Anne Arundel County Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A charge of continuing course of conduct with a child in Anne Arundel County is a severe felony under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-315, alleging a pattern of sexual abuse. Conviction carries decades in prison and lifetime sex offender registration. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding the Statute: Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-315
A continuing course of conduct with a child is defined under Maryland law as engaging in a series of acts over a period of 90 days or more that would constitute sexual abuse of a minor. This is not a single incident charge; it requires the prosecution to prove a pattern of behavior. The statute is designed to address prolonged abuse, making the penalties exceptionally severe upon conviction. The legal definition hinges on proving multiple instances, which also provides specific avenues for defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Anne Arundel County Circuit Court | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-315 (official Maryland General Assembly site). For Anne Arundel County court procedures, visit the Maryland Judiciary website.
Local Court Process and Defense Strategy in Anne Arundel County
These cases are prosecuted aggressively in Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. The prosecution must prove not just one act, but a minimum of three acts constituting sexual abuse over the specified time period. A key defense often involves challenging the sufficiency and consistency of the evidence for each alleged act, as the failure to prove the “continuing course” element can lead to dismissal or reduction of charges. An affordable continuing course of conduct with a child lawyer Anne Arundel County can analyze the timeline and evidence for these critical weaknesses.
- Initial Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea in Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will file motions to challenge evidence, including seeking to suppress statements or contest the admissibility of interview evidence.
- Discovery Review: The defense meticulously examines all police reports, forensic interviews, and any physical evidence for inconsistencies.
- Negotiation & Trial Preparation: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will engage in plea negotiations or prepare for a jury trial, focusing on breaking the “course of conduct” chain.
- Trial or Resolution: The case proceeds to trial where the state must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt, or a negotiated resolution is presented to the court.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In Anne Arundel County, a conviction for continuing course of conduct with a child carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison, with a maximum of life imprisonment, and requires lifetime registration as a Tier III sex offender.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child | Felony | 25 years to life | Up to $25,000 | N/A | Lifetime sex offender registration, no contact orders, supervised probation for life. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for This Charge
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team understands the high stakes of sex crime allegations in Maryland. We approach each case with a detailed, evidence-driven strategy, recognizing that a charge is not a conviction. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we commit fully to defending your rights and future against these life-altering allegations.
Our Approach to Your Case
We immediately work to secure your release if incarcerated and conduct a thorough investigation. We obtain all discovery, including police reports, interview recordings, and forensic reports. Our defense scrutinizes the prosecution’s ability to prove the required three-act minimum and the 90-day timeframe. We also explore alternative explanations and challenge the reliability of witness testimony. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with decades of experience, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child Lawyer Near Me Anne Arundel County
If you are searching for a continuing course of conduct with a child lawyer near me Anne Arundel County, our firm is accessible. Our Rockville location serves Anne Arundel County and is within driving distance of the Annapolis courthouse. We represent clients in communities throughout the county, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Pasadena, Severna Park, and Odenton.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly does “continuing course of conduct” mean in Maryland?
It means the state must prove at least three separate acts of sexual abuse against the same minor victim, and those acts must have occurred over a period of 90 days or more. It is a charge based on a pattern, not a single event.
Can this charge be reduced to a lesser offense?
It depends. While the charge carries severe mandatory penalties, an experienced lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction if there are weaknesses in the evidence for the “continuing course” element. Outcomes depend on the specific facts and evidence of your case.
What is the first thing I should do if I am investigated for this?
The first thing you must do is exercise your right to remain silent and immediately contact a lawyer. Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used to establish the pattern required for this charge.
Is lifetime sex offender registration mandatory?
Yes. A conviction for continuing course of conduct with a child under Md. Code § 3-315 requires lifetime registration as a Tier III sex offender in Maryland, with strict public notification requirements.
How can a lawyer defend against this charge?
A defense lawyer will attack the “course of conduct” by challenging the evidence for each alleged act, examining the timeline, questioning the victim’s credibility and interview process, and presenting alternative explanations. The goal is to create reasonable doubt about the pattern.
Related Pages: For other serious charges, see our pages on Maryland Sex Crimes Lawyer, Child Abuse Lawyer in Maryland, and Anne Arundel County Criminal Defense Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
The same rules apply outside Anne Arundel County, and our page on continuing course of conduct with a child charges across Maryland walks through each stage.