidence as soon as possible to fight the charges. Evidence can become more difficult to locate as time passes.
Penalties for Sex Crimes
The statutes describing various sex crimes also usually enumerate the penalties for these offenses. Md. Code, Crim. Law §3-303 describes circumstances that will be treated as rape in the first degree. In all cases, those convicted may be sentenced to life in prison.
If aggravating factors are present, the severity of the sentence increases. When the act includes a kidnapping by an adult of a child under the age of 16, the person convicted loses the possibility of parole. In situations where an adult violates the statute against a child under the age of 13, the statute imposes a minimum sentence of 25 years with no possibility of suspension or parole.
Crimes with less severe penalties include indecent exposure, carrying a maximum sentence of three years and a $1,000 fine. A local sex crimes attorney could seek alternative sentencing as well. Solicitation and prostitution are treated even more leniently as these misdemeanors may be penalized by no more than one year of imprisonment and a $500 fine. However, if someone solicits a minor for prostitution, the crime is then treated as a felony punishable by up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Contact a Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Today
A conviction or even an accusation of a sex crime could jeopardize your future options for years to come. It is wise to take proactive measures to fight allegations, even if criminal charges have not yet been filed.
An experienced Rockville sex crimes lawyer could be your ally in the legal process, fighting to protect your rights and reputation. If your case results in a dismissal or other disposition without a conviction, an attorney could assist in having the charges expunged from your record. To learn more about the benefits a legal advocate could provide in your case, consult a sex crimes lawyer by calling today.