In Howard County, child sexual abuse charges carry severe penalties under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. A Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer Howard County from our firm provides the defense you need. Contact us 24/7.
Understanding Child Sexual Abuse Charges in Howard County
Maryland law defines child sexual abuse under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, covering acts including sexual abuse of a minor, child pornography possession, and sexual solicitation of a minor. These offenses carry severe penalties ranging from probation to life imprisonment depending on the specific charge and circumstances. The District Court of MD for Howard County handles initial appearances, while Howard County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
External Resources
For official Maryland statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. For court information, see the District Court of MD for Howard County.
Insider Procedural Edge: How We Handle Child Sexual Abuse Cases in Howard County
Howard County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. The State’s Attorney for Howard County prosecutes these cases aggressively. Our team understands local court procedures and works to protect your rights at every stage.
- Initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail conditions.
- Bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained.
- Arraignment where charges are formally presented.
- Pretrial motions and discovery phase.
- Plea negotiations or trial preparation.
- Trial in District Court (misdemeanor) or Circuit Court (felony).
In Howard County, child sexual abuse charges carry penalties including incarceration, fines, and sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual Abuse of a Minor | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $25,000 | N/A | Sex offender registration |
| Child Pornography Possession | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Sex offender registration |
| Sexual Solicitation of a Minor | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Sex offender registration |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Child Sexual Abuse Case in Howard County?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes firm-wide. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State builds its cases. We provide case-specific strategies for each client’s situation.
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, founder and managing attorney, who brings decades of experience in complex criminal defense matters.
Case Results
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. In Maryland sex crimes cases, our team has achieved outcomes including dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) and probation dispositions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Howard County Location
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Howard County courts, accessible via I-95, Route 29, Route 1, Route 32, and Route 175. We serve Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel (partial).
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Sexual Abuse Charges in Howard County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Howard County for child sexual abuse cases?
Yes, PBJ is available in Maryland for many offenses. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged after a child sexual abuse case in Howard County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ after 3 years. Some convictions may qualify under the Justice Reinvestment Act.
What happens after a child sexual abuse arrest in Howard County?
After arrest: initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, arraignment, then trial. Misdemeanors stay in District Court; felonies go to Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a child sexual abuse charge in Howard County?
Yes. Child sexual abuse charges carry severe penalties including potential life imprisonment and mandatory sex offender registration. An experienced attorney can negotiate PBJ, dismissal, or reduced charges.
How long does a child sexual abuse case take in Howard County?
District Court misdemeanor cases typically resolve in 30-90 days. Circuit Court felony cases can take 3-12 months. The Hicks rule requires felony jury trials within 180 days of first appearance.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.