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Somerset Sex Crimes Lawyer

Reaching out to a Somerset sex crimes lawyer is the first step in protecting yourself, your record, and your reputation if you’ve been accused of committing a sex crime in Somerset County, Maryland. A Somerset sex crimes lawyer will sit down with you, listen to you, and hear your side of the story.

A criminal conviction, no matter how minor as with a misdemeanor or major as with a felony, will follow you everywhere you go. Schools, future employers and even apartment complexes will take your criminal record into account, possibly denying you access to higher education, an important job or housing. Contact a criminal defense lawyer in Somerset today.

Benefits of an Experienced Somerset Sex Crimes Attorney

The criminal defense attorneys at our firm understand the legal system and can work hard to develop a strategy tailored to the specific needs of their clients. They also understand the stressful situation many of their clients are in and can be both an advisor and an advocate. As an advisor, he or she can explain complex aspects of the law simply so you know what to expect before you’re standing in front of a judge. As an advocate, he or she can speak on your behalf to the judge, striving to reduce or drop any charges you face. Information and discussions with a lawyer are subject to attorney-client privilege and are confidential.

A Brief Summary of Sex Crimes in Maryland

Maryland Code Section 3-301 defines sexual acts and sexual contacts while highlighting and explaining the differences between the two. The code also covers rape, sexual offenses and other types of sex-related offenses that may warrant contact with a sex crimes lawyer in Somerset.

Rape

Section 3-303 and Section 3-304 separate rape into two different degrees: rape in the first degree and rape in the second degree respectively.

First degree rape is a felony punishable by as much as life in prison. However, a prior conviction of either first degree rape or first degree sexual offense is punishable by as much as life in prison without parole.

Second degree rape is a felony punishable by a maximum of 20 years in prison. However, the penalties for both first degree rape and second degree rape are enhanced when minors under the age of 13 are involved making it even more imperative that a Somerset sex crimes lawyer is contacted. If a defendant is convicted, then a mandatory prison sentence is handed down by the judge:

  • First degree rape — A defendant must serve at least 25 years in prison
  • Second degree rape — A defendant must serve at least 15 years in prison

Sexual Offenses

Sexual offenses are separated into four different degrees found in Section 3-305 (first degree), Section 3-306 (second degree), Section 3-307 (third degree) and Section 3-308 (fourth degree). Each degree is distinguished based on the following:

  • Was a sexual act committed?
  • Was sexual contact committed?
  • Was the sex crime violent?

All sexual offenses are felonies punishable by time in prison and/or a fine. The most severe punishment is for first degree sexual offenses; the least severe, fourth degree sexual offenses.

Under Section 3-313, prior convictions will exacerbate any punishment.

Other Sex-related Offenses

The Maryland Code also covers other sex-related offenses including but certainly not limited to the following:

  • Incest
  • Attempting a sex crime
  • Soliciting a minor

Contact a Somerset Sex Crimes Attorney Today

Facing serious charges in a court of law can be intimidating, but working with a seasoned Somerset sex crimes lawyer can give you peace of mind and a sense of grounding throughout the process.  At a time when it may seem like so many people are against you, it’s important to have legal counsel you can rely on. Contact us as soon as possible to learn more about what an experienced defense attorney’s role in these cases and to set up your free consultation.

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