Harford 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 Harford County is a severe felony under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-315, carrying a potential 30-year prison sentence. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these complex allegations, focusing on the specific legal definitions and evidence required for conviction.
Maryland Law on Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child
In Maryland, the crime of continuing course of conduct with a child is defined by statute. It involves three or more acts of sexual abuse against a minor under the age of 14, committed over a period of 90 days or more. This charge is distinct from a single incident and is prosecuted aggressively as a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Harford County Circuit Court | Maryland General Assembly.
The firm was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. This background provides insight into how the state builds these cases, which often rely heavily on the testimony of the alleged victim and circumstantial evidence.
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the specific law is essential. You can review the official Maryland statute on Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-315 (official Maryland General Assembly site). For local court procedures, visit the Harford County Circuit Court website.
Local Defense Strategy in Harford County
Defending against a continuing course of conduct charge requires challenging the prosecution’s timeline, the credibility of the evidence, and the specific details of each alleged act. In Harford County, these cases are heard in Circuit Court, where procedures are formal and the stakes are highest.
- Case Assessment: Immediately secure all discovery from the prosecution to review every allegation and piece of evidence.
- Timeline Analysis: Scrutinize the alleged 90-day period for inconsistencies, alibis, or lack of opportunity.
- Evidence Challenge: File motions to suppress any improperly obtained statements or evidence.
- experienced Consultation: Engage with medical or psychological experts to contest the nature of the allegations.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea agreement is not in your interest, prepare a rigorous defense for trial focusing on reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In Harford County, a conviction for continuing course of conduct with a child carries a mandatory minimum sentence and requires lifetime sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child | Felony | Up to 30 years; mandatory minimum may apply | Court discretion | N/A | Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration; possible supervised probation for life |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Serious Criminal Allegations
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a former prosecutor’s perspective to building a defense. We understand that charges of this nature are emotionally charged and require a methodical, evidence-based response to protect your rights and future.
Building a Defense in Your Case
We approach each case by dissecting the state’s evidence. A common defense involves attacking the “continuing course” element by showing the alleged acts did not occur over the required 90-day period or that the evidence for three distinct acts is insufficient. The goal is to create reasonable doubt for each element the state must prove.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Finding a Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child Lawyer Near Me Harford County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our firm is accessible to clients throughout Harford County, including communities near Bel Air, Aberdeen, and Havre de Grace. If you are searching for a continuing course of conduct with a child lawyer near me Harford County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations to begin discussing your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly does “continuing course of conduct” mean in Maryland?
It means three or more acts of sexual abuse against the same victim, who is under 14, occurring over a period of at least 90 days. It is a separate, more serious charge than a single incident.
Is this charge a felony?
Yes. A continuing course of conduct with a child is a felony in Maryland, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration upon conviction.
What are common defenses to this charge?
It depends. Defenses often challenge the timeline (breaking the 90-day requirement), the credibility or consistency of the accuser’s account, mistaken identity, or lack of corroborating evidence for the multiple alleged acts. Each case requires a unique strategy.
Can these charges be reduced or dropped?
It depends on the evidence. Prosecutors may offer a plea to a lesser charge if the evidence for the “continuing course” element is weak. A skilled attorney can negotiate for reductions or file motions that may lead to charges being dismissed.
Why do I need a lawyer experienced in these specific charges?
These cases are highly technical, requiring an attorney who understands how to attack the state’s proof of multiple acts over a specific timeframe. An attorney familiar with the local Harford County court and prosecution tactics is essential.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If you want to see how a Harford County case fits into the wider process, our page on continuing course of conduct with a child lawyer Maryland covers it from start to finish.