Towson Rape Defense Attorney

Defense Attorney For Clients Accused of Rape in Maryland

In Maryland, sexual assault and rape charges are among the most severe criminal allegations a person can face. These charges carry substantial penalties that can impact nearly every area of the accused's life. A conviction for rape can result in a lengthy prison sentence and large fines. A person will have a criminal record, and they will be required to register as a sex offender, which can place limits on where they can live in the future, the types of jobs they can hold, and their ability to pursue educational opportunities or receive loans. Even if a person is not convicted, their reputation may be permanently damaged, and their relationships with friends and family and their standing in the community may never recover.

Because of these serious consequences, it is crucial for anyone who has been charged with rape to understand the specific accusations against them, the penalties that they may face if they are convicted, and the steps they can take to defend themselves. An experienced criminal defense attorney can be an invaluable source of support during this time, helping them respond to accusations, protect their reputation, and defend against criminal charges.

At Seger Law, LLC, we believe that everyone deserves to have legal representation, regardless of the nature of their charges or the seriousness of the accusations against them. We treat our clients with compassion and dignity, advising them on the best steps they can take to protect their rights. We will be honest and realistic about expectations during a case, ensuring that our clients understand their options at all times.

Rape Charges in Maryland

Under Maryland law, the offense of rape generally involves sexual intercourse that occurred when one party did not give consent. Rape involves vaginal intercourse and "sexual acts," which may include anal sex, oral sex, or penetration with an object. Other forms of sexual contact fall that occurred without consent fall under the category of sexual offenses. Rape is a felony offense, and charges will fall into one of two categories:

• First-degree rape: This offense involves engaging in intercourse through the use or threat of force when using or displaying a dangerous weapon such as a gun or knife; strangling or suffocating the victim; threatening or causing the victim to fear that they will be killed, seriously injured, or kidnapped; being aided and abetted by another person; or committing an offense in connection with burglary. This charge may also apply if rape was allegedly committed against a child under the age of 16 in connection with kidnapping or a related offense or if a person who is at least 18 years old is accused of engaging in intercourse with a child under the age of 13 through the use of force or threats. A conviction for first-degree rape may result in a life sentence in prison without the possibility of parole. A person convicted of first-degree rape against a child under the age of 13 must serve a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 25 years.
• Second-degree rape: This offense involves most other situations where a person is accused of engaging in intercourse through force or threats of force. It may also apply in situations where a person is accused of engaging in intercourse when the other party was mentally incapacitated, cognitively impaired, physically helpless, or otherwise unable to give consent. Any form of intercourse with a child under the age of 14 in which the other party was at least four years older than the child is considered second-degree rape, and a person over the age of 18 who engages in consensual intercourse with a child under the age of 13 may also be charged with this offense. Second-degree rape carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison in most cases. However, in cases where a person over the age of 18 is accused of engaging in intercourse with a child under the age of 13, they may face a life sentence, and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years will be imposed upon conviction.

Contact Our Towson, MD Rape Defense Lawyer

Rape charges in Maryland are extremely serious, and legal representation is crucial for anyone who has been accused of this offense or related crimes. At Seger Law, LLC, our skilled Maryland criminal defense attorney can provide guidance and support to help navigate these challenging situations. We will work to ensure that a defendant is treated fairly and justly while advocating for their rights at all times. Contact us at 443-208-4692 to arrange a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist with cases involving sensitive crimes.