Upper Marlboro Rape Lawyer

An arrest or even an accusation that you committed rape can ravage your life, gravely affecting every aspect. Anyone who state authorities suspect having sexual intercourse with another person without their consent or having sex with someone unable to give consent could face rape charges.

The severity of the charges will depend on the specific circumstances. An arrest for rape or other sex-related crimes is an overwhelming and challenging time. Please remember that seeking defense is within your legal rights, and you are innocent until the state proves otherwise. Schedule an appointment with a skilled Upper Marlboro rape lawyer to review your case and questions. A dedicated sex crimes attorney at The Law Office of Vernon Brownlee could provide the defense you need in court.

First and Second-Degree Rape Charges

The potential charges and punishment for a sex offense depend on the reason for arrest and the case’s unique circumstances. According to Maryland Criminal Law Code Annotated § 3-303, first-degree rape charges entail the state alleging the defendant used force to have sexual intercourse with another, regardless of the gender of either party.

The prosecutor reserves classifying charges under this category for the most severe and violent actions, such as strangulation or disfigurement while carrying out the rape. Someone may also face first-degree rape charges when the offense occurs in the commission of committing a separate felony offense, such as burglary or kidnapping.

Second-degree rape charges are less severe than the first but still a violent sexual offense with lasting repercussions. These cases involve having vaginal intercourse with a female without her consent. However, little to no violence is used to complete the action. Examples include statutory rape, sex with a mentally impaired person, or date rape. An Upper Marlboro attorney could fight for an accused person, no matter what kind of rape charge they face.

Attempted Rape

Attempted rape occurs when an individual attempts to carry out a first or second-degree rape but cannot complete the action. Even so, the offenses and potential sentencing are severe, and someone could spend up to 20 years in prison for a second-degree attempted rape conviction and up to life imprisonment for first-degree.

Sex Offender Registry

A conviction for rape or other sexual offenses typically requires the accused to register with the Maryland state sex offender registry. There are three potential tiers, with tier three being the most restrictive and requiring registration for 25 years.

Defense Strategies After a Sexual Assault Accusation

A practiced sexual assault defense lawyer in Upper Marlboro could answer specific questions and review strategies to determine the most effective defense based on the case details. However, some of the potential defense strategies in rape charge cases include:

• False accusations for revenge or other purposes
• Mistaken identity
• The individual facing charges lacked intent because of a mental defect
• Lack of evidence that the person did not consent to the sexual intercourse

Thorough investigation and careful planning are the most effective ways to build a powerful defense strategy and reach the best potential outcome to minimize penalties and lasting effects.

Schedule a Meeting With a Knowledgeable Upper Marlboro Rape Attorney

After a sexual assault allegation, begin planning to fight for your rights and future regardless of the specific circumstances or alleged evidence against you. Sadly, the potential outcome can often cause so much fear and anxiety that many attempt to avoid the problem until it is too late.

Failing to take quick action could have a severe impact and lasting consequences. A diligent Upper Marlboro rape lawyer could provide practical and reliable legal advice and aggressively fight for your rights and a favorable outcome. Call The Law Office of Vernon Brownlee today. The more time you have to prepare, the better your chance of a favorable outcome.