Timonium Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys

Skilled Sexual Assault Defense Lawyers Challenging Criminal Charges in Timonium, MD

Few criminal charges in Maryland are treated as seriously as rape. Depending on the details of the alleged offense, a conviction could mean life in prison. With that in mind, do not brush off accusations of rape, even if you know the allegations to be unfounded. To protect yourself, consider working with a Timonium, Maryland sexual assault defense lawyer today.

At Posner & Cord, LLC, we represent clients accused of sex crimes, including felony sex offenses. We have years of experience, so you can rely on our insights as we guide you through your case and explore your options to contest an accusation of rape.

How Maryland Differentiates Sexual Offenses and Rape

Maryland separates sex crimes into degrees based on the type of conduct involved and the circumstances surrounding it. Rape charges generally involve allegations of intercourse or another sexual act committed without consent, by force or threat, or with someone legally unable to consent. Maryland divides rape into first and second degree, with first-degree rape reserved for cases involving certain aggravating circumstances.

Sexual offenses in the third and fourth degree usually involve allegations of unwanted sexual contact rather than intercourse. These charges can still carry significant penalties, particularly in the third degree, which is a felony. Fourth-degree sexual offense is a misdemeanor, but it can still lead to jail time and sex offender registration requirements. The specific charge often depends on the facts the state believes it can prove, and prosecutors may file several related charges based on the same allegation.

Aggravating Factors in Sexual Assault Cases

Aggravating factors in sexual assault cases can raise the level of the charge and increase the potential sentence. In Maryland, these factors often determine whether a case is charged as a first-degree or lower-degree offense. Common aggravating factors include:

• Displaying or using a dangerous weapon
• Causing serious injury
• Threatening the accuser or another person with death, serious harm, or kidnapping
• Allegations that another person helped commit the offense
• Committing the alleged offense during a burglary or similar crime
• Cases involving young victims

The presence of an aggravating factor can turn a case carrying years of potential prison time into one with a possible life sentence, so challenging these allegations is often a critical part of the defense.

How We Can Defend You Against Allegations of Rape and Sexual Offenses

Defending against allegations of rape and sexual offenses requires a careful review of every piece of evidence in the case. Our firm begins by examining the timeline of events and comparing the accuser's statements across police reports, interviews, and medical records. Inconsistencies in these accounts can raise questions about the reliability of the allegations.

Physical and digital evidence may play a significant role in your defense. We review DNA results, forensic exams, and lab procedures to determine whether testing was handled correctly. Phone records, messages, location data, and social media activity may support a defense based on consent, mistaken identity, or a false accusation. When appropriate, we work with investigators and other professionals to analyze the evidence.

Our attorneys also look at how police handled the investigation, including whether officers followed proper procedures during questioning and searches. Statements or evidence obtained in violation of your rights may be excluded from trial.

Contact Our Timonium Sexual Assault Defense Lawyers Today

An accusation alone can affect your job, your family, and your standing in the community. Our attorneys can step in early and communicate with investigators on your behalf. At Posner & Cord, LLC, we defend people accused of rape and sexual offenses with discretion and a thorough review of the evidence. Call 410-252-0600 or contact our Timonium, MD sexual assault defense attorneys to schedule a free consultation.