In Anne Arundel County, child sexual abuse charges carry severe penalties under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A conviction can mean decades in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. Your defense strategy matters immediately.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-307 (official Maryland General Assembly)
Child sexual abuse in Maryland is defined under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-307. The statute covers sexual acts involving a minor under 18 years old by a person in a position of authority or trust. Charges range from sexual abuse of a minor to aggravated sexual assault. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes these cases aggressively. A conviction carries mandatory minimum sentences, lifetime supervision, and sex offender registration. The law defines “sexual abuse” broadly to include any sexual act, contact, or exploitation of a minor. Maryland also criminalizes child pornography possession and distribution under separate statutes. The District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County handles initial appearances and bail hearings. Felony cases proceed to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court for trial.
For the official Maryland statute on child sexual abuse, see Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-307 (official Maryland General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County official website.
Anne Arundel County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes child sexual abuse cases. Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is not available for most sex offenses. Nolle Prosequi (charges dropped) and Stet (inactive docket) are possible dispositions. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and Nolle Prosequi after a waiting period. The court at 251 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401 serves Anne Arundel County.
- Step 1: Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Step 2: Contact a child sexual abuse lawyer immediately. Early intervention can prevent charges from being filed.
- Step 3: If arrested, request a bail review hearing within 24 hours. The District Court commissioner sets initial bail.
- Step 4: Gather all evidence, including communications, witness names, and any documentation that supports your defense.
- Step 5: Your attorney will file pretrial motions to suppress evidence, challenge probable cause, and negotiate with the State’s Attorney.
- Step 6: Prepare for trial or negotiate a plea. Your attorney will advise on the best strategy based on the evidence.
In Anne Arundel County, child sexual abuse carries penalties including up to 25 years in prison for first-degree assault, mandatory sex offender registration, and fines up to $25,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual Abuse of a Minor | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Sex offender registration, lifetime supervision |
| Child Pornography Possession | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Sex offender registration, computer forfeiture |
| Child Pornography Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Sex offender registration, federal charges possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute in Virginia. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, leads the criminal defense practice in Anne Arundel County. Her prosecutorial experience provides unique insight into how the State’s Attorney builds cases.
SRIS actively practices in Anne Arundel County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. In Maryland sex crimes cases, SRIS has achieved outcomes including Nolle Prosequi (charges dropped) and probation before judgment with all incarceration suspended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Anne Arundel County courts, accessible via I-97, I-695, Route 2, Route 3, Route 50, and Route 301.
Child sexual abuse lawyer near Anne Arundel County — serving Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, Millersville.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes, PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes, Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases are expunged through the court where the case was heard.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
After arrest, you have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if detained. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court. Felonies go to Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes, many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties. Second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. An attorney at District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County can negotiate PBJ or dismissal. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court in Anne Arundel County?
District Court handles misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. Circuit Court handles felony jury trials. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes in both courts. The 180-day speedy trial rule (Hicks date) applies to felony jury trials.
How long does a criminal case take in Anne Arundel County?
District Court misdemeanor cases typically take 30-90 days from arraignment to trial. Circuit Court felony cases take 3-12 months. The Hicks date requires felony jury trials within 180 days from first appearance. Preliminary hearings occur within 30 days if detained.
What is a Nolle Prosequi in Maryland?
A Nolle Prosequi is the State’s Attorney’s decision to drop charges. It is a common disposition in Anne Arundel County. After a Nolle Prosequi, the case is closed and can be expunged. It does not count as a conviction on your record.
What is a Stet docket in Maryland?
A Stet places the case on an inactive docket. The State’s Attorney agrees not to prosecute unless you violate certain conditions. After a period of good behavior, the case can be expunged. Stet is available for many non-violent offenses.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.