Tough, Smart Defense You Can Rely On

Essex Sex Crime Lawyer

Q: What Is Maryland’s Legal Definition Of Sexual Offense?

Under Maryland criminal law, a sex crime generally involves nonconsensual sexual contact or a sexual act. The law classifies sex offenses into four degrees based on the nature of the conduct and the surrounding circumstances. First-degree offenses involve engaging in a sexual act, other than vaginal intercourse, by force or threat of force—often involving a weapon—and can result in life imprisonment. Second-degree offenses include committing a sexual act without consent, or when the alleged victim is mentally incapacitated, physically helpless, or under the age of 14, and may carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison. Third-degree offenses involve sexual contact without consent, the use of a weapon capable of causing serious physical injury, or cases where the alleged victim is under 14, and can lead to up to 10 years’ imprisonment. Fourth-degree offenses generally involve nonconsensual sexual contact or conduct involving a victim under 14 and may result in up to one year in jail. As your lawyer, I will take immediate, strategic action to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.

Sex crime allegations often carry severe legal consequences, social stigma and emotional stress that can affect your career. If you are facing these charges, hiring an experienced Essex sex crime lawyer is critical to protecting your rights.

I am attorney Charles L. Waechter of the Law Offices of Charles L. Waechter, and I represent individuals accused of sex crimes in Essex and throughout Baltimore County. For over 40 years, I have been handling criminal defense cases in Maryland courts.

Proven Defense Against Sex Crime Charges In Baltimore County

As an experienced Baltimore County sex crime lawyer, I handle a wide range of sex crime allegations, including:

Child molestation: Inappropriate contact or misconduct with a child.
Sexual assault: Unwanted sexual contact or disputes regarding consent.
Rape and attempted rape: Allegations of force, threats or lack of consent.
Solicitation or prostitution: Sex in exchange for money and enticing someone to engage in prostitution.
Possession of child pornography: Possessing or distributing child sexual abuse material.
Internet sex crimes: Online solicitation and digital communication sex offenses.

The Law Offices of Charles L. Waechter has a proven record of successfully handling these sensitive matters in Essex and across Baltimore County.

What Is Maryland’s Legal Definition Of Sexual Offense?

Under Maryland criminal law, a sex crime is a nonconsensual sexual contact or act. The law divides sex offenses into four degrees, including:

First-degree: Engaging in a sexual act that is not vaginal intercourse by force or threat of force, often with a weapon. It can lead to life imprisonment.
Second-degree: Sexual act with another person without consent, or if the victim is mentally incapacitated, physically helpless or under 14. The crime can lead to 20 years in prison.
Third degree: Sexual contact without consent, using a weapon that can cause serious physical injury, or when the victim is under 14. It can lead to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Fourth degree: Sexual contact without consent, or if the victim is under 14 years. It can lead to a one-year prison sentence.

As your lawyer, I will take immediate strategic action to protect your rights and future.

Defend Yourself With A Seasoned Essex Sex Crime Attorney

Facing sex crime charges in Baltimore County, Maryland? Call the Law Offices of Charles L. Waechter to talk to an experienced Essex sex crime lawyer to review your case, explain your legal options and fight aggressively to protect your rights. Call 1-410-886-7476 today to schedule your free initial consultation.

Practice Areas

Maryland’s Premier Criminal Defense Firm

Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyer Charles L. Waechter

More About Charlie