Cecil County Sex Crimes Lawyer
Crimes of a sexual nature can sometimes seem horrible because of the intimacy of such an act with an unwilling person. Other times, accusations may come from misunderstandings or even vengeful ex-partners. These types of crimes can range from rape to child pornography. Regardless of why one person accused another of such an act, the person accused may suffer from gross damage to the person’s reputation. They may also find an accusation may affect their rights and freedoms.
If the police suspect you of committing a sex crime, you may wish to take immediate action. Even an accusation can cause harm and you do not want to put yourself at risk for further injury. Contact a Cecil County sex crimes lawyer as soon as possible to start researching potential legal options.
Do not hesitate to call a dedicated criminal defense attorney. A lawyer may be able to explain the laws to you, how the criminal process works and what the possible outcomes are. You may be able to develop a plan of defense to properly protect yourself from the prosecutor.
Common Sex Crimes in Cecil County
There are a variety of acts that constitute crimes of a sexual nature. Some common ones are:
- Rape
- Statutory rape
- Sexual stalking and harassment
- Child pornography
- Indecent exposure
These are all different acts which have different punishments attached to them. A common result from any conviction may be the government placing a person on the sex offender’s registry.
Rape
There are different degrees of rape. First-degree rape, as defined in the Criminal Code of Maryland Section 3-303, is the most severe act. It involves a forceful sexual act and some other crime, such as assault, threat to do physical harm or burglary. The punishment is at least twenty-five years in jail, up to life.
Second-degree rape, as defined in Section 3-304, is forceful rape of another person, or sex with someone under the age of fourteen or someone who has some mental or physical impairment. The court must sentence someone the court convicts to at least fifteen years in jail.
Third-degree rape, as defined in Section 3-307, involves some threat or use of force along with sex with another person without their consent. The maximum punishment is ten years in jail.
Fourth-degree rape, which is defined in Section 3-308, is a misdemeanor and involves someone in authority having sex with a minor or a person having sex with another person without their consent. The punishment is at most three years in prison and a fine of no more than $1,000.
Prostitution
The court can punish an act of prostitution with up to one year in jail and a fine of no more than $500, according to Section 11-306.
Indecent Exposure
If the police catch someone exposing themselves, the government may convict that person and sentence them to up to three years in jail and a fine of up to $1,000, according to Section 11-107.
Child Pornography
A person may not possess, create or receive illegal images. If a person is caught, that is a felony, which the government may punish with up to ten years and a fine of up to $25,000 for a first offense, according to Section 11-207.
Stalking and Harassment
It is stalking if a person places another person in fear of experiencing a sex crime, among other fears. If the court convictions someone, it is a misdemeanor punishable by up to five years in jail and a fine of no more than $5,000, according to Section 3-802.
Enlist the Aid of a Cecil County Sex Crimes Attorney Today
Sex crimes typically have ugly images connected to them. If the police have accused you of such an act, you may be worried about your reputation and how such a charge may affect other areas of your life. Even though there could be dire consequences, it is important to stay calm and take a breath.
Reach out to a Cecil County sex crimes lawyer to find out how they may be able to help. You have rights and there are defenses available to you. Contact an attorney today.