North Bethesda Sex Crimes Attorneys

Lawyers Defending Against Sex Crime Charges in North Bethesda, MD

Few accusations can change a person's life as quickly as allegations that they have committed sex crimes. Long before a person ever faces a trial for these types of charges, they may lose their job, experience strain on their family relationships, and be treated as if they are guilty by people in their community. In many cases, sex offenses are felonies that carry long prison sentences, and a conviction can also lead to years or even a lifetime on the sex offender registry.

At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, our lawyers defend people in North Bethesda who are under investigation or have been charged with sex crimes. Our lawyers have extensive experience handling these types of cases in criminal courts across Maryland. We know the laws that address these offenses and the evidence that may play a role in a case. We have the skill to challenge evidence and respond to accusations while protecting our clients' rights.

We understand how isolating accusations of sex crimes can be. We will treat every client with discretion and respect while making sure they can develop successful defense strategies. By explaining exactly what will happen during a case and what issues may be addressed, we can make sure clients are fully prepared to defend against convictions. We will work closely with clients to prepare for all court appearances, including advising them on how to dress and present a good picture to a judge. We will advocate for outcomes that will protect our clients' futures.

Child Sex Crimes

Prosecutors and courts treat offenses involving minors as some of the most serious sex crime charges. Specific offenses that may be addressed in these cases include:

Online Solicitation of a Minor

Under Criminal Law Article § 3-324, it is a felony to attempt to cause a minor to engage in prohibited sexual activities. A person could be charged with a sex crime if they allegedly communicated with a child online and encouraged the child to take and share sexually explicit photos or videos, or if they allegedly attempted to meet the child in person to engage in sexual activity.

Many cases that lead to charges of online solicitation of a minor involve undercover sting operations where officers communicate with people on social media, chat apps, or dating platforms. A person can be charged with an offense if they allegedly believed that they were interacting with a minor, regardless of whether the other person was an undercover officer or another adult. Defending against online solicitation charges will often require a close review of message history, the methods used by investigators, and other information that may determine whether entrapment occurred.

Child Pornography

People are prohibited from producing, distributing, or possessing any visual depictions of minors who are engaging in sexual conduct. These types of images or videos are often referred to as child sexual abuse materials (CSAM).

Investigations into child pornography may begin with search warrants based on internet activity traced to a specific IP address. As we defend against child pornography charges, our lawyers can take steps to determine whether searches by police were lawful, whether a person knowingly possessed CSAM, or whether someone else who had access to a device or network accessed or downloaded the materials in question.

Prostitution, Solicitation, and Sex Trafficking

In situations where a person is accused of engaging in commercial sex acts, paying for sexual activity, or being involved in the sex trade, serious criminal charges may apply. Our attorneys can help clients defend against charges of:

• Prostitution and Solicitation: Criminal Law Article § 11-303 prohibits engaging in prostitution, and § 11-306 makes it a crime to solicit or procure another person for prostitution. These charges are often classified as misdemeanors, but they can still result in jail time, fines, and a public criminal record.
• Sex Trafficking: Under Criminal Law Article § 3-1102, a person may face felony charges based on accusations of recruiting or benefiting from another person's involvement in prostitution. Harboring or transporting a person engaging in prostitution may also be considered sex trafficking. A conviction could lead to up to 25 years in prison, and the penalties may increase when the alleged victim is a minor.

Rape and Sexual Offense Charges

Accusations of sexual assault can lead to charges that carry serious penalties. The specific charges may depend on the activities that allegedly took place, the ages of the people involved, and whether a person allegedly used force, carried a weapon, or inflicted serious injuries.

Rape in the First and Second Degree

Second-degree rape, as defined in Criminal Law Article § 3-304, involves sexual intercourse or a sexual act without the consent of the other party in which a person allegedly used force or made threats. A person could also be charged with this offense if the other party allegedly could not consent to sexual acts due to intoxication or another mental or physical condition. More serious charges will apply in cases involving first-degree rape, which may apply when a person is accused of using a weapon or inflicting a serious injury while committing an offense.

Third and Fourth Degree Sexual Offenses

A sexual offense generally involves sexual contact other than intercourse without consent. While third-degree sexual offenses are classified as felonies, fourth-degree sexual offenses are typically charged as misdemeanors.

Building a Defense Against Sex Crime Charges

Our legal team will closely review the evidence in a case to determine the best defense strategies to use as we help people who have been charged with sex crimes. We may challenge the credibility and consistency of an accuser's statements, question DNA or other forensic evidence, and take steps to suppress evidence gathered through unlawful searches or improper interrogations.

Should You Talk to Police During a Sex Crime Investigation?

If police contact you about an alleged sex crime, you have the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. Statements made in an effort to "clear things up" or explain your side of the story could become evidence against you. Before answering any questions or saying anything at all to investigators, state that you want to speak to an attorney. By contacting us as soon as possible during your case, we can take steps to protect your rights and determine the best ways to defend against the charges you may face.

Contact Our North Bethesda, Maryland Sex Crimes Lawyers

When responding to a sex crime accusation, you will need to make sure you have a strong legal advocate on your side to help you resolve your case successfully. At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, we will investigate the allegations against you, determine when evidence may be challenged, build an effective defense strategy, and stand by your side throughout your entire case. Contact our North Bethesda, MD sex crimes defense attorneys at 301-762-7500 to set up your free consultation.