Gaithersburg Sex Crimes Lawyer

Accusations of a sex crime could have life-altering consequences for you, your family, and your future. As a result, you should not hesitate to seek legal advice from a criminal defense attorney to ensure your rights are protected. A Gaithersburg sex crimes lawyer may be able to assess your situation and help you make the best decision for your case.

Sexual Assault and Battery in Gaithersburg

Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-307 defines sexual offenses as sexual contacts, acts, or intercourse without the consent of other parties or in cases in which the parties legally cannot give consent. For instance, sexual offenses occur when individuals engage in non-consensual sexual contact and:

• Use or exhibit a dangerous weapon or what appears to be a dangerous weapon
• Cause serious physical injuries to others
• Threaten others or place them in fear of immediate death, injury, or kidnapping
• Commit the offense with others aiding and abetting them

A sexual offense also occurs when individuals have sexual contact with cognitively impaired or physically or mentally disabled persons. The respective ages of the parties to the sex acts could also lead to criminal charges. For example, charges may occur when individuals engage in sexual contact with minors.

Sex offense charges are usually third-degree felonies that could result in a maximum prison sentence of ten years. However, under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-308, a fourth-degree sexual offense, which occurs between individuals and people in positions of authority over them, could result in up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. A sex crimes attorney in Gaithersburg may be able to help decrease the potential penalties a defendant may be facing.

Gaithersburg Rape Offenses

Rape in the first degree under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-303 involves individuals who perform non-consensual sexual acts with others using force or the threat of force in specific situations. If an individual uses or displays a dangerous weapon, seriously injures others, or threatens death, serious injury, or kidnapping to the alleged victims or others, they commit first-degree rape. This offense also occurs when others aid and abet individuals in carrying out the crime or commit it in conjunction with committing a burglary.

First-degree rape could cause a life sentence of incarceration without parole, and even attempted first-degree rape could result in a life sentence. Second-degree rape, which involves sexual acts committed by force or threats of force in selected instances, could potentially result in a life sentence. However, attempted second-degree rape has a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. A Gaithersburg lawyer experienced with sex crimes could help build a strong case to avoid these life-long consequences.

Consult a Gaithersburg Sex Crimes Attorney for Advice

Sexual offense and rape are only two of many sex-related criminal offenses that exist under Maryland law. Convictions for these offenses could have a devastating effect on your career, your family, and your freedom. When you are facing such severe and damaging charges, you must take immediate steps to protect your rights. Call a Gaithersburg sex crimes lawyer today and schedule your first consultation.