In Maryland, statutory rape under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-307 carries up to 25 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Maryland from SRIS, P.C. can build your defense. Consultation by appointment.
Maryland Statutory Rape Laws — What You Need to Know
Maryland law defines statutory rape as sexual intercourse with a person under the age of consent (16 years old). Under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-307, a person who is at least four years older than the minor can face charges. The law distinguishes between sexual offenses in the fourth degree (misdemeanor) and second degree (felony) based on the age difference and circumstances. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Maryland understands these distinctions and can explain how they apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
For the official statutory language, review Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-307 (official Maryland General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Maryland Judiciary website.
Insider Procedural Edge — How We Handle Statutory Rape Cases in Maryland
In Maryland, statutory rape cases often hinge on the age difference between the parties. Prosecutors in Montgomery County and across the state look for a four-year or greater age gap to prove the offense.
Our team, led by former prosecutors, knows how the State’s Attorney builds these cases. We examine every detail — from the alleged date of the offense to the minor’s age at the time.
- Step 1: Contact a Statutory Rape Lawyer Maryland immediately. Do not speak to law enforcement without counsel.
- Step 2: Your attorney will request discovery from the State’s Attorney, including the alleged victim’s age and any communications.
- Step 3: File a motion to suppress any statements made without Miranda warnings or under duress.
- Step 4: Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction to a lesser charge or a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) disposition.
- Step 5: If no plea is reached, prepare for trial in the District Court (misdemeanor) or Circuit Court (felony).
- Step 6: At trial, challenge the evidence, including the age of the alleged victim and the nature of the contact.
In Maryland, statutory rape carries severe penalties — from 1 year in jail to 25 years in prison, depending on the degree of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual Offense Fourth Degree (under 16, 4+ years older) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | None | Sex offender registration (10 years) |
| Sexual Offense Second Degree (under 16, 4+ years older, force/threat) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Sex offender registration (life) |
| Rape Second Degree (under 16, 4+ years older, intercourse) | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Sex offender registration (life) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Statutory Rape Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our tagline — “Advocacy Without Borders” — reflects our commitment to clients facing serious charges like statutory rape.
Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State’s Attorney builds these cases. We use that insight to build a strong defense for you.
Case Results in Statutory Rape and Sex Crimes
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved significant results in sex crimes cases across Maryland. In Baltimore County, we secured a Nolle Prosequi (charges dropped) for a client charged with Child Pornography Promote/Distribute under Md. Code CR.11.207.(a)(4). In another Baltimore case, a client facing Possess Child Pornography under Md. Code CR.11.208 received 5 years incarceration with ALL suspended and 5 years supervised probation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Statutory Rape Lawyer Near Montgomery County, Maryland
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Montgomery County courts, accessible via I-270, I-495, and Route 355 (Rockville Pike).
Looking for a Statutory Rape Lawyer Maryland near you? We serve Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase.
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 in Maryland
Can I be charged with statutory rape if the minor lied about their age?
Yes. Maryland law does not allow a mistake of age defense for statutory rape. You are strictly liable if the victim is under 16 and you are at least four years older.
What is the minimum sentence for statutory rape in Maryland?
It depends. For a fourth-degree sexual offense (misdemeanor), the minimum is no jail time. For second-degree rape (felony), the minimum is typically 5 years in prison.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time statutory rape charge in Maryland?
Yes. Even a first-time charge carries potential prison time and sex offender registration. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Maryland can negotiate a PBJ or dismissal.
Can statutory rape charges be dropped in Maryland?
Yes. The State’s Attorney can enter a Nolle Prosequi (drop charges) or place the case on the Stet docket. An attorney can present evidence to support dismissal.
What is the age of consent in Maryland?
16 years old. Anyone under 16 cannot legally consent to sexual activity. A person at least four years older can face statutory rape charges.
How long do I have to register as a sex offender for statutory rape in Maryland?
It depends. For a fourth-degree sexual offense, registration is 10 years. For second-degree rape or second-degree sexual offense, registration is for life.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Learn more about our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer services. For clients in neighboring areas, see our Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer or Howard County Criminal Defense Lawyer. For related services in Maryland, visit our DUI/DWI Lawyer Montgomery County page.