Being charged with rape is one of the most serious charges a person can face. Even a charge to an innocent person can have a lifetime of consequences. Those who are guilty will face the worst possible consequences, including life in prison. If you are facing rape charges, it is critical that you retain the services of an attorney who can effectively represent your interests. The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz has decades of experience representing individuals who have been charged with sex crimes, including rape. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your situation.
The Consequences of a Rape Conviction
If you are charged with rape in Maryland, it is important for you to understand the extreme consequences you are facing. The court will take into consideration the details of the incident along with your criminal history. There are three felony categories that rape can fall into, depending on the circumstances. The breakdown is as follows:
Felony I Rape Charges
- Rape in the first degree will result in life in prison
- Subsequent rape in the first degree will result in life in prison without parole
- Rape in the first degree in combination with kidnapping a child younger than 16 will result in life in prison without parole
- Rape in the first degree as an adult with a victim under 13 results in life without parole, with a minimum of 25 years in jail
Felony II Rape Charges
- Attempted rape in the first degree results in life in prison
- Rape in the second degree results in 20 years in prison
- Rape in the second degree of a victim of who is under 13 results in a minimum of 15 years but possible life imprisonment
Felony III Rape Charges
- Attempted rape in the second degree results in 20 years in prison
What is the Sex Offender Registry
If you are convicted of a sexual offense in Maryland, you are required to register with the state’s Sex Offender Registry. The court will consider the crime, the victim’s age, and the date of the offense. There are three tiers of sex offender that you may fall into depending on these factors. Rape falls into a Tier III crime and will result in a lifetime registration.
Contact an Annapolis Rape Defense Attorney
If you have been charged with rape, it is critical that you retain quality legal representation. Our firm is committed to representing your interests and helping you clear your name. We are ready to conduct a thorough investigation and develop a criminal defense strategy that gives you the opportunity to get these charges dismissed. You need a law firm that is aggressive in your defense. We are that firm. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today.
