Attempted Rape In The Second Degree Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Defense Options?
Attempted rape in the second degree in Maryland is a serious felony charge under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-304. A conviction can result in a lengthy prison sentence and mandatory sex offender registration. If you are facing these charges, you need an experienced attempted rape in the second degree lawyer Maryland from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Attempted Rape in the Second Degree in Maryland
Attempted rape in the second degree is defined under Maryland law as an attempt to engage in vaginal intercourse with another person by force, or the threat of force, without the person’s consent, and under circumstances not constituting first-degree rape. The attempt itself is a crime, meaning the prosecution does not need to prove that intercourse actually occurred, only that you took a substantial step toward committing the act with the required intent.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
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 a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious sex charges.
Official Maryland Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to the Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-304 on the Maryland General Assembly website. For court procedures and forms, visit the Maryland Courts official website.
Local Defense Strategy for Attempted Rape Charges
Defending against an attempted rape in the second degree charge requires a case-specific approach that challenges the prosecution’s evidence on intent and the alleged substantial step. Early intervention by a skilled sex crime attorney is critical to investigate the facts, interview witnesses, and secure evidence before it is lost.
- Immediate Case Review: Contact our firm immediately after an arrest or learning of an investigation to protect your rights.
- Evidence Preservation: Our team will act quickly to secure any physical evidence, surveillance footage, or digital communications relevant to the case.
- Witness Interviews: We will locate and interview all potential witnesses to build a complete picture of the events.
- Motion Practice: File pre-trial motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence or statements obtained improperly.
- Trial Preparation: If the case proceeds to trial, we prepare an aggressive defense strategy focused on creating reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for Attempted Rape in the Second Degree
In Maryland, attempted rape in the second degree is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison, with a potential mandatory minimum sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Registration | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attempted Rape in the Second Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Mandatory Sex Offender Registry | Probation, no-contact orders, loss of professional licenses, housing restrictions |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the state builds its cases. We use this insight to develop effective counter-strategies for our clients. We have a documented record of achieving dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea resolutions in sex crime cases.
Case Results in Maryland Sex Crime Defense
Our sex crime defense lawyers have secured positive results for clients. In Baltimore County, we defended a client charged with Possession of Child Pornography, resulting in a sentence of 5 years of incarceration with all time suspended and 5 years of supervised probation. In another Baltimore County case involving charges of Promoting/Distributing Child Pornography, we achieved a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal) for our client.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in complex case strategy, provides valuable oversight on intricate cases. His multi-state experience and systematic approach to defense are assets for any client facing severe allegations.
Contact a Maryland Attempted Rape Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Rockville location serves clients across Maryland. We are accessible for meetings by appointment only. If you are searching for a “sex crime attorney near me” in Maryland, we offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
FAQs: Attempted Rape in the Second Degree Charges in Maryland
What is the difference between attempted rape and completed rape in Maryland?
The key difference is whether the act was completed. For attempted rape, the prosecution must prove you took a substantial step toward committing rape with the intent to do so. You can be convicted of attempt even if no sexual intercourse occurred.
Can I go to jail for an attempted rape charge if the other person initially consented?
It depends. Consent can be withdrawn at any time. If the state can prove that you used force or threats to continue after consent was withdrawn, or that consent was invalid due to incapacity, you could still face charges. A sexual offense defense lawyer can analyze the specific facts.
What is a “substantial step” in an attempted rape case?
Maryland law requires more than just preparation. A “substantial step” is conduct that strongly corroborates the defendant’s criminal intent and moves beyond mere planning toward the commission of the crime. Examples could include physical actions directed at overcoming the victim’s resistance.
Is attempted rape in the second degree a registrable offense?
Yes. A conviction for attempted rape in the second degree in Maryland typically requires mandatory registration as a Tier III sex offender, which is for life with quarterly in-person verification.
Should I speak to the police if I’m under investigation for attempted rape?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with a sex charges lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you are innocent or trying to explain.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other serious allegations, our firm also provides defense for Sexual Offense in the First Degree and Rape in the First Degree charges.
Other Locations: Our attorneys also defend clients in Virginia and Washington, D.C.
Learn More: For an overview of our sex crime defense practice, visit our main criminal defense page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (301) 363-4040 for current guidance.
An attempted rape in the second degree charge is one part of a wider defense practice, and our page on sex crimes lawyer Maryland covers how these cases are handled from start to finish.