When an individual is charged with a sexual crime in the state of Maryland, it is a very serious offense. When a sexual act occurs without the consent of both parties, it is known as a sexual crime. These actions come with severe consequences. If you are charged with committing a sex crime in the state of Maryland, it is crucial to retain the services of an experienced attorney to help clear your name.
Consequences of a Sex Crime
In the state of Maryland, the consequences a person may face can depend on the category of the crime. The category can be determined by the person’s criminal history in conjunction with the circumstances surrounding the crime, as well as the age of the perpetrator and victim.
The consequences for some Felony sexual crimes include:
- A life sentence for rape in the first degree
- A life sentence without parole for subsequent rape in the first degree
- Life without parole for rape in the first degree combined with kidnapping a child under 16-years-old
- Life without parole or a minimum of 25 years for rape in the first degree as an adult with a victim under 13 years old
- Life sentence for attempted rape in the first degree
- 20 years imprisonment for rape in the second degree
- Life or 15 years imprisonment for rape in the second degree of a victim under 13 years old
- 25 years imprisonment for child abuse of a sexual nature under certain conditions
- 20 years imprisonment for attempted rape in the second degree
Maryland Sex Offender Registry
When a person is convicted of a sex crime in Maryland, certain consequences can follow them for the rest of their life. This is because they are required to have their names placed on the Maryland Sex Offender Registry for a predetermined number of years from 15 years to life. The requirements for the registry are broken down into three tiers.
Tier I crimes require a person to be on the registry for 15 years. This can include sex offenses in the fourth degree, the possession of child pornography, sex trafficking by force, fraud, coercion, sexual internet crimes, and more.
Tier II crimes require a person to be on the registry for 25 years. These offenses may be distributing child pornography, hiring a minor for prostitution, abduction of a minor for prostitution, human trafficking, and more.
Tier III crimes require a person to be on the registry for life. These crimes can include felonies such as rape, kidnapping, attempted rape, sexual assault, the sale of a minor, and more.
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz has decades of experience representing clients in Howard County, Maryland who have been charged with a crime. If you are facing criminal charges, let our firm explore all possible defenses and fight to protect your future. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your case.
