Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Facing statutory rape charges in Wicomico County carries severe penalties under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build your defense. Our firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Contact us 24/7.
Statutory Rape Definition Under Maryland Law
Maryland law defines statutory rape as sexual intercourse with a person under the age of consent (16 years old). The offense is classified under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, § 3-307. Unlike forcible rape, consent is not a defense because the law presumes a minor cannot legally consent. Penalties depend on the age difference between the defendant and the alleged victim. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County can explain how these laws apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: 2026-04 | District Court of MD for Wicomico County | Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-307 (official Maryland General Assembly)
Official Resources
Insider Procedural Edge: Wicomico County Court Process
In Wicomico County, statutory rape cases begin in the District Court for initial appearances but felony charges proceed to the Circuit Court for trial. The State’s Attorney for Wicomico County prosecutes these cases aggressively. Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is rarely available for sex offenses, making early defense strategy critical.
- Step 1: Initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail conditions.
- Step 2: Bail review hearing within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Step 3: Preliminary hearing within 30 days if you are held without indictment.
- Step 4: Arraignment in Circuit Court for felony charges.
- Step 5: Discovery, motions, and plea negotiations or trial.
- Step 6: Sentencing if convicted, or expungement if charges are dismissed.
In Wicomico County, statutory rape carries penalties ranging from misdemeanor to felony depending on the age of the parties.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual intercourse with person under 14 (defendant 4+ years older) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $15,000 | None specific | Sex offender registration required |
| Sexual intercourse with person 14-15 (defendant 4+ years older) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $15,000 | None specific | Sex offender registration required |
| Sexual intercourse with person under 14 (defendant less than 4 years older) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $500 | None specific | Sex offender registration may apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results
SRIS actively practices in Wicomico County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our sex crimes team has secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) and probationary dispositions in similar cases across Maryland.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Presence in Wicomico County
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Wicomico County courts, accessible via Route 50, Route 13, and Route 349. We represent clients throughout Salisbury, Fruitland, Delmar, Mardela Springs, Sharptown, and Pittsville.
Looking for a Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County near you? We serve the entire Eastern Shore region.
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 Statutory Rape Charges in Wicomico County
Can I get Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for statutory rape in Wicomico County?
No. PBJ is generally not available for sex offenses in Maryland, including statutory rape. The court at District Court of MD for Wicomico County typically requires a conviction or dismissal. Contact a Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County to discuss alternative dispositions.
Is consent a defense to statutory rape in Maryland?
No. Consent is not a legal defense to statutory rape in Maryland. The law assumes a person under 16 cannot legally consent to sexual intercourse. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County can explain other potential defenses based on your specific facts.
What is the age of consent in Maryland?
16 years old. Sexual intercourse with someone under 16 is statutory rape, with penalties varying based on the age difference. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County can assess how the age gap affects your charges under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-307.
How long do I have to register as a sex offender after a statutory rape conviction?
It depends. Registration requirements vary by offense classification. Felony statutory rape convictions typically require lifetime registration. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County can explain the specific registration period for your case.
Can statutory rape charges be expunged in Wicomico County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, and Stet dispositions. Convictions for statutory rape generally cannot be expunged. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County can evaluate your eligibility under the Justice Reinvestment Act.
What happens at my first court appearance in Wicomico County?
At your initial appearance, a District Court commissioner sets bail conditions. If detained, you have a bail review hearing within 24 hours. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Wicomico County should be present to argue for reasonable bail or release conditions.
Related Resources
Last verified: 2026-04. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.