In Howard County, online solicitation of a minor is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Former prosecutors on staff provide strong defense at District Court of MD for Howard County.

Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer Howard County — What Are Your Defense Options?

Understanding Online Solicitation of a Minor Charges in Howard County

Maryland law prohibits using a computer or electronic device to solicit a minor for sexual activity. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-324, it is a felony to knowingly solicit a minor (or someone believed to be a minor) for sexual contact. This offense applies regardless of whether the minor was actually a law enforcement officer posing as a minor. Conviction carries severe penalties including mandatory sex offender registration.

Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly

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Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Howard County Court

Howard County District Court handles initial appearances for online solicitation cases. The State’s Attorney for Howard County prosecutes these cases aggressively.

Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is rarely available for sex offenses. Nolle Prosequi (charges dropped) is possible with strong defense.

Contact an attorney immediately after arrest or investigation.
Do not speak to law enforcement without counsel present.
Attend initial appearance at District Court of MD for Howard County (3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043).
File pretrial motions to challenge evidence and search warrants.
Negotiate with the State’s Attorney for reduced charges or dismissal.
Prepare for trial if no acceptable plea offer is made.

In Howard County, online solicitation of a minor carries felony penalties including prison time, fines, and mandatory sex offender registration.

Offense	Classification	Incarceration	Fine	License Impact	Additional Consequences
Online Solicitation of a Minor (first offense)	Felony	Up to 10 years	Up to $25,000	None directly	Mandatory sex offender registration; supervised probation
Online Solicitation of a Minor (subsequent offense)	Felony	Up to 20 years	Up to $50,000	None directly	Mandatory sex offender registration; lifetime supervision possible

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Defense

Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”

Kristen M. Fisher, a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland, brings firsthand prosecutorial experience to your defense. She understands how the State’s Attorney for Howard County builds cases and can identify weaknesses in their evidence.

Kristen M. Fisher — Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)

Bar Admissions: Maryland; Virginia

Former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland — prosecuted diverse criminal cases in both District and Circuit Courts. Joined Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 2010. 75% of practice dedicated to litigation.

Case Results

SRIS actively practices in Howard County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Local Representation for Howard County

Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Howard County courts. We are accessible via I-95, Route 29, Route 1, Route 32, and Route 175.

We serve clients throughout Howard County including Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel (partial).

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 Online Solicitation of a Minor in Howard County

What is the penalty for online solicitation of a minor in Howard County?

Yes, it is a felony carrying up to 10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. The exact penalty depends on prior record and case specifics.

Can I get Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for online solicitation in Howard County?

No, PBJ is rarely available for sex offenses in Maryland. The State’s Attorney for Howard County typically opposes PBJ for online solicitation cases involving minors.

Do I need a lawyer for online solicitation charges in Howard County?

Yes, absolutely. These are felony charges with severe consequences including prison time and lifetime sex offender registration. An experienced attorney is essential.

What is the difference between solicitation and attempt in Maryland?

It depends. Solicitation involves asking or encouraging a minor to engage in sexual activity. Attempt requires taking a substantial step toward the actual act. Both are felonies.

Can online solicitation charges be expunged in Howard County?

No, convictions for online solicitation of a minor are not eligible for expungement under Maryland law. Acquittals or dismissals may be eligible after a waiting period.

How long does an online solicitation case take in Howard County?

It depends. District Court cases typically resolve in 30-90 days. Circuit Court felony cases can take 3-12 months. The Hicks rule (180-day speedy trial) applies to felony jury trials.

Related Legal Resources

Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.