Student, Teacher Sexual Relations Defense Attorneys in MD Defending Against Students’ Allegations
Allegations of sexual abuse in Maryland schools can devastate careers, destroy reputations, and result in serious criminal penalties that include lengthy prison sentences and lifetime sex offender registration. These cases often involve complex interactions between criminal law, education law, and administrative proceedings that can simultaneously threaten your freedom, professional credentials, and future employment prospects. Our Maryland sexual abuse in school lawyers are here to help you launch a strong defense.
School-related sexual abuse charges require an experienced Maryland sexual abuse in school lawyer who understands both the criminal justice system and the unique aspects of cases involving educational institutions, such as mandatory reporting requirements and Title IX investigations. When you’re facing life-changing charges, the criminal defense team at Maronick Law LLC can help you.
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443-351-6657Criminal Charges Related to Sexual Abuse in Educational Settings
In Maryland, sexual abuse allegations in schools can result in multiple criminal charges, varying based on the specific conduct, the victim's age, and the accused's position of authority. In addition to numerous sections of the state's Criminal Law article, Section 6-113.1 of the Education article of the Maryland Code establishes prohibited conduct such as grooming, sexual or romantic invitations, and other forms of sexual misconduct.
Sexual Abuse of a Minor
When an educator or school employee engages in sexual activity with a student under 18, they can be charged with sexual abuse of a minor. This charge, established under Section 3-602 of the Criminal Law article of the Maryland Code, specifically addresses the violation of trust and authority, and it applies regardless of whether the student consented, as the position of authority negates consent.
Sexual Offense in the Third or Fourth Degree
Sexual offense charges in the third and fourth degree apply to sexual contact between school employees and students, even if the student is over 16, under Section 3-307 and Section 3-308 of the Criminal Law article of the Maryland Code.
The law specifically criminalizes sexual contact between students and full-time permanent school employees, part-time permanent school employees, temporary school employees, hourly school employees, and contracted school employees.
Second-Degree Assault
Inappropriate touching or sexual contact may be charged as second-degree assault, even if it doesn't rise to the level of other sexual offenses. This charge, established under Section 3-203 of the Criminal Law article of the Maryland Code, often applies to cases involving unwanted touching over clothing or brief inappropriate contact.
Child Pornography Charges
If an educator solicits, creates, possesses, or distributes explicit images of students under 18, they can face child pornography charges. Under Section 11-208.1 of the Criminal Law article of the Maryland Code, child pornography charges can apply even if the student voluntarily shared the images and can result in mandatory minimum sentences.
Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor
Less severe but still serious conduct might be charged as contributing to the delinquency of a minor, a violation of Section 3-8A-30 of the Courts and Judicial Proceedings article of the Maryland Code, particularly in cases involving inappropriate communications or relationships that don't include physical contact.
Sexual abuse charges in educational settings often involve multiple overlapping criminal statutes, with severe penalties reflecting the breach of trust involved. These cases frequently trigger both criminal charges and administrative proceedings that can affect professional licensing and future employment opportunities.
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Thomas and Kevin represented my son in a drug possession case which could have severely impacted his life. He was a senior in college with the prospects of graduation and is finding a future employer. Thanks to Thomas and Kevin, no charges will appear on his record. We are very thankful for their advice and representation.
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Mr. Maronick got me the best possible outcome with the charges I had. Highly recommend.
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How Our Maryland Sexual Abuse in School Lawyers Can Help
At Maronick Law, we understand that allegations of sexual abuse in educational settings threaten both your freedom and your career. Our Maryland sexual abuse in school lawyers handle both the criminal charges and professional consequences of these cases. Our defense strategy includes:
- Handling both criminal defense and administrative proceedings
- Protecting your teaching license and professional credentials
- Challenging witness credibility and evidence
- Examining digital evidence and communications
- Coordinating with school administration and unions
- Managing Title IX investigations and hearings
- Fighting to preserve your career in education
- Protecting against false or exaggerated allegations
- Investigating student motivations and relationships
- Ensuring compliance with mandatory reporting requirements
- Navigating employment consequences and appeals
- Building strong defenses against criminal charges
We understand the devastating impact these allegations can have on educators and school employees. Our attorneys work diligently to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome while maintaining your professional standing whenever possible.
Get Legal Help From Maryland Sexual Abuse in School Lawyers
If you're an educator or school employee facing sexual abuse allegations, contact Maronick Law LLC immediately for a confidential consultation. Our Maryland sexual abuse in school lawyers understand the complex interplay between criminal charges and administrative proceedings that can threaten both your freedom and your career. We know how to challenge evidence, protect your teaching credentials, and handle both the criminal and professional aspects of your case.
Time is critical—the sooner you have experienced counsel protecting your rights, the better positioned you'll be to defend against these serious allegations. Call us for a free consultation, or contact us online to schedule an immediate case evaluation. Let our experienced attorneys fight to protect your rights, reputation, and professional future.