Maryland Sexual Solicitation Of A Minor Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Sexual solicitation of a minor is a serious felony in Maryland under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-324, carrying up to 10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. A conviction has permanent consequences. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a Maryland sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer immediately. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Maryland Law on Sexual Solicitation of a Minor
In Maryland, the crime of sexual solicitation of a minor is defined under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-324. The statute makes it illegal for an adult to knowingly solicit, lure, or entice a minor, or someone the adult believes to be a minor, to engage in sexual conduct. This law applies broadly, covering communications via any method, including in person, by phone, text, email, or through online platforms and social media. The prosecution does not need to prove you intended to meet the minor; the act of solicitation itself is the crime.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-324 (official Maryland General Assembly). For court procedures and information, visit the Maryland Judiciary website.
Defending a Sexual Solicitation Charge in Maryland
These cases often hinge on digital evidence and the intent behind communications. A common investigative tactic is an undercover police operation where an officer poses as a minor online. A strong defense requires a criminal attorney to challenge the evidence collection methods, the context of messages, and the defendant’s knowledge and intent.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present. Contact a Maryland sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer.
- Evidence Review & Investigation: Your criminal court lawyer will obtain all discovery, including chat logs, IP address records, and police reports, to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Potential defenses may include lack of knowledge (you believed the person was an adult), entrapment, or insufficient evidence of criminal intent.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will either negotiate for a favorable plea resolution or prepare a vigorous trial defense to fight the criminal charges.
Potential Penalties for Sexual Solicitation of a Minor in Maryland
In Maryland, sexual solicitation of a minor is a felony punishable by imprisonment, fines, and lifelong registration as a tier II sex offender.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual Solicitation of a Minor (First Offense) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $25,000 | N/A | Mandatory sex offender registration (Tier II), possible probation. |
| Sexual Solicitation of a Minor (Subsequent Offense) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | N/A | Mandatory sex offender registration (Tier II), likely prison sentence. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Maryland Sex Crime Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has a documented record of handling sensitive sex crime cases. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights from the initial investigation through trial.
Case Results in Maryland Sex Crimes Defense
Our firm has achieved favorable outcomes in Maryland sex crime cases. For example, we secured a result of 5 years of incarceration with all time suspended and 5 years of supervised probation in a Baltimore County child pornography possession case. In other cases, we have obtained dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) for charges of promoting or distributing child pornography.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a Maryland Sexual Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer Near You
Our Rockville location serves clients across Maryland. We offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “solicitation” mean under Maryland law?
It means to request, lure, or entice. Under Md. Code § 3-324, an adult who knowingly asks or encourages a minor to engage in sexual activity commits the crime, even if no meeting occurs.
Can I be charged if I was talking to an undercover police officer?
Yes. If you believed you were communicating with a minor, you can be charged with sexual solicitation of a minor. A common defense in such cases is entrapment, which requires specific legal arguments.
What are the long-term consequences of a conviction?
It depends on the specific outcome, but a felony conviction typically requires registration as a Tier II sex offender for 25 years. This affects where you can live, work, and imposes public notification requirements.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me?
No. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact a Maryland sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer first.
What should I look for in a defense lawyer for this charge?
You need a criminal attorney with specific experience in Maryland sex crime defense, knowledge of digital evidence, and a track record of handling cases in the Circuit Court where your case will be heard.
A sexual solicitation of a minor 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.