Ellicott City and Annapolis Sex Crime Defense Attorney

Handling complex, sensitive charges in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, and throughout the state

Sex crimes are some of the most serious allegations you can face. Not only can they carry extensive penalties, but they also have long-lasting consequences for all aspects of your life. If convicted, you are forever branded as a sex offender, and, in most cases, you must register as one for the rest of your life. This could result in public embarrassment, job loss, and lifelong stigma for you and your family.

My name is Gill Andrew Cochran, and I provide my clients with the serious, tough defense that a sex crime allegation requires. At Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, my clients receive trustworthy representation from an experienced Annapolis criminal defense attorney during a sex crime case. For more than 18 years, I’ve built a name for myself for representing clients in the tough cases. I’ve built a reputation as a strong respected sex crimes lawyer due to my success in negotiating fair plea bargains and in obtaining numerous dismissals or acquittals in just cases.

What types of sex crime cases do your Annapolis defense attorneys handle?

The state of Maryland recognizes many types of sex crimes. As your criminal defense attorney, I am prepared to offer a strong defense for a variety of sex crimes and other related legal matters, including the following sex crimes which are set forth in the Maryland Criminal Code:

There are many other statutory sex crimes which involve minors, as well as specific statutes for sex crimes committed by people in a position of authority.

What are the consequences of a sex crime conviction in Maryland?

The consequences of a sex crime conviction depend on the details of the case. Some crimes may qualify as misdemeanors, but many sexual assault crimes qualify as felonies. In addition to jail time and fines, a sex crime conviction often means the defendant will have to register as a sex offender. On release from prison, a sex crime conviction can make it extremely difficult to find employment or housing.

Just a few examples of the penalties one might receive from a conviction include:

• Rape in the first degree. Anyone over 18 who is convicted of rape of the first degree will be sentenced to at least 25 years in prison. This is a mandatory minimum, meaning parole won’t be available for 25 years.
• Sexual offense in the third degree. This offense is a felony. The defendant can be sentenced to up to 10 years.
• This is also a felony offense. Sentences can range from one year to 10 years.

Additionally, sentences and punishments will increase if there is a prior criminal conviction.

How can a sex crime defense attorney protect my rights?

I get to know the unique details of each case. With that knowledge, combined with my familiarity with Maryland law, I have the ability to tailor a defense strategy that meets the needs of your specific case.

• I may present a defense of consent, where I argue that the accuser consented to the sexual contact.
• I may argue that there was no offense. For example, Maryland Criminal Code § 3-318 (Rape and spousal offense — Spousal defense) generally provides that being a spouse is defense to a rape or a sexual offense charge. However, this defense isn’t suitable for couples who are living apart, without cohabitation, for at least three months, and there is a written separation agreement.
• I may also fight for your innocence by questioning whether any contact actually occurred.
• I often seek to have physical evidence, such as DNA evidence, suppressed on the grounds that It constituted an illegal search in violation of your Fourth Amendment

In most sex crime cases, the key issue is credibility. Often, it is the victim’s word against the word of the defendant. Remember, in all criminal cases, there is a presumption of innocence. The government must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

In some instances, the best strategy is to seek the lightest possible sentence. Whatever the case, I aggressively fight for my clients, and I never back down from a courtroom battle if it’s in my client’s best interest.

Don’t take the consequences of a sex crime conviction lightly. In addition to sex offender registry requirements, a felony on your record can keep you getting a job, owning firearms, and voting. To ensure the protection of your rights, it’s important to speak with a knowledgeable Annapolis sex crimes defense lawyer before making a statement to any party, including the police. If law enforcement tries to speak with you, use your right to remain silent and ask to speak to your attorney right away.

Contact an experienced sex crimes defense attorney in Annapolis and Ellicott City

At Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, I have been providing the citizens of Howard and Anne Arundel Counties with trustworthy representation for more than 18 years. My services are accessible, and I have a track record of successful criminal defense results. If you have been charged with a sex crime, call my office today at 410.777.8103 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation to learn how I can assist you.

And remember: Keep Calm – and Call Drew.