Annapolis, Maryland Military Sexual Assault Lawyers

Attorneys Helping Servicemembers Defend Against Sexual Assault Charges in Annapolis

In recent years, the U.S. military has placed increased focus on investigating and prosecuting allegations of sexual misconduct. People who are accused of sexual assault or related offenses may face intrusive investigations. Prosecutions may lead to multiple types of penalties that could affect a person's career in the military, damage their reputation, and lead to difficulties in the future.

A sexual assault accusation can be devastating, and servicemembers who are investigated for these offenses or charged with crimes will need to be sure to have representation from an experienced attorney. The military criminal defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP have the knowledge and skills needed to address accusations of sexual misconduct. We work to protect the rights of servicemembers and make sure they can minimize the ways their lives and careers will be affected.

Situations Leading to Sexual Assault or Harassment Charges

Sexual misconduct charges in the military can arise under a variety of circumstances. Common scenarios that may lead to accusations include:

• Inappropriate Workplace Conduct: Comments, touching, or other behavior perceived as unwelcome or suggestive in a professional environment may result in sexual harassment allegations.
• Power Imbalances: Relationships involving differing ranks, such as between a superior and subordinate, may be considered to be inappropriate under military rules.
• Reprisal or Retaliation Claims: Disciplinary actions or personal disputes may lead to retaliatory allegations of sexual misconduct.
• Consensual Relationships: A romantic or sexual relationship may involve interpersonal conflicts, external pressure, or misunderstandings, leading to claims of sexual assault or abuse.
• Use of Alcohol or Drugs: In situations where one or both parties were intoxicated, disagreements may arise about whether consent was given.

Even when claims of sexual assault or other forms of misconduct are unsubstantiated, they may still cause significant damage to a service member's reputation and career advancement. Because of the potential consequences, it is crucial to address these accusations with the help of an experienced attorney.

Penalties for Sexual Assault Convictions in the Military

A conviction for sexual misconduct is likely to lead to severe consequences. Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, penalties may include:

• Confinement: Servicemembers convicted of rape or aggravated sexual assault may face lengthy prison sentences, potentially up to life imprisonment.
• Dishonorable or Bad Conduct Discharge: A conviction resulting in jail time will typically lead to a punitive discharge, which will prevent a servicemember from receiving military benefits and harm their future employment prospects.
• Sex Offender Registration: Sexual assault convictions will require registration under federal sex offender laws, which will affect a person's ability to find housing and employment while also damaging their public reputation.
• Permanent Criminal Record: In addition to military penalties, a service member will face civilian repercussions due to having a sex crime on their criminal record.

Defense Strategies for Military Sexual Assault Cases

Every sexual assault case involves unique facts and legal challenges, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to defense. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP understand how to evaluate the details of each case and construct a strategic response. Potential defense strategies may include:

Challenging Consent Issues

Many sexual assault cases are based on a lack of consent from the alleged victim. Our attorneys may be able to demonstrate that consent was given through evidence like text messages, witness testimony, or details about prior interactions.

Exposing Inconsistencies or False Allegations

If an accuser's story changes over time or conflicts with physical evidence or accounts from other witnesses, these inconsistencies can be used to question their credibility. In some cases, accusations may be based on motives unrelated to the alleged assault, such as jealousy, revenge, or attempts to avoid disciplinary consequences.

Mistaken Identity or Misidentification

If the incident occurred in a group setting, or if the identification of the accused relies on limited evidence, our lawyers may raise questions about whether the accused was accurately identified as the perpetrator.

Lack of Corroborating Evidence

A person may be accused of sexual assault even if there is little or no physical evidence. Our attorneys may be able to show that there is a lack of forensic evidence that supports the accuser's claims.

Contact Our Annapolis, MD Military Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys

Being accused of sexual misconduct while serving in the military can lead to serious consequences, which makes legal representation crucial in these situations. At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we help servicemembers challenge these allegations and fight for justice. By thoroughly reviewing these cases, conducting independent investigations, and consulting with forensic or psychological experts, we can build comprehensive defenses to help avoid a conviction and other penalties. Contact our lawyers at 410-280-2500 to schedule a free consultation.