Promoting A Sexual Performance By A Child Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Defense Options?
Promoting a sexual performance by a child is a serious felony under Maryland law, carrying severe penalties. If you are under investigation or have been charged, you need a dedicated criminal attorney with specific experience in these complex cases. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Maryland Law on Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child
In Maryland, the crime of promoting a sexual performance by a child is defined under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 11-207. The statute makes it illegal to produce, direct, promote, advertise, or otherwise participate in the preparation of a performance that includes sexual conduct by a child. A “child” is defined as an individual under the age of 18. A “performance” includes any play, motion picture, photograph, dance, or other visual representation. The law is aggressively enforced, and a conviction results in mandatory sex offender registration.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, review Md. Code, Criminal Law § 11-207. For court procedures and forms, visit the Maryland Judiciary website.
Building a Defense in Maryland Courts
Defending against a charge of promoting a sexual performance by a child requires immediate and strategic action. Prosecutors in Maryland Circuit Courts treat these cases with high priority. An experienced defense lawyer will scrutinize every aspect of the state’s evidence, from the legality of the search and seizure to the chain of custody of digital evidence. The defense may challenge whether the material meets the legal definition, whether the accused had knowledge of the minor’s age, or if there was a legitimate artistic or educational purpose.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Contact a lawyer specializing in sex crimes defense.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your attorney will review all charging documents, police reports, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- File Pre-Trial Motions: This may include motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or to challenge the sufficiency of the charges.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will advise on the best path forward, which could involve negotiation for a reduced charge or preparing for trial.
- Trial or Resolution: If a fair plea agreement cannot be reached, your attorney will vigorously defend you at trial, challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every step.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In Maryland, promoting a sexual performance by a child is a felony that can result in decades in prison, substantial fines, and lifelong sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child | Felony | Up to 25 years in prison | Up to $25,000 | N/A | Mandatory sex offender registration, loss of professional licenses, restrictions on where you can live and work. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Sex Crimes Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our team understands the immense pressure and complexity of defending against charges for promoting a sexual performance by a child. We approach each case with a detailed, evidence-focused strategy aimed at protecting your liberty and reputation.
Documented Case Results
Our commitment to a strong defense is reflected in our case history. For instance, our attorneys have secured results such as a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal) for a client charged with promoting/distributing child pornography in Baltimore County. In another case, we negotiated a result of 5 years of incarceration, all suspended, with probation for a possession charge. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law demonstrate a deep understanding of legal strategy.
Local Defense for Maryland Charges
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.
If you need a Promoting A Sexual Performance By A Child Lawyer Maryland near you, our Rockville location serves clients across the state. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only to ensure we dedicate our full attention to your case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does “promoting” mean under this law?
It depends. The law defines promoting broadly to include producing, directing, financing, publishing, or advertising a performance. Simply sharing or possessing such material may be charged under different statutes, like possession of child pornography.
Is this a federal or state crime?
It can be both. Promoting a sexual performance by a child violates Maryland state law (Md. Code, Criminal Law § 11-207) and can also violate federal statutes if it involves interstate commerce or the internet, skilled to separate federal criminal charges.
What are the possible defenses?
A skilled criminal charges defense may argue lack of knowledge regarding the performer’s age, challenge the legality of how evidence was obtained, question whether the content meets the legal definition, or assert a constitutional defense. Each case is unique and requires a case-specific strategy.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
Yes. A conviction for promoting a sexual performance by a child in Maryland carries a mandatory requirement to register as a Tier III sex offender, which is for life. This is one of the most severe long-term consequences of a conviction.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a criminal attorney. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you believe you are explaining your innocence.
A promoting a sexual performance by a child 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.