Being accused of a sex crime is life-altering—especially if you genuinely believed the other person was of legal age. In Maryland, claiming you didn’t know someone was underage does not automatically protect you from criminal prosecution. If you're facing allegations, you may be wondering: What now?
This is where the stakes are high, and the law is often unforgiving. When the charge involves an underage individual, your future, freedom, and reputation are on the line. That’s why securing experienced underage sex crime defense is not just important—it’s critical.
Why Maryland Law Is Strict on Age of Consent
Maryland law sets the age of consent at 16 years old, which means that anyone younger than that cannot legally consent to sexual activity, even if they appeared older or lied about their age. This is known as a “strict liability” offense—meaning intent does not have to be proven for you to be convicted.
What Does This Mean for You?
- You can be charged even if the person said they were 18
- You can be charged even if the person looked like an adult
- Ignorance or mistake about their age is not a legal defense
These realities make underage sex crime defense incredibly complex. The law is not on your side when it comes to mistaken belief. The only way to protect yourself is by taking legal action—fast.
What Charges Might You Be Facing?
If you’re accused of engaging in sexual activity with someone under the age of consent, several different charges may apply depending on the facts of your case.
Potential Charges in Maryland:
- Sexual solicitation of a minor
- Statutory rape or third-degree sex offense
- Possession or distribution of child pornography
- Online solicitation or communication with a minor
Each of these charges carries severe penalties, including prison time, sex offender registration, and permanent damage to your record and reputation.
Similar Post: What Am I Facing on a Charge of Distribution of Child Pornography?
Can You Still Build a Defense If You Didn’t Know Their Age?
Yes—but it will require a strategic, evidence-based legal approach. Although Maryland does not recognize a mistake-of-age defense, there are still legal tools available to challenge the charges and protect your rights.
An experienced sex crime defense attorney may be able to:
- Question the credibility of the accuser
- Challenge the way evidence was obtained
- Investigate online communications and context
- Argue for reduced charges based on the specific circumstances
- Explore constitutional violations during arrest or questioning
Each case is unique, and the details matter. That’s why it’s essential to involve a legal professional early in the process.
Similar Post: Maryland Lawmakers Redefine Consent in Sexual Assault Cases
How the Court Views These Cases
Sex crime cases involving minors are among the most aggressively prosecuted. Judges and prosecutors often err on the side of caution, particularly when there’s public pressure or the media is involved. However, the law still requires the prosecution to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
What Judges Will Consider:
- The age difference between you and the alleged victim
- Any history of prior offenses
- Whether coercion, force, or deception were involved
- Evidence of communications (texts, emails, DMs)
- How and where the interaction took place
This is not a situation where you can afford to “wait and see.” A proactive defense is your best shot at securing a fair outcome.
What to Do If You’ve Been Accused of a Sex Crime in Maryland
Accusations of this nature can feel paralyzing, but taking action quickly gives you the best chance of protecting your rights and future.
Immediate Steps You Should Take:
- Do Not Contact the Alleged Victim: Even if you're shocked or confused, reaching out could hurt your case and lead to new charges.
- Preserve All Communication: Save any messages, emails, or social media interactions that may support your case.
- Avoid Making Statements to Police: You have the right to remain silent. Do not explain your side without a lawyer present.
- Consult With a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately: An experienced underage sex crime defense attorney in Towson can begin building your case from day one.
Similar Post: Can DNA Evidence Alone Convict You of Date Rape in Maryland Courts?
What Are the Penalties If You’re Convicted?
The consequences for a conviction can follow you for the rest of your life. Even a first-time offender may face:
Legal Penalties:
- Up to 10 years or more in prison depending on the charge
- Mandatory sex offender registration
- Probation or parole restrictions
- Fines and court fees
Personal Consequences:
- Loss of employment or inability to work with minors
- Restrictions on where you can live or travel
- Permanent damage to your personal and professional reputation
Many people assume that if they didn’t mean to break the law, they’ll be shown leniency—but that’s not how sex crime statutes work in Maryland. The system is not designed to forgive mistakes—it’s designed to protect minors.
How an Attorney Can Help You Navigate the System
Being charged with a sex offense involving a minor is terrifying. But you don’t have to face it alone. A skilled criminal defense attorney will evaluate every detail of your case, from the accuser’s background to the way evidence was collected.
Your Defense Attorney Will:
- Identify possible legal defenses
- Negotiate with prosecutors for dismissal or reduced charges
- Represent you in court and hearings
- Help avoid missteps during the investigation
- Work to protect your rights and reputation at every stage
You deserve a defense strategy tailored to the seriousness of your situation—and to the truth of what really happened.
Don’t Let a Mistake Destroy Your Future — Schedule a Consultation With an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney From Maronick Law in Towson, MD
Even if you didn’t know the other person was underage, you could still face devastating criminal penalties. In these cases, your future hinges on what you do next—and who you choose to represent you.
At Maronick Law, we’ve defended countless individuals accused of serious crimes, including sex offenses. We understand the emotional weight of these cases, and we know how to build powerful legal defenses, even when the odds seem stacked against you.
If you’re facing charges and need underage sex crime defense, don’t wait. Call Maronick Law today for a confidential consultation: 443-351-6657. We’ll listen, advise, and fight to protect your rights every step of the way. We represent clients in Towson, Columbia, Fulton, Millington, Tolchester, Aspen Hill and throughout Maryland.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice tailored to your specific situation, please contact our office directly.