Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Defense Options?
A charge of Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree under Maryland law is a severe felony with a mandatory minimum 25-year prison sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a focused defense against these charges. Our criminal attorney understands the high stakes and complex evidence involved. We examine every detail of the prosecution’s case to protect your rights and future.
Understanding the Statute: Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree
In Maryland, the crime of Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree is defined under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-318. This statute addresses a pattern of sexual abuse against a child under the age of 14 by a person in a position of authority, such as a parent, household member, or someone with supervisory responsibility. The law requires proof of multiple acts of sexual abuse over a period of at least 90 days. This is distinct from a single incident charge and carries the most severe penalties in the state’s sex crime statutes.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full legal text, refer to the official Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-318 on the Maryland General Assembly website. For court procedures and forms, visit the Maryland Courts website.
Defense Strategy and Court Process for a Course Of Sexual Conduct Charge
A defense against a Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree charge requires a detailed, multi-faceted approach. The prosecution must prove a sustained pattern of abuse, which often relies heavily on the child’s testimony and forensic interview evidence. A defense lawyer will scrutinize the timeline, the methods of disclosure, and any potential for outside influence or suggestion. In Baltimore City Circuit Court and other Maryland jurisdictions, these cases are prosecuted aggressively. The defense must challenge the credibility of the evidence and the consistency of the allegations from the outset.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Immediately after arrest or charge, a defense lawyer will review all known allegations and police reports to understand the prosecution’s initial theory.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: The defense team will conduct an independent investigation, which may include reviewing medical records, interviewing potential witnesses, and consulting with forensic experts to evaluate interview techniques used with the child.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your criminal court lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence obtained improperly, challenge the admissibility of certain statements, or seek to dismiss charges if the state’s evidence is legally insufficient to prove a “course of conduct.”
- Plea Negotiations or Trial Preparation: Based on the strength of the evidence, your attorney will engage in strategic negotiations with the State’s Attorney. If no acceptable plea is offered, the case proceeds to a jury trial where the defense will present its case to create reasonable doubt.
Penalties for Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree
In Maryland, a conviction for Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison, with a maximum of life imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Registration | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree | Felony | 25 years to Life (mandatory min.) | Court Discretion | Mandatory Tier III Sex Offender (Lifetime) | Supervised probation for life, no contact with victim, possible loss of parental rights, professional license revocation. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Maryland Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the immense pressure and complexity of defending against a Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree charge. Our approach is direct and evidence-focused. We work to protect your rights at every stage, from the initial investigation through trial.
Case Results in Sex Crime Defense
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results in challenging sex crime cases across Maryland. For example, in Baltimore County, we secured a result where a client facing a child pornography possession charge received a sentence of 5 years of incarceration with all time suspended, plus 5 years of supervised probation. In another case, also in Baltimore County, we achieved a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal) for a client charged with promoting/distributing child pornography.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
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.
Our Rockville location serves clients across Maryland, including those facing charges in Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County, and Montgomery County. We are accessible for clients from neighborhoods throughout the region. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. If you need a Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree lawyer near Maryland, contact us immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree)
What is the difference between this charge and other sex crimes against children?
It depends. A Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree charge requires proof of multiple acts over at least 90 days by someone in a position of authority. A single incident of abuse would be charged under a different statute, like sexual abuse of a minor, which may carry different penalties.
Can these charges be dropped or reduced?
Yes. While these are serious charges, a skilled criminal charges defense can lead to reductions or dismissals. This may happen if the defense uncovers flaws in the investigation, challenges the child’s testimony, or presents evidence that contradicts the alleged pattern of conduct.
What is the first thing I should do if I am investigated for this crime?
Do not speak to law enforcement or child protective services without an attorney present. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a criminal defense lawyer. Any statement you make can be used against you, and the legal definitions in these cases are highly technical.
Is parole possible with a 25-year mandatory minimum sentence?
In Maryland, a mandatory minimum sentence typically means you must serve that full amount of time before becoming eligible for parole. For a 25-year mandatory minimum, you would need to serve at least 25 years in prison before the parole commission could consider your release.
How can a defense lawyer help with a Course Of Sexual Conduct case?
A defense lawyer is critical. They will investigate the allegations, hire experts to review forensic interview methods, file motions to protect your rights, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare a strong trial defense. The goal is to challenge the state’s ability to prove every required element of this complex charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
If you are facing an allegation of Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree in Maryland, the time to act is now. The strategies used in the early stages of a case can significantly impact its final outcome. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and legal options.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (301) 363-4040 for current guidance.
A course of sexual conduct against a child in the first 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.