Child Sex Abuse

The law fiercely defends the most vulnerable among us: our children. However, that means innocent people get swept up in spurious charges, or that the focus is on punishment, not rehabilitation.

JC Law defends our clients and presents their side of the story to the courtroom for their opportunity for justice, keeping over-eager prosecutors and overly punitive sentences at bay.

What Is Child Molestation?

Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania consider any illicit or offensive touching of a minor as child molestation. The crime is most commonly associated with sex crimes involving minors. In some cases, child molestation may be interchanged by prosecutors with child sexual abuse charges.

Many child molestation claims are based on exaggerations, misunderstandings, and falsifications. This “evidence” puts the defendant in an unfair position where they must protect themselves from a fantastical opposition that feels free to say whatever needs to be said to secure a conviction.

Examples of actions that might be twisted into child molestation include:

• Parent using spankings as discipline.
• Teacher grabbing ahold of a riotous child to protect other children.
• Religious figure speaking privately with a child at the child’s request.
• Adult talking to a child using an online forum, such as social media or a video game.

Baltimore may also charge statutory rape as child sexual abuse or child molestation, depending on the circumstances.

What Is Considered Child Enticement?

Child enticement in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania is defined as the act of luring or taking a minor child under 18 years of age away from their parents in order to commit unlawful sexual conduct.

Even if no sexual contact occurs, a defendant may be convicted of child enticement.

While child enticement is often thought of as an act of luring a child into a secluded area or vehicle, the internet has enabled potential predators to urge minors to engage in unlawful sexual conduct.

Common types of crimes considered child enticement include the following:

• Lure a child to an outside, secluded area
• Lure a child to a building or dwelling
• Lure a child to a vehicle
• Have sex with a minor
• Engage in unlawful sexual conduct with a minor over the internet
• Solicit a minor for prostitution
• Lewd acts with a minor

What Does Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania Law Define As Child Sexual Abuse?

Child sexual abuse is generally thought of as a profane or sexual contact with a minor. These allegations can be as serious as overt sexual acts or as relatively innocent as a minor touching.

In Baltimore courts in particular, child molestation cases are considered to be sexual abuse of a minor and are often charged as a felony offense.

Types of child sexual abuse cases include:

• A person in a position of authority: This is usually a fourth-degree misdemeanor sex offense charge with the possibility of a jail term. If a school employee, such as a teacher, principal, or anyone else who has any type of authoritative position over children and a sexual act or abuse is alleged, that person can be charged criminally.
• Statutory rape: Common child molestation cases involve an adult who is at least four years older than the child in question. The alleged victim is typically younger than 14. In Baltimore, if you are over 18, you can face the most serious felony statutory rape charges.

False allegations of child molestation are often brought into the environment in today’s society, without regard to the guilt or innocence of the accused.

What are the Possible Consequences of Child-Related Sex Crimes?

Convictions for various child-related sex offenses vary, depending on the circumstances and severity. However, the more “ill intent” that can be proven and the younger the child, the harsher the penalties.

• Child molestation sentences: Expect a year or more in prison, and to pay thousands of dollars in fines. You will also be placed on Maryland’s sex offender registry for at least 10 years.
• Child enticement sentences: As a felony offense, this crime is punishable by a maximum prison sentence of 25 years and fines of up to $5,000. Additionally, a conviction can result in sex offender registration in Maryland.
• Child sexual abuse sentences: These punishments depend on the situation. Convicted authority figures will be sentenced as a fourth-degree sex offense misdemeanor with the possibility of jail time. Those convicted of statutory rape face significant first or second-degree rape charges – with a minimum 15-year prison sentence and no chance of parole. Sex offender registration is also a possibility.

Understanding the Complexities: JC Law’s Commitment to Representation in Sensitive Cases

The decision to seek legal representation is never easy, especially when facing accusations as serious and emotionally charged as child rape. At JC Law, we understand the immense weight and complexity these situations carry. We are committed to providing a strong, ethical, and unwavering defense for individuals accused of these crimes in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

We know that the general public might find it difficult to understand why a law firm would represent someone accused of such a heinous offense. It’s a valid question, and it deserves a considered response. Our answer lies in the bedrock principles of the American justice system: the right to due process, the presumption of innocence, and the right to a fair trial. These rights apply to everyone, regardless of the accusations they face.

• The Cornerstone of Justice: Presumption of Innocence
  Before I delve further, I want to emphasize the cornerstone of our legal system: the presumption of innocence. Every individual, including those accused of child rape, is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. This isn’t just a legal technicality; it’s a fundamental safeguard against wrongful convictions. We believe that everyone deserves a chance to present their side of the story and challenge the evidence against them. Our role is to ensure that this right is protected.
• Navigating a Minefield of Complexity:
  Cases involving accusations of child rape are often incredibly complex, involving intricate forensic evidence, psychological evaluations, and emotionally charged testimonies. These cases demand a meticulous and experienced legal team capable of navigating these challenges effectively. That’s where JC Law comes in. We bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the table.
• Why Choose JC Law for Your Defense?
  We recognize that choosing a legal team during this difficult time is a critical decision. Here’s what sets JC Law apart:
  • Unwavering Commitment to Due Process: We are dedicated to ensuring that our clients’ rights are protected at every stage of the legal process, from initial investigation to trial and beyond. We meticulously examine every aspect of the case, challenging any violations of due process or constitutional rights.
  • Experienced and Aggressive Representation: Our attorneys possess extensive experience in handling complex criminal cases, including those involving accusations of child rape. We understand the nuances of the law and the strategies necessary to build a strong defense. We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution’s case and advocate fiercely for our clients.
  • Compassionate and Confidential Counsel: We understand the emotional toll that these accusations can take on individuals and their families. We provide compassionate and understanding counsel, offering support and guidance throughout the legal process. We also maintain strict confidentiality, protecting our clients’ privacy and ensuring that their case is handled with the utmost discretion.
  • Comprehensive Investigation and Expert Testimony: We conduct thorough independent investigations, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to build a comprehensive defense. We also work with leading experts in relevant fields, such as forensic science, psychology, and child development, to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and present alternative explanations.
  • Strategic and Personalized Approach: We understand that every case is unique, and we tailor our legal strategy to the specific circumstances of each client. We work closely with our clients to understand their goals and objectives, and we develop a personalized defense plan that is designed to achieve the best possible outcome.
• Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions:
  I understand that many people have strong feelings about these types of cases, and there are often misconceptions about the role of a defense attorney. Let me address some of those concerns:
  • “Representing someone accused of child rape is morally wrong.” As attorneys, our role is not to judge the accused but to ensure that they receive a fair trial. We are bound by ethical obligations to provide competent and diligent representation to all of our clients, regardless of the charges they face. We believe that everyone deserves a defense, and we are committed to upholding the principles of justice.
  • “Defense attorneys try to get guilty people off.” Our goal is not to help guilty people escape justice. Our goal is to ensure that the prosecution proves its case beyond a reasonable doubt. We challenge the evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present alternative explanations to ensure that the jury has all the information necessary to make a fair and informed decision.
  • “Representing someone accused of child rape is simply for the money.” While we are a business, our commitment to justice goes beyond financial considerations. We believe in the importance of defending the rights of the accused, and we are proud to provide a voice for those who might otherwise be silenced. We understand that the fees associated with legal representation can be a burden, and we work with our clients to develop payment plans that are manageable and affordable.
• The Importance of a Vigorous Defense:
  A vigorous defense is not just about protecting the rights of the accused; it’s also about ensuring the integrity of the justice system. When the prosecution is challenged to prove its case, it is forced to be more thorough and accurate in its investigation and presentation of evidence. This ultimately leads to a more just outcome, regardless of the verdict. Moreover, by ensuring a fair trial, we protect against the risk of wrongful conviction, which can have devastating consequences for the wrongly accused and their families.
• JC Law: Your Advocate in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
  If you or someone you know is facing accusations of child rape in Maryland, Pennsylvania, or Virginia, it’s crucial to seek legal representation immediately. Contact JC Law today for a confidential consultation. We will listen to your story, assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case, and develop a comprehensive defense strategy that is tailored to your specific needs. We are here to provide you with the strong, ethical, and unwavering representation you deserve.
• Our Commitment to Discretion And Understanding

We understand that accusations of the nature brings about extreme psychological and emotional strain. We at JC Law, treat every case with the respect and discretion which you deserve. We will take our time to carefully understand the situation to bring about the best solution.

• Taking the First Step: Contact JC Law Today
  I know that reaching out for legal help can be daunting, especially in these circumstances. But please know that you are not alone. We are here to listen, to advise, and to advocate for you. Contact JC Law today to schedule a confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and protect your rights.

“[Jim] Crawford is an excellent lawyer. Was upfront from the beginning, fast response to all questions, always returned phone calls. Well respected in the court system.”

Find out what it’s like to work with us.