Maryland Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Any type of sexual activity to which a person does not agree falls under the spectrum of sexual abuse or sexual assault.  For those victimized by such a crime, especially children, the emotional and psychological consequences can be a source of pain and anguish for years and years, perhaps the rest of their lives.  Because of this, the state of Maryland can be counted on to rigorously investigate and prosecute all claims of sexual abuse or sexual assault.  If you are accused of one of these crimes, you need the services of a trusted sexual crimes attorney to protect your rights throughout the legal process and provide you with a strong defense against the charges you are up against. Call today to begin working with a Maryland sexual abuse lawyer.

Sexual Abuse Laws in the State of Maryland

Maryland Section 3–602 governs sexual abuse of a minor by a family member or household member.  This statute defines sexual abuse as any act that involves the molestation or sexual exploitation of a minor, regardless of whether or not physical injury is sustained.  It includes (but is not limited to) incest, rape, sexual offense in any degree, sodomy, and unnatural or perverted sexual practices.

For the purposes of Section 3–602, a family member may be a parent or other person who is entrusted with the guardianship, temporary or permanent, of the minor child. Any other adult member of the household may also qualify if he or she commits the offenses described above.  Sexual abuse of a minor is a felony, and carries a punishment on conviction of a prison sentence up to 25 years. These long prison sentences are another important reason why you should consult a Maryland sexual abuse attorney if you are facing such charges.

While all sex crimes against children are seriously prosecuted in the state of Maryland, those committed by a parent, guardian or other adult the child trusts carry an extra level of culpability.  This is reflected in the provision that allows for consecutive sentencing.

Any family member or household member who sexually abuses a minor is subject to a sentence for that crime in addition to any other sentence he or she may incur as a result of performing the original act that caused the abuse.  For example, perpetrators who commit a sexual offense against a minor child in their custody can be punished both for the sexual offense, and for the sexual abuse of a minor.  Any prison sentences the person receives as a result can run concurrently, or back-to-back.

Contact a Maryland Sexual Abuse Attorney

Because of the severity of the crime, it is normal for a person charged with sexual abuse to feel trapped and alone.  False accusations of child sexual abuse, for instance from an embittered ex-spouse, are sadly not unheard of, and they can be very difficult to disprove.

The nature and complexity of the charges you face should be enough reason for you to speak to a lawyer who can go over all the details of your case and give you the best possible representation. You want to retain a Maryland sexual abuse lawyer well-versed in the field of criminal law, one who understands that not just your freedom, but your name is at stake.

Call our offices today for a free consultation on what we can do to help build your defense. To learn about sexual assault charges in Virginia, follow this link to Karin Riley Porter Attorney at Law’s website.