Speak to our team today
301-579-3429

301-579-3429

Personal Attention.
Aggressive Defense.

Photo of Thomas C. Mooney

Sexual Assault And Rape Charges: The Aggressive Defense You Need

Those who are accused of sexual assault and rape in Maryland face uphill battles. While the state bears the burden of proving you guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, sex crimes are very unpopular and jurors are likely to have preconceived notions.

At the Law Offices of Thomas C. Mooney in Upper Marlboro, we provide skilled and aggressive criminal defense against sexual assault and rape charges. Our lawyers work very hard to protect the rights of our clients who are charged with sex crimes — taking the prosecution to task to prove absolutely every element of a case, communicating effectively with juries during trials.

We win tough cases. Lead attorney Thomas C. Mooney has tried two rape cases in 2015 alone, prevailing in both.

Consequences Of Sexual Assault And Rape Charges

Maryland’s criminal laws regarding sex offenses are complex and ever evolving. There are many different offenses and classifications, which can make it very challenging for you to understand what you are up against.

The following chart explains a few of the charges you could face in Maryland and the criminal penalties of a conviction; as your law firm, we would strive to prevent the serious consequences of these charges by pursuing every possible avenue to protect your freedom.

Charge

 Crime Imprisonment Notes
First-degree rape Nonconsensual vaginal intercourse by force or threat of force. *Up to a life sentence If a weapon is used, or the victim was threatened with death, you could receive life without parole. If you are over 18 and the victim is under 15, a 25-year minimum applies.
Second-degree rape Nonconsensual vaginal intercourse by force or threat of force. *Up to 20 years, generally In some cases, the sentence can be increased. If you are over 18 and the victim is under 15, a 15-year minimum applies.
First-degree sexual offense Nonconsensual sexual act by force or threat of force with a weapon. *Up to a life sentence If the victim is under 16, you could receive life without parole. If you are over 18 and the victim is under 13, a 25-year mandatory minimum applies.
Second-degree sexual offense Nonconsensual sexual act by force or threat of force; the victim is mentally disabled or under 14 and you are at least four years older. *Up to 20 years, generally If the victim is under 13, a 15-year mandatory minimum applies.

An Overview Of Maryland’s Rape Laws

In Maryland, both rape and sexual offenses are criminalized, and rape has two levels of offenses:

  • Rape in the first degree involves sexual intercourse without the other person’s consent or using threats or weapons. The penalty is a maximum sentence of up to 25 years.
  • Rape in the second degree is engaging in vaginal intercourse with another without their consent or with a mentally/physically incapacitated person. The penalty is up to 20 years in prison.

You will be required to register as a sex offender for 15 years to a lifetime, depending on the crime in Maryland.

How To Fight Or Defend Against Rape Accusations

Being accused of rape requires strategic defense like:

  • Gathering and challenging forensic evidence
  • Establishing your alibi through various types of evidence
  • Presenting character and expert witness testimony

If you have been accused of rape, seek support and guidance. There are therapy services and organizations specializing in helping those accused of sexual offenses navigate the legal process and cope with the emotional toll. Seeking legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney as early as possible can help you fight the allegations.

Talk To Us First: Investigators Are Not On Your Side

Whether you have already been charged or are only under investigation at this point, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible. If the police are trying to contact you about a sex crime, they are trying to build a case.

 
Our early involvement in sex offense cases can be critical to the outcome. We offer free, confidential case reviews. Call 301-579-3429 or send us an email to schedule an appointment. We will answer your questions and discuss your defense options during a no-obligation consultation.

 
 
Serving cities in and around Prince George’s County, and all of Maryland, including: Waldorf, Bowie, Fort Washington, College Park, Laurel, Clinton, Landover, Camp Springs, Mitchellville, Forestville, Capitol Heights, and Upper Marlboro.

Related Posts

Defining consent in Maryland

On Behalf of | May 24, 2018 |

The state of Maryland does not have a specific definition of consent for purposes of determining if a sex act is lawful. However, there are many factors that can be looked at when determining if a sex crime was committed. For instance, consent cannot be given if a...

Practice
Areas