In Howard County, statutory rape carries serious penalties under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Howard County from our firm can explain your options. Contact us 24/7.
What Is Statutory Rape Under Maryland Law?
Maryland 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 21 or older and engages in vaginal intercourse with a minor under 16 commits a felony. The law focuses on the age of the victim, not force or consent. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Howard County understands these strict liability elements.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
For the official Maryland statutory code, see Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-307 (official Maryland General Assembly). For court information, visit the District Court of MD for Howard County website.
Insider Procedural Edge: How Statutory Rape Cases Move Through Howard County Courts
Howard County District Court handles initial appearances for felony statutory rape cases. The case then moves to Howard County Circuit Court for jury trials. The State’s Attorney for Howard County prosecutes these cases aggressively.
Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is rarely available for statutory rape due to the serious nature of the charge. Nolle Prosequi (prosecutor drops charges) is possible if evidence is weak.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail.
- Bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained.
- Preliminary hearing in District Court within 30 days if detained without indictment.
- Indictment by grand jury for felony charges.
- Arraignment in Howard County Circuit Court.
- Trial or plea negotiations before a Circuit Court judge or jury.
In Howard County, statutory rape carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison and a $15,000 fine under Maryland law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statutory Rape (victim under 16, defendant 21+) | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $15,000 | None specific | Sex offender registration; supervised release |
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. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating deep legal knowledge. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State’s Attorney builds cases.
Case Results
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.
Our Howard County Location
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Howard County courts, accessible via I-95, Route 29, and Route 32.
Looking for a Statutory Rape Lawyer Howard County near you? We serve Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel (partial).
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Statutory Rape in Howard County
Can a statutory rape charge be dismissed in Howard County?
Yes. A statutory rape charge can be dismissed if the evidence is weak, the alleged victim recants, or there are procedural errors. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Howard County can file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case.
What is the age of consent in Maryland?
16 years old. Sexual activity with a person under 16 is illegal. Exceptions exist for close-in-age relationships (within 4 years) if the younger person is 14 or 15.
Do I need a lawyer for a statutory rape charge in Howard County?
Yes. Statutory rape is a felony carrying up to 25 years in prison. An attorney at District Court of MD for Howard County can negotiate reduced charges or dismissal. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between statutory rape and rape in Maryland?
Rape requires force or lack of consent. Statutory rape does not — it is based solely on the age of the victim. Both are serious felonies with different legal elements.
Can I get Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for statutory rape in Howard County?
It depends. PBJ is rarely available for statutory rape due to the serious nature of the charge. The judge has discretion. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Howard County can argue for alternative dispositions.
Related Resources
- Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Montgomery County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- DUI Lawyer Howard County
- Divorce Lawyer Howard County
- Kristen Fisher — Former Prosecutor
- Our Maryland Office
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.
