Towson Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Towson's Premier Defense Attorney for Sex Crimes

In the digital age, internet technology has led to new categories of criminal offenses. Information shared online can affect people in many ways, and law enforcement officials are taking steps to crack down on illegal behavior that could harm others. Sex crimes committed using computers and the internet are taken especially seriously. People who are accused of sharing intimate materials without the permission of the people depicted or those who are accused of possessing or distributing child pornography can face a variety of penalties. In these situations, legal representation is crucial.

Baltimore Legal Services provides experienced legal help to people who have been accused of sex crimes and other offenses. With our understanding of the laws that apply in cases involving online offenses and other crimes of a sexual nature, we can develop successful defense strategies. We understand the ways these accusations can affect a person, and we are dedicated to helping our clients protect their reputations while avoiding convictions that could require them to register as sex offenders or result in other serious penalties. We fight to protect the rights of criminal defendants and minimize the penalties that may affect their lives and their freedom.

Revenge Pornography

Smartphones and other technologies have made it very easy to capture and share sexually explicit images and videos. Unfortunately, pictures or videos that were originally meant to be private may be released online, causing embarrassment and emotional trauma and leading to repercussions in the personal and professional lives of those depicted. The state of Maryland has addressed this issue by criminalizing revenge pornography, which is also referred to as "non-consensual pornography." Distributing explicit images or videos of a person without their consent may lead to criminal charges if it is done with the intent to cause harm to a person or to threaten or intimidate them.

If a person had a reasonable expectation that these materials would remain private, someone who posted sexually explicit images or videos on a website or social network or otherwise distributed them to others may face criminal charges. This is a misdemeanor offense, and a conviction may result in a prison sentence of up to two years, as well as a maximum fine of $5,000.

Child Pornography

Pornographic materials depicting minors are treated very seriously by law enforcement. The creation of these materials can cause serious harm to the children involved, and the distribution of child pornography may encourage others to engage in sex crimes against children. Maryland law prohibits the possession, distribution, or production of images or videos that depict people under the age of 16 engaging in sexual conduct. Any depictions of obscene acts involving children, including sexual intercourse, sexual contact, sadomasochistic abuse, or nudity, can result in serious criminal charges.

A person may be charged with possession of child pornography if they access, intentionally view, or retain photographs, videos, films, digital images, or other visual representations of actual children or computer-generated images that are indistinguishable from real children. Downloading images or videos to a computer, possessing physical copies of photos, or accessing and viewing these materials can result in criminal charges for possession of child pornography. While a first offense is a misdemeanor that may result in up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500, a second offense is a felony that carries a maximum sentence of 10 years and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.

A person who is accused of producing or distributing child pornography will face more serious charges. Production of child pornography may include creating photos or videos of children engaging in sexual conduct or otherwise causing or inducing a child to be involved in these activities. Distribution of child pornography may involve giving photos to others, distributing images or videos online, or selling, exchanging, or promoting these materials. Production or distribution of child pornography is a felony offense. A first conviction can lead to a prison sentence of up to 10 years and/or a maximum fine of $50,000. Any subsequent violations may result in sentences of up to 20 years, fines of up to $50,000, or both.

Contact Our Towson, Maryland Internet Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

At Baltimore Legal Services, we work to defend the rights of those who have been accused of sex crimes involving computers or the internet. We have a comprehensive understanding of Maryland law, and we are committed to upholding justice and ensuring that our clients are treated fairly. We can take steps to address sensitive crimes and protect our clients' reputations while helping them build successful defense strategies to avoid convictions. To discuss your case and explore your legal options, contact us and set up a free consultation by calling 858-523-8423.