Solicitation of a Minor Attorney in Maryland
Sexual solicitation of a minor is one of the most serious criminal charges a person can face in Maryland. Under Maryland law, the offense involves using a communications device or computer to solicit, entice, or persuade a person the defendant believes to be under 16 years of age to engage in unlawful sexual conduct. A conviction carries severe consequences, including a substantial period of incarceration and mandatory sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals facing these allegations throughout Maryland. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive experience to these high-stakes matters. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Solicitation of a Minor Means in Maryland
Maryland law treats sexual solicitation of a minor as a felony offense. The statute criminalizes using an electronic device to communicate with a person the defendant believes to be a minor and, through that communication, soliciting or attempting to solicit the minor to engage in prohibited sexual activity. The offense does not require physical contact or an in-person meeting; the communication itself, if made with the requisite intent, is sufficient to support a charge. Law enforcement agencies in Maryland, including the Maryland State Police and local task forces, actively conduct online undercover operations targeting individuals suspected of soliciting minors. These investigations often involve officers posing as minors in chat rooms, social media platforms, or messaging applications.
A person charged under § 3-324 faces a felony prosecution that can result in a lengthy prison sentence and mandatory registration as a sex offender. The registration obligation carries long-term collateral consequences affecting employment, housing, and community standing. Because the offense is classified as a registrable sex crime, a conviction also subjects the individual to community notification requirements and residency restrictions. The firm’s attorneys understand the investigative techniques used in these cases and work to identify constitutional and procedural issues that may affect the admissibility of evidence or the validity of the charge.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Solicitation Cases
When the firm takes on a solicitation of a minor case, it begins by examining the government’s evidence for constitutional challenges. Many of these investigations involve warrantless electronic surveillance, undercover communications, and the use of software that may raise Fourth Amendment concerns. The firm’s attorneys review the chain of custody for digital evidence, the methods used to identify the defendant, and whether law enforcement complied with Maryland’s wiretap and electronic communication statutes. If evidence was obtained in violation of the defendant’s rights, the firm may move to suppress it.
The firm also evaluates whether the defendant had the requisite intent under the statute. The prosecution must prove that the defendant believed the other person was under 16 and that the communication was for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual conduct. Defenses may include lack of intent, entrapment, or mistaken identity. In some cases, the firm may present information to investigators before a charging decision is made, potentially influencing the direction of the case. Throughout the process, the firm’s attorneys work to protect the client’s rights and pursue a resolution that minimizes the long-term impact of the charge.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he brings firsthand insight into how the state builds and prosecutes sex crime cases. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He concentrates his practice on complex criminal defense matters, including felony sex offenses.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys contribute extensive combined legal experience to every matter. They work collaboratively with Mr. Sris to analyze evidence, develop defense strategies, and represent clients at all stages of the criminal process. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have documented case results across multiple practice areas since 1997. Results may vary. Prior outcomes do not guarantee a similar result
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sexual solicitation of a minor under Maryland law?
Sexual solicitation of a minor in Maryland is a felony offense under Maryland law that prohibits using an electronic device to solicit a person believed to be under 16 for unlawful sexual conduct. The statute covers communications made by computer, phone, or any other electronic means. The offense does not require physical contact; the communication itself, if made with the intent to engage in prohibited sexual activity, is sufficient to support a conviction. Law enforcement agencies frequently conduct online sting operations to identify and charge individuals suspected of this crime.
What are the potential consequences of a conviction for solicitation of a minor?
A conviction for sexual solicitation of a minor carries a substantial period of incarceration and mandatory sex offender registration. The exact sentence depends on the specific facts of the case, the defendant’s prior record, and the judge’s discretion. In addition to imprisonment, a person convicted under § 3-324 must register as a sex offender, which imposes long-term restrictions on where the individual may live, work, and travel. The registration obligation also subjects the person to community notification requirements. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for solicitation of a minor?
Yes, anyone under investigation for solicitation of a minor should seek legal representation immediately. Law enforcement may attempt to question you before charges are filed, and anything you say can be used against you. An experienced attorney can advise you on how to respond to investigators, protect your rights, and begin building a defense. Early intervention may also allow the firm to present information to the prosecutor before a charging decision is made. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How does the firm defend against solicitation of a minor charges?
The firm examines the government’s evidence for constitutional violations, challenges the element of intent, and explores defenses such as entrapment or mistaken identity. Many solicitation cases rely on digital evidence obtained through undercover operations. The firm’s attorneys review whether law enforcement complied with search and seizure laws, whether the defendant’s identity was properly established, and whether the communication actually constituted solicitation under the statute. Each case is unique, and the defense strategy is tailored to the specific facts and evidence.
What should I do if law enforcement contacts me about a solicitation investigation?
If law enforcement contacts you, politely decline to answer questions and state that you wish to speak with an attorney. Do not consent to a search of your electronic devices or provide any passwords. Anything you say can be used to build a case against you. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437-7747.
Can solicitation of a minor charges be reduced or dismissed?
In some cases, charges may be reduced or dismissed if the evidence is insufficient, obtained unlawfully, or if the defendant did not have the requisite intent. The firm’s attorneys work to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and negotiate with the state for a favorable resolution. However, every case is different, and outcomes depend on the specific facts and the strength of the evidence. Results may vary.
For additional information on Maryland sex crime statutes, visit the Maryland Code, Criminal Law. For court information, see the Maryland Courts website.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.