Columbia Sexual Assault Lawyers
Defending Against Sexual Assault Charges in Maryland
Sexual assault is a serious crime that can result in life-altering consequences for the victim. In Maryland, sexual assault is defined as any type of sexual contact or behavior that is unwanted, nonconsensual, and/or aggressive.
At Albers & Associates, our Columbia sexual assault attorneys are committed to protecting the rights of victims and helping them obtain the justice they deserve. If you have been charged with sexual assault, you need to contact our firm immediately to schedule a consultation.
Call our sexual assault lawyer in Columbia at (443) 665-8030 or use our online contact form.
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Maryland?
In Maryland, sexual assault is categorized as a felony offense. The penalties for this crime can vary widely depending on the specifics of the case and the victim's circumstances. However, in most cases, the convicted party will face severe consequences, including incarceration, fines, and a criminal record.
Depending on the circumstances of the case, Maryland sexual assault charges can result in:
- Misdemeanor convictions: Up to five years in jail, up to $2,500 in fines, or both
- Felony convictions: 10 years to life in prison, up to $5,000 in fines, or both
- Life sentences: Life in prison with the possibility of parole after 15 years
In some cases, the victim may choose not to press charges. Even if the victim does not wish to pursue criminal charges, the victim may still have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the abuser. An experienced Columbia sexual assault lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.
What Is the Legal Definition of Sexual Assault?
Maryland's legal definition of sexual assault focuses on the idea of consent. In order to be considered sexual assault, sexual contact must be non-consensual. If the victim gives consent, then the contact is not sexual assault. This means that sexual assault is different from rape, which is defined as non-consensual sexual contact regardless of whether the victim consented.
Sexual contact is any type of physical contact that is sexual in nature. This can include sexual intercourse, oral sex, or any other type of sexual activity. If the sexual contact is aggressive, such as forced intercourse, then the charges can be especially severe.
Sexual assault does not have to involve sexual intercourse.
In Maryland, sexual assault charges can result from:
- Sexual contact: Any type of sexual contact that is unwanted and nonconsensual
- Aggressive sexual contact: Any type of sexual contact that is unwanted, nonconsensual, and aggressive
- Sexual contact with a minor: Any type of sexual contact with a minor, even if the minor consented
- Sexual contact with a disabled person: Any type of sexual contact with a disabled person, even if the disabled person consented
What Are the Common Defenses to Sexual Assault?
There are many different defenses to sexual assault charges. An experienced Columbia sexual assault lawyer can help you identify the defenses that are most applicable to your case.
Common defenses to sexual assault charges include:
- Incapacitation: The victim was incapacitated and unable to give consent
- Mistaken identity: The wrong person is accused of the crime
- False accusations: The accuser is lying, and the sexual contact was consensual
- Lack of evidence: There is not enough evidence to prove the charges
What Are Some Common Sexual Assault Cases?
There are various common forms of sexual assault that can take place in different contexts. These cases involve instances where the perpetrator, who can be a family member, friend, romantic partner, or stranger, engages in nonconsensual sexual contact as a means of asserting power and control over the victim.
How Our Sexual Assault Lawyer Can Help You
Protecting Your Rights from the Start
- Ensure your constitutional rights are protected
- Prevent you from making statements that could be used against you
- Communicate with police and investigators on your behalf
- Review the legality of searches, seizures, and interrogations
- Early legal representation can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.
Conducting a Thorough and Independent Investigation
- Review all police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence
- Identify inconsistencies or contradictions in the accuser’s story
- Locate and interview witnesses that the police may have overlooked
- Examine text messages, emails, social media, and other digital evidence
- Work with investigators and expert witnesses when needed
- Our goal is to uncover the full truth and expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Challenging the Evidence Against You
- Whether the accusation is based on consent disputes, misidentification, or false allegations
- Whether forensic or medical evidence was properly collected and handled
- Whether law enforcement followed proper procedures
- Whether the prosecution can actually meet its burden of proof
- If your rights were violated or the evidence is unreliable, we will fight to have it suppressed or dismissed.
Building a Strong Defense Strategy
- Showing the encounter was consensual
- Proving the accusation is false or motivated by revenge, regret, or personal gain
- Demonstrating mistaken identity or a lack of evidence
- Exposing credibility issues with witnesses or the accuser
- We prepare every case as if it is going to trial, which puts you in the strongest possible position.
Representing You in Court and Negotiations
- Negotiate for reduced charges
- Seek alternative resolutions
- Fight for dismissal or acquittal whenever possible
- Our priority is always to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Protecting Your Future and Your Reputation
- Minimize damage to your record and reputation
- Help you avoid or limit sex offender registration when possible
- Preserve your ability to work, live, and move forward with your life
Contact Our Sexual Assault Lawyer in Columbia Today
In Columbia, MD, when it comes to addressing the devastating impact of sexual assault charges, there's one name you can trust: Albers & Associates. As Maryland's top choice, our award-winning law firm is dedicated to providing tenacious advocacy for those accused of sexual assault.
With just one call, our experienced Columbia sexual assault attorneys are ready to provide representation and advocate for you during this time. Take advantage of our free consultation to discuss your legal defense options.
Call our Columbia sexual assault attorney today at (443) 665-8030!