Chevy Chase, MD Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Experienced Lawyer Defending Clients Accused of Sex Crimes in Chevy Chase

Few criminal offenses are more damaging to one's reputation than sex crimes. In Maryland, a conviction of a sex crime can carry years in prison and collateral consequences in the form of placement on a sex offender registry. If you have been arrested on suspicion of committing a sex crime, you should reach out to a Chevy Chase sex crime defense attorney at the earliest opportunity.

At The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC., we represent residents of Chevy Chase who have been accused of criminal violations of a sexual nature. We know how high the stakes can be in these cases, and as such, we will put up a zealous defense on your behalf.

Rape Charges

The crime of rape is one of the most serious offenses you can be charged with in Maryland. Under state law, rape refers to non-consensual intercourse with another person. Depending on the severity of the act, the crime may be charged in either the first or second degree. Rape charges may also apply if you engage in sexual intercourse with someone who cannot consent due to a physical disability or mental helplessness.

Certain aggravating factors will lead to first-degree rape charges. These aggravating circumstances include:

• Committing rape with another or multiple assailants
• Committing rape during a burglary in the first, second, or third degree
• Threatening the victim with death or serious injury during an act of rape
• Inflicting serious injury during an act of rape
• Showing off or using a dangerous weapon during an act of rape

If you are convicted of rape in the first degree, you face a possible sentence of life in prison. Second-degree rape charges are substantially less severe, but it is still punishable by years in prison. At The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC., we can defend you against rape charges by questioning the credibility of the accuser's account or citing a lack of evidence. If the prosecution cannot prove the conduct was non-consensual, we may be able to argue for reduced or dismissed charges.

Sexual Assault Laws in Maryland

While rape refers specifically to non-consensual vaginal intercourse, "sexual assault" and "sexual offense" are used synonymously to describe other non-consensual sex acts. For example, groping a stranger on the bus could be charged as sexual assault.

The penalties for sexual offenses vary wildly. A fourth-degree sexual offense may only carry up to a year in prison, while a first-degree sexual offense might carry a life sentence. Sexual offenses can be upgraded in degrees by similar aggravating factors as rape. Moreover, violations involving underaged victims may entail strict minimum sentences.

Possession of Child Pornography

If you are accused of possessing an obscene visual representation of a child under 16 years old, you could face criminal charges under the state's child pornography laws. To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove that you knowingly possessed and intentionally retained the photograph, film, or other illicit material. A first conviction of this crime is a misdemeanor, but you will also be forced to register as a sex offender for 15 years.

At The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC., we can explore different defense strategies against a possession charge. For instance, we may argue that you were not aware of the illegal material in your possession. We could also assert an affirmative defense before your court date if you took reasonable steps to destroy or report the material to the authorities.

Contact a Chevy Chase, Maryland Sex Crime Defense Attorney

Sex crimes should not be taken lightly. At The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC., our Chevy Chase sex crime defense lawyer can advise you of how to respond to the allegations against you, advocating for your rights. Call our offices at 301-589-9500 or contact us online to set up a free consultation today.