A Trustworthy Defense from a Knowledgeable Annapolis Statutory Rape Defense Attorney
Defending clients against serious rape charges in Maryland
Rape is one of the most serious criminal charges you can face. Statutory rape charges are particularly troublesome because the accused is often a person who acted with no criminal malice or even knowledge of their involvement in criminal activity.
My name is Gill Andrew Cochran, and I understand the various situations that can lead to unexpected statutory rape charges. At Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, I provide clients with high-quality representation from an experienced Annapolis statutory rape defense attorney.
Understanding statutory rape
Statutory rape is defined as sexual contact between an adult and a minor under the age of statutory consent, which is 16 years old within the state of Maryland. The state code does not include a specific law prohibiting “statutory rape.” However, the state’s sexual assault laws include numerous prohibitions against sexual relationships with underage individuals.
The potential statutory rape charges are as follows:
- Second-degree sexual offense. This is defined as a sexual act occurring between a minor under the age of 14 and a person at least four years older. The older party may face charges of second-degree sexual offense. The potential penalty for this felony is up to 20 years in prison.
- Third-degree sexual offense. This is a sexual act that takes place between a person aged 14 or 15 and an adult over the age of 21 years old. The adult party may face charges of third-degree sexual offense. The potential penalty is up to 10 years in prison.
- Second-degree rape. This is defined as vaginal intercourse that takes place between a person under age 14 and a person at least four years older. The older party may face charges of second-degree rape, punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
The severity of these felonies requires representation from a knowledgeable Maryland statutory rape attorney.
Diligently fighting for Maryland statutory rape defendants
Individuals are often caught off guard by statutory rape accusations. This is because these sexual relationships commonly occur with individuals who are believed to be over the age of consent, when in reality they are not. For example, a man meets a female in an adult club, where entry is only for people who are at least 21 years old. Believing her to be an adult, he has sexual relations with her. The next day, he is informed that the female was a 15-year-old runaway. The man is arrested and charged with third-degree sexual offense.
An aggressive Annapolis criminal defense lawyer understands that the circumstances surrounding each case are different. That is why I work with you to review the accusations and determine an effective strategy outcome for your individual case.
Providing a compassionate, but assertive, defense to Annapolis statutory rape charges
At Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, I work hard to pursue the best possible outcome for clients facing sexual offense charges. If you are facing charges related to statutory rape, call my office today at 410-271-1892 or complete my contact form to schedule a confidential appointment with an experienced lawyer.
And remember: Keep Calm – and Call Drew.
