Millersville Sex Crimes Lawyer
Devoted Lawyers Defending Clients Against Sex Crime Accusations in Millersville
If you have been accused of a sex crime in Maryland, you can expect that the prosecution will quickly start building a case against you. A sex crime conviction can come with high fines, years of incarceration, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. With legal representation from a Millersville sex crimes lawyer, you can fight these damaging allegations in court.
When your personal liberties and reputation are at stake, the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP can defend you to the fullest extent of the law. Our attorneys are here to provide you with unwavering advocacy for charges of sex crimes, and we will work towards a favorable outcome to your case.
Sexual Assault/Rape
Sexual assault and rape can come with life-ruining punishments in a court of law, and a conviction should be avoided at all costs. At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we can defend people accused of:
- Fourth-Degree Sexual Offenses: These cases often involve adults engaging in sexual contact with a minor, such as a coach and a student. This is a misdemeanor offense punishable by a year in prison and a possible $1,000 fine.
- Third-Degree Sexual Offenses: This is an escalated charge that may involve the use of force or a dangerous weapon against a non-consenting victim. A third-degree sexual offense is a felony punishable by a prison sentence of up to 10 years.
- Second-Degree Rape: A sexual offense becomes rape when it involves sexual intercourse or penetration. For offenders 18 years or older, this is a felony punishable by no less than 15 years in prison if the victim was a minor under 13, with the possibility of a life sentence. Otherwise, this offense is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
- First-Degree Rape: This is the most severe sexual offense, characterized by the use of force, threatening a victim with injury or death, or multiple assailants. A conviction can be punished by a maximum of life in prison, with a 25-year minimum sentence if the victim was under 13.
Possession of Child Pornography
In Maryland, it is illegal to knowingly possess a visual representation of a child under 16 engaged in a sexual act or depicted in a state of sexual excitement. Although this crime is only a misdemeanor offense, it can carry up to five years in prison on a conviction. Additionally, anyone convicted of this offense will have to register as a sex offender for 15 years, which can severely restrict employment opportunities.
There are some good-faith exceptions to this law. You could be protected from prosecution if you can show that you reported the material to law enforcement immediately and/or took reasonable measures to destroy the material. The law does not prohibit parents from possessing photos of their child in the nude unless the visual representation shows the child engaged in a sex act or in a state of sexual excitement.
Internet Sex Crimes
A sex crime on the internet can carry serious penalties. Soliciting a minor for sex online is a felony charge, with a sentence that may include a $25,000 fine and up to 10 years in prison. Possessing child pornography is a misdemeanor offense with a possible five-year prison sentence.
These crimes require a heavy burden of proof for a conviction, especially when it comes to intent. At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our attorneys will look at all of the available evidence and call out any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Speak With a Millersville, Maryland Sexual Offenses Lawyer Today
At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our Millersville sex crime lawyers are here to defend you against allegations of misconduct. When you work with our firm, you will receive one-on-one counsel to help fight your charge. To schedule a free initial consultation, call our offices at 410-280-2500 today or contact us online.
Available 24/7
Skilled Criminal Defense Attorneys Ready When You Need It Most
In court, there is no substitute for a devoted, knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer. The Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP provides comprehensive legal services for Maryland residents who have been charged with criminal offenses.
Proudly Serving
1125 West Street suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA
5700 Coastal Hwy suite 305, Ocean City, MD 21842, USA
8120 Veterans Highway suite 200, Millersville, MD 21108, USA