Worcester County Criminal Lawyer

Criminal offenses in Worcester County, Maryland, carry heavy penalties, both for simple misdemeanor offenses and violent felony offenses. Those charged with a crime can often avoid conviction or minimize the penalties incurred by securing skillful legal representation. Because prosecutors have a wealth of resources available for the collection of incriminating evidence, an alleged offender is wise to find a Worcester County criminal lawyer with a successful history in criminal defense.

From the moment an interrogation begins, a criminal investigation gets underway, or criminal charges are filed, it is in the suspect’s best interest to secure legal counsel as soon as possible. Having skilled counsel by your side every step of the way can make a big difference throughout the legal process. Understanding the full scope of one’s rights, the criminal statutes of limitations, effective methods of defense, and the penalties associated with a particular charge is best handled and explained by an experienced Worcester County, Maryland criminal defense attorney.

Worcester County Criminal Defense

Experienced criminal lawyers represent clients from all backgrounds and all walks of life. Each case, just like each client, has its own unique qualities, and a successful attorney is able to tailor each defense strategy to the specific details of each individual case.

Whether a simple misdemeanor punishable by mere fines or a violent felony punishable by life in prison, you may be able to limit the penalties you incur by hiring an attorney with a history of successful criminal defense.

Worcester County Sex Offenses

Conducting a search for registered sex offenders in Worcester County is free and easy for the public through the Maryland Sex Offender Registry. Upon conviction of certain sex crimes, the state of Maryland requires mandatory sex offender registration.

Rape is the most aggravated sex crime, and it is categorized as either first degree rape or second degree rape. A second degree rape brings forth lesser felony charges, resulting in a maximum term of incarceration of 20 years. In cases in which the accused is 18 or older and the alleged victim is under 13 years of age, however, the minimum term of incarceration will be no less than 15 years. For a rape to be considered in the first degree, a number of factors must be present in the commission of the crime: there must be intercourse, it must occur through the threat or implementation of violence, it must be without the victim’s consent, and there must be the presence of at least one other aggravating factor as designated in the Maryland Criminal Code. If convicted of first degree rape, the offender will face life in prison. In certain cases, the possibility of parole may be denied as well.

Sex offenses, in general, are classified in four degrees and are punished based on the nature of the specific crime. A fourth degree sexual offense, which includes nonconsensual fondling, is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. A third degree sexual offense is considered more grievous than a fourth degree offense, and is therefore a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. A second degree sexual offense incurs a maximum of 20 years in prison, and a first degree sexual offense may result in a term of life behind bars. Repeat offenses and the involvement of minors under the age of 16 can result in harsher penalization of sex crimes.

Prostitution and Solicitation in Worcester County

While the offenses of prostitution and solicitation of a prostitute involve sexual misconduct, these crimes actually fall under the classification of “indecency and obscenity,” rather than under the umbrella of “sex crimes.” Participation in a sexual act with a prostitute, attempting to solicit the sexual services of a prostitute, engaging in prostitution, or other related offenses are viewed as misdemeanors in Maryland and are punishable by a maximum fine of $500 and up to one year in jail. In addition to the penalties by law, however, a conviction and public knowledge of such charges can be greatly damaging to one’s personal reputation.

Certain aggravating factors may result in the charges of a second degree assault escalating to that of a felony.

Criminal Defense in Worcester County, Maryland

Jail or prison time and costly fines are just a portion of the consequences that follow a criminal conviction in Worcester County, Maryland. In addition to these penalties, a conviction may result in a loss of voting rights, a loss of the right to carry firearms, the loss of security clearances, the loss of professional licensure, and more. To avoid the maximum penalties and achieve the best possible outcome in your legal battle, contact Worcester County criminal attorney Seth Okin, who has the skills and experience to build a solid defense for your case. Call his law office today to schedule a free consultation.