Defending Your Reputation & Protecting Your Future
Being accused of a sex crime, whether indecent exposure or rape, is extremely serious. A conviction can lead to life-altering consequences, including a lengthy prison sentence, thousands of dollars in fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Make no mistake—if you are being charged with a sex crime in Annapolis, Maryland, your reputation, freedom, and future are all on the line.
At Hartman Attorneys at Law, we provide aggressive defense for people who are under investigation or who have been arrested for sexual offenses. Our Annapolis sex crimes attorney brings a wealth of experience to his practice, including experience as a former prosecutor. As a Certified Criminal Law Attorney, Attorney Christian Hartman has the expertise, knowledge, and skill to protect your rights.
Continue reading to learn more or call us now at (410) 266-3232 for a free and confidential consultation.
Understanding Sex Crimes in Maryland
Sex crimes encompass a wide range of offenses, from sexual assault and exploitation to indecent exposure and child pornography. In Maryland, these charges carry serious consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and lasting impacts on both your personal and professional life.
Common Types of Sex Crimes
Many different types of criminal offenses fall under the umbrella of “sex crimes.”
Some of the most common include:
- Sexual Assault: Unwanted sexual contact or behavior
- Rape: Non-consensual sexual intercourse
- Child Exploitation: Involving minors in sexual activities or producing child pornography
- Indecent Exposure: Exposing oneself inappropriately in public settings
- Prostitution and Solicitation: Engaging in or soliciting sexual acts for money
The state takes sex crimes seriously and prosecutes these cases vigorously. In nearly all cases, prosecutors seek the maximum penalties. It is crucial, therefore, that you work with an experienced sex crimes defense attorney who can help navigate the criminal justice system.
Penalties for Sex Crimes
In Maryland, the penalties for sex crimes vary significantly based on the specific offense, the circumstances surrounding it, and the defendant’s criminal history.
If convicted, you face the following consequences:
- Anywhere from a few years to life imprisonment
- Up to tens of thousands of dollars in fines
- Mandatory sex offender registration
- Supervised release with conditions (probation)
In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction can have a serious impact on various aspects of your life. A criminal record and being made to register as a sex offender can affect everything from your ability to get a job to where you are allowed to live or go.
Why You Need a Strong Defense
If you or someone you care about has been charged with a sex crime, you are likely feeling scared or even overwhelmed about what comes next. It’s crucial to have a competent legal advocate who understands both sides of the courtroom. As a former prosecutor and a Certified Criminal Law Attorney, our sex crimes lawyer in Annapolis has what it takes to guide you and defend you during this difficult time.
Attorney Hartman knows how to challenge the prosecution’s case, looking for weaknesses and opportunities to seek reduced penalties or even a dismissal of the charges. He can advise you on the best course of action and make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Key Defense Strategies in Sex Crime Cases
There are several possible defenses to sex crime charges. The exact strategy that’s best suited to your case depends on the unique factors involved, including the nature of the charges, the evidence for and against you, your criminal record, and more.
Some possible defenses to sex crime charges in Maryland include:
- Challenging Evidence: This involves carefully scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence for reliability and legality to determine whether evidence should be admissible.
- Consent: It may be possible to defend against sex crime charges by demonstrating that the encounter was, in fact, consensual.
- False Allegations: Some sex crime claims are made with malicious intent. It may be possible to defend against such accusations by proving that the claims have no merit.
- Mental State: An assessment of the defendant’s state of mind at the time of the alleged offense can be useful in defending against sex crime allegations.
If you have been accused of a sex crime in Annapolis, Maryland, it’s essential that you understand your rights. You have the right to legal representation, the right to remain silent, and the right to a fair trial. You should avoid speaking to law enforcement until you have secured the assistance of a skilled criminal defense lawyer.
Get in Touch with Our Annapolis Sex Crime Attorney
If you or a loved one has been charged with a sex crime, do not hesitate to seek legal help. With our extensive background in criminal law and a strong commitment to defending your rights, we are here to advocate for you and your future. Reach out to Hartman Attorneys at Law today to discuss your legal options with our sex crime attorney in Annapolis.
Call (410) 266-3232 or contact us online for a free consultation.