A charge of Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-315 is a serious felony in Maryland. This charge involves a continuing pattern of abuse and carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms and mandatory sex offender registration. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding the Charge: Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree
In Maryland, the crime of Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree is defined under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-315. The statute makes it illegal to engage in a continuing course of conduct, over a period of 90 days or more, which includes three or more acts that would constitute violations of certain sexual offense laws, with a victim under the age of 18. This is distinct from a single incident charge; it alleges a sustained pattern of abuse.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings a deep understanding of how prosecutors build these pattern-based cases. This charge is often prosecuted aggressively, and the evidence can be complex, spanning long periods and involving multiple alleged incidents.
Official Legal Resources
- Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-315 (Official Maryland General Assembly Statute)
- Maryland Judiciary Website (Official Court Information)
Defense Strategy and Court Process for This Charge
Defending against a Course Of Sexual Conduct charge requires challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove a continuing pattern beyond a reasonable doubt. Common defense angles include attacking the credibility and consistency of the allegations over time, demonstrating a lack of specific dates or evidence for the required three acts, and presenting alibis or alternative explanations for the circumstances. In some Maryland jurisdictions, prosecutors may seek to introduce evidence of prior bad acts, which a defense lawyer can fight to exclude.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Immediately after arrest or charge, contact a defense lawyer. We analyze the charging documents and begin an initial evidence assessment.
- Investigation & Discovery: We conduct a full investigation, subpoena records, review all police reports and forensic interviews, and identify potential defense witnesses.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the admissibility of prior acts, or seek dismissal if the state’s evidence is insufficient to prove a “continuing course.”
- Negotiation & Trial Preparation: We engage with prosecutors, exploring possibilities for reduced charges or favorable plea terms while simultaneously preparing a vigorous trial defense.
- Trial or Resolution: We are prepared to take the case to trial before a jury to fight for an acquittal. If a plea agreement is in your best interest, we ensure you understand all consequences.
- Sentencing & Appeals: If necessary, we advocate for the most lenient sentence possible and advise on post-conviction options, including appeals.
Potential Penalties for Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree
In Maryland, a conviction for Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree is a felony with a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and mandatory registration as a Tier III sex offender.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5,000 | N/A | Mandatory Tier III Sex Offender Registration; Lifetime supervision possible; Loss of professional licenses; Immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Maryland Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team understands the high stakes of a Course Of Sexual Conduct charge. We approach each case with a detailed, evidence-focused strategy designed to protect your rights and future.
Case Results in Maryland Sex Crimes
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results in challenging sex crime cases across Maryland. For instance, we have secured outcomes such as a nolle prosequi (dismissal) in a Child Pornography Promote/Distribute case in Baltimore County and a fully suspended sentence with probation in a Possession of Child Pornography case. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every client benefits from deep institutional knowledge.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Maryland Location
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. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (301) 363-4040 — with meetings by appointment only. If you are seeking a criminal attorney for a Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree charge, immediate legal advice is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between first and second-degree course of conduct charges in Maryland?
It depends on the victim’s age and the nature of the acts. Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The First Degree involves a victim under 14 and carries a maximum penalty of life in prison. The Second Degree charge involves a victim under 18 and has a maximum penalty of 20 years. Both require proof of a continuing pattern.
Can a criminal attorney get this charge dismissed?
Yes, it is possible. A defense lawyer can file motions to challenge the sufficiency of evidence, suppress illegally obtained evidence, or highlight inconsistencies in the timeline or testimony. Dismissals often result from the prosecution’s inability to prove the required “continuing course” of three or more acts.
What does “continuing course of conduct” mean legally?
The prosecution must prove you engaged in three or more acts that violate specific sexual offense statutes, and that this pattern occurred over a period of 90 days or more. It is not enough to allege a general pattern; the state must provide evidence for each distinct act within the timeframe.
Is parole available if I am convicted?
Parole eligibility in Maryland depends on the sentence imposed. For a felony sex crime, you may be required to serve a significant portion of your sentence before becoming eligible for parole. A criminal court lawyer can explain how sentencing guidelines apply to your specific case.
Why do I need a lawyer who handles sex crimes specifically?
Sex crime cases involve unique rules of evidence, complex forensic testimony, and severe collateral consequences like sex offender registration. An attorney experienced in this specific area understands how to challenge the state’s evidence, work with experienced witnesses, and handle the specialized procedures that apply.
What should I do if I am under investigation but not yet charged?
Contact a defense lawyer immediately. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. An investigation for a course of conduct charge is extensive. Early intervention by legal counsel can protect your rights and potentially influence whether charges are even filed.
Related Practice Areas: Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer | Child Pornography Lawyer Maryland | Maryland Sex Crimes Lawyer Hub
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (301) 363-4040 for current legal guidance regarding a Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree charge.
A course of sexual conduct against a child 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.