Timonium Child Sex Crime Defense Attorneys

Skilled Child Sex Crime Defense Lawyers Challenging Serious Accusations in Timonium, MD

Accusations of sex crimes become much more serious when it is alleged that a minor was involved. Many of these crimes are felony offenses, and anyone convicted of a child sex crime may be required to register as a sex offender for years, or for life in some cases. If you or somebody you love has been accused of sexual misconduct with a minor, contact a Timonium, MD child sex crime defense lawyer today.

At Posner & Cord, LLC, our attorneys have years of experience in criminal law, and we have earned a reputation for strong counsel and representation. Our firm will work to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed, striving to protect your future.

What Charges Can You Face for Child Pornography in Maryland?

Child pornography charges in Maryland, also referred to as child sexual abuse material offenses, can involve possession, distribution, or production of prohibited images or videos. Possession charges carry up to five years in prison for a first offense, with longer sentences for repeat offenses. Distribution and production charges are treated more severely and can bring decades in prison and significant fines.

These cases often begin with an investigation involving internet service providers, online platforms, or federal agencies, and some cases are prosecuted in federal court rather than state court. Federal charges can carry mandatory minimum sentences. A conviction at either level generally requires registration as a sex offender and can affect where a person may live and work for years.

Rape and Sexual Offense Accusations Involving Minors

Rape and sexual offense accusations involving minors are prosecuted under Maryland laws that focus heavily on the age of the accuser and the age difference between the parties. In many of these cases, consent is not a legal defense, as the law considers minors below certain ages unable to consent. Charges can range from fourth-degree sexual offense to first-degree rape, depending on the specific allegations.

Maryland also has a separate charge for sexual abuse of a minor, which can apply to a parent, household member, or person responsible for a child's care or supervision. This offense carries up to 25 years in prison and can be charged alongside other sex crimes.

Charged With Solicitation of a Minor?

Solicitation of a minor in Maryland generally involves allegations that a person tried to persuade a minor to engage in sexual activity, often through online communication. This charge can apply even when the person on the other end of the conversation was actually an undercover officer posing as a minor. A conviction can bring up to 10 years in prison and a significant fine.

Many solicitation cases arise from sting operations. These investigations can raise legal questions about how officers communicated with the accused, who first introduced sexual topics, and whether the accused actually intended to act. The full record of messages often tells a more complete story than the selected portions prosecutors present.

How Our Firm Can Fight Child Sex Crime Charges in Maryland

Our firm fights child sex crime charges in Maryland by examining each stage of the investigation. We review search warrants to determine whether police had a lawful basis to seize and search phones, computers, and other devices. When evidence was obtained improperly, we can ask the court to exclude it.

In cases involving digital evidence, we may work with forensic analysts to determine who had access to a device and whether files were knowingly possessed. In cases based on statements from a child, we review recorded interviews for suggestive questioning or inconsistencies. We also prepare for the possibility of trial while evaluating any plea offers, with close attention to registration consequences.

Contact Our Timonium, MD Child Sex Crime Defense Lawyers

At Posner & Cord, LLC, we provide confidential, discreet defense for people facing child sex crime allegations in state and federal court. Contact our Timonium, MD child sex crime defense attorneys or call 410-252-0600 to set up a free consultation.