Severna Park Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Skilled Attorneys for Clients Accused of Sexual Offenses in Severna Park, Maryland

Allegations of sexual assault, molestation, or possession of child pornography can destroy your reputation in your local community, to say nothing of the criminal penalties you may face if you are convicted. If you stand accused of a sex crime, it is in your best interests to contact an attorney as soon as possible. A Severna Park sex crimes lawyer can inform you of your rights and advise you on how to respond to the accusations against you.

At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we know just how serious these allegations can be. We believe in the principle of innocent until proven guilty, and when you work with our firm, we will stand up for you in court against punitive prosecution.

Rape and Sexual Offenses

In Maryland, non-consensual sex acts are sorted into degrees of severity, with escalating penalties. Rape and sexual offenses both involve sex acts, but sexual intercourse is a prerequisite for rape.

The use of force in a non-consensual sex act can result in aggravated charges. Rape in the first degree can be charged if a perpetrator displays a dangerous weapon or threatens the victim with serious bodily harm. Strict minimum sentences may apply if the victim was a minor.

Defending against a rape charge requires a thorough examination of the facts. At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we will look for discrepancies in the allegations against you and stand up for you in the courtroom. If the prosecution cannot prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, we will fight to have the charges reduced, if not dismissed outright.

Internet Sex Crimes

Not all sex crimes involve physical contact with a victim. Many of these offenses take place over the internet, whether through illicit conversations or the distribution of illegal material. For instance, the distribution of revenge porn is criminalized under Maryland law. This offense refers to the practice of circulating photos of someone in a compromising position without that person's consent. This crime is a misdemeanor punishable by a two-year prison sentence and a possible $5,000 fine.

The production, distribution, and possession of child pornography is a serious crime under Maryland law. A first count of possession of child pornography is a misdemeanor violation, but possession with intent to distribute is a felony offense punishable by a 10-year prison sentence and a possible fine of up to $25,000. A possible defense to a possession charge may be to report the material to the police and take reasonable steps to destroy the material in question.

Sex Offender Registry

Many sex crimes, including rape, child porn offenses, kidnapping, and visual surveillance with prurient intent will require registration on the sex offender list after a conviction. This comes with numerous restrictions that can make it incredibly difficult to find housing or employment. Depending on the nature of the offense, you could remain on the registry indefinitely.

At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our attorneys will do everything in our power to prevent you from being required to register as a sex offender. If necessary, we can help you appeal a conviction and lift a sex offender registry requirement.

Meet With a Severna Park, Maryland Sex Crimes Attorney Today

If you have been accused of a sex crime, you should get in contact with an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options. At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we represent Maryland residents who have been accused of sexual misconduct and other criminal offenses. Our Severna Park sex crimes lawyers will handle your case without judgment, exploring all possible avenues of defense to minimize the charges against you.

When your personal liberties are on the line, do not hesitate to seek legal representation. Call our offices at 410-280-2500 or reach out to us online for a free initial consultation.