Maryland Sex Offense Lawyers

Serving Baltimore and Surrounding Areas

There are a wide number of offenses that can be categorized as sex crimes. Generally speaking, any sex offense involves illegal or otherwise coerced and forceful sexual conduct against an individual or individuals.

Every state in the U.S. has laws in effect that prohibit and penalize different types of sex crimes, including sexual assault and rape. Each state also practices a time limit, otherwise known as the “statute of limitations” during which a victim of sex crimes can file a lawsuit against the offender(s).

Indecent Exposure

In most states across the U.S., exposing the genitals in public is illegal and viewed as a sex offense. Solely exposing genitals for the purpose of gratification, sexual arousal, or to offend someone is deemed a sex offense.

Prostitution

Prostitution is illegal in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, along with almost everywhere else in the United States. Any acts of offering, agreeing to, or engaging in any sexual acts in return for compensation are viewed as a sex crime. Paying for sexual services is seen as prostitution, which is a crime and will be prosecuted. Moreover, Maryland has begun to classify many prostitution-like charges as human trafficking. The significance of this is that the penalties have become more harsh and there are additional charges that can be brought against the accused.

Rape

Rape in every jurisdiction of the United States is a crime because of the non-consensual, and often violent, nature of the sexual act. It may be committed by threat, physical force, or in any circumstance where the victim does not provide consent. Forcible rape is the most common type of rape, while statutory rape is sexual intercourse with a minor or with someone who does not possess the mental or emotional maturity to legally provide consent.

Sexual Assault

Laws relative to sexual assault vary nationwide, but generally speaking, it refers to any crime where the offender has unwanted and offensive sexual contact with a victim; or, where an underage victim may provide consent but does not have the legal ability to do so. Maryland law classifies sexual offenses into four degrees by their level seriousness. The potential penalty upon conviction increases with the degree of the offense charged.

These cases require great care and attention to defend and can often involve family members or young children that may have made a false or coached accusation. At Altmark, Rotter & Trock, LLP, we recognize this and will help you to properly defend and investigate these very serious allegations.

Call us for a free consultation to discuss your case at (410) 783-9230.