Harford County Sex Crimes Lawyer
Few other types of criminal offenses are viewed more unfavorably by both law enforcement authorities and the general public than those involving unlawful sexual behavior. If you are facing an allegation of this nature, however, it is important for you to know that you have the same right as any other criminal defendant to proactively enforce your rights under state law and contest that allegation in court.
Additionally, you have help available from experienced defense attorneys with constructing the strongest possible defense tailored to your unique circumstances. Whether you have a history of similar convictions or this is your first time facing criminal charges of any kind, a Harford County sex crimes lawyer from Price Benowitz is prepared to fight tenaciously to protect your best interests throughout your legal proceedings.
Rape Versus Sexual Offense as Defined by State Law
Many sex crimes addressed in the Criminal Law article of the Maryland Code entail someone engaging in non-consensual sexual behavior with another person. Depending on factors such as the specific type of behavior that allegedly occurred, the age or mental status of the person allegedly targeted, and the presence or absence of actual or threatened physical force, this type of offense may be prosecuted as rape in more serious circumstances or as a sexual offense under comparatively less serious circumstances.
State law also categorizes both rape offenses and sexual offenses into different degrees based on the defendant’s alleged conduct. For example, rape in the first degree generally entails someone compelling non-consensual vaginal intercourse through the use of a weapon or through a threat of lethal force, whereas someone compelling the same type of interaction through actual or threatened force without a weapon being involved would likely be considered rape in the second degree. A Harford County sex crimes attorney could further explain the distinctions between offenses of this nature during a confidential initial meeting.
What Convictions Require Sex Offender Registration?
In addition to rape and sexual offenses, charges generally considered to be sex crimes in Maryland include possession, distribution, and production of child pornography, as well as abduction and sale of a minor for the purposes of prostitution and sexual solicitation of a minor. All these offenses are punishable by mandatory registration as a sex offender with the state of Maryland for 15 years, 25 years, or life, depending on the tier assigned to the offense in question.
As a skilled lawyer could explain, repeat sex crime offenders in Harford County may have the tier of subsequent charges upgraded. For instance, a second-time offender convicted of a fourth-degree sexual offense might be required to register for 25 years instead of the standard 15 years for that charge.
Work With a Harford County Sex Crimes Attorney
Being accused of a sex crime can alter the course of your life in a matter of moments, even if you have no criminal history before that point. However, by acting proactively and working closely with capable legal counsel, you may be able to resolve your charges favorably and minimize long-term repercussions.
Representation from a Harford County sex crimes lawyer could help you effectively enforce your rights and protect your best interests. Call Price Benowitz today for a free case evaluation.