Gaithersburg Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer

Trusted Sex Crimes Attorney for Rape and Sexual Assault Charges in Gaithersburg, MD

Being arrested for a sex crime can feel like the end of the world. While the legal consequences can be severe and permanent, a charge is not the same as a conviction. Child pornography, sexual assault, solicitation of a minor, and rape are some of the most serious criminal offenses a person can face, and convictions can result in large fines, lifetime sentences in prison, and inclusion in the sex offender registry. Do not face these challenges alone. Get legal help from an attorney immediately.

The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC. has built credibility for the caliber and scope of our legal representation in criminal cases. We treat every sex crime allegation with the utmost seriousness while providing compassionate representation and fighting tooth and nail on behalf of our clients. Our team is available 24/7 to provide you with the personal legal support you deserve.

How Serious are Maryland Rape Charges?

Under the Maryland Criminal Code, rape is classified into first-degree and second-degree offenses. Both types of offenses are charged as felonies, and a conviction in either category will result in mandatory sex offender registration for life. Out of all possible sex crimes, rape is one of the most serious accusations, and it is defined as any act of non-consensual intercourse. Intercourse can be considered rape if the victim is under 14 years old and the perpetrator is more than four years older, if the act is accomplished by force or threat without the consent of the victim, or if the victim did not have the physical or mental capacity to give consent.

Second-degree rape is punishable by a maximum sentence of 20 years, while a first-degree rape conviction can lead to life in prison. In cases involving the alleged rape of a child under the age of 13 by an adult, a life sentence without the possibility of parole may apply. In general, first-degree rape charges may apply if a situation allegedly involved specific aggravating factors, including:

• The use of a dangerous weapon during the act
• Threatening the victim with serious injury or death
• Committing rape during a burglary
• Inflicting serious harm during the act
• Committing the crime along with at least one other person

In cases of rape, the prosecution must prove that the defendant committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. As your legal counsel, the lawyer at The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC. can question the testimony and evidence presented against you, demonstrating that there is reasonable doubt and working to secure a dismissal or acquittal.

Understanding Child Pornography Charges

All offenses related to child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) are serious. The least serious charges that may apply in these cases will be related to viewing, accessing, or possessing child pornography. This offense is a misdemeanor crime punishable by as much as five years in prison, and separate charges and penalties may apply for each instance of child pornography that a person allegedly possessed.

The Old Line State will impose harsher penalties if a person is convicted of an offense involving distributing or producing CSAM. A first conviction for child porn production or distribution can lead to up to 10 years behind bars and fines as high as $25,000. For a second offense, the penalties will double, with a maximum of 20 years in prison and $50,000 in fines.

Meet With a Gaithersburg, Maryland Sex Crimes Attorney Today

When dealing with sex crime accusations, you cannot afford to wait to get help from legal counsel. At The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC., we are fluent in English, Spanish, and Arabic. With over 300 five-star reviews, our satisfied clients can attest to our aggressive, diligent criminal defense skills. To arrange a free consultation, contact our Gaithersburg sex crimes lawyer at 301-589-9500.