It’s easy to assume that the majority of sex crimes are committed by adults. However, recent data reveal a concerning rise in sex offenses committed by adolescents. If you’re at least 14 years old and facing accusations or charges related to a sex crime, it’s crucial to understand the gravity of the situation and what lies ahead.
This article will delve into the misconceptions surrounding adolescent sex offenses, outline what you can expect if you’re accused and charged with a crime, and discuss the potential impact on your future if convicted.
Common Misconceptions to Keep in Mind
One of the biggest misconceptions is that adults are solely responsible for most sex crimes. While adults are still the majority, statistics show that juveniles account for a significant portion of sex offenses against minors, ranging from 20% to 30%. This number is higher than many people realize.
Adolescent sex crimes are often rooted in complex issues. Many juvenile sex offenders have experienced sexual or physical abuse themselves, regardless of their upbringing. Family instability can also be a contributing factor, and these circumstances can occur in any environment.
Another common belief is that adolescent sex offenders are more likely to commit another crime later in life. However, studies suggest that sex offense recidivism rates are relatively low, with some studies reporting re-offense rates as low as 3%.
Finally, there’s a misconception that the current sex offender system adequately addresses the needs of convicted offenders. While the public may have negative perceptions of sex crimes, everyone deserves legal representation. Aggressive laws related to sex offenses can have lifelong consequences, making it essential to hire an attorney who can defend you against the worst possible outcomes and protect your future.
“The presumption of innocence until proven guilty is a cornerstone of our legal system. Everyone, regardless of the accusations against them, deserves a fair defense.” – James E. Crawford, Jr., JC Law
What to Expect if Charged: The Juvenile Court Process
In Maryland, juvenile courts handle all crimes committed by individuals under the age of 18. While each case is unique, the court process generally follows a similar structure to adult court proceedings.
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Right to Counsel | You have the right to a lawyer throughout the entire process. Given the severity of the potential consequences for juvenile sex offenses, securing the best possible legal representation is crucial to minimize damage to your future. |
| Detention Hearing | If law enforcement and the court order your detention before the hearing, a hearing will be scheduled to discuss the terms of your detention. |
| Fact-Finding Hearing (Adjudication) | This is the juvenile court equivalent of a trial. Held within 30-60 days of detention, both sides present evidence, call witnesses, and cross-examine. The court determines whether the juvenile is guilty. Note: There are no juries in Maryland Juvenile Court. |
| Disposition Hearing | This is the sentencing portion of the proceeding. If the juvenile did not admit to the offense, the judge determines if the child is delinquent based on the evidence presented. Possible dispositions include: |
| * Probation: Supervised release under court-set conditions. | |
| * Commitment to the Department of Juvenile Services: Removal from home and placement in a rehabilitative facility. | |
| * Restitution: Compensation for damages or costs caused by the child’s actions. |
It is important to note that under certain felony sex offenses, a child at least 15 years old can be tried as an adult in Maryland. This process is far more complicated and public than juvenile court. It is absolutely crucial to avoid adult charges as much as possible, and a skilled criminal defense attorney like JC Law can help keep your case at the juvenile court level. James E. Crawford, Jr. and his team have extensive experience in MD, VA, PA, and DC.
Protecting Your Future
Juvenile sex crimes carry serious consequences, particularly in cases where a child is tried as an adult.
Depending on the charge, a juvenile tried as an adult could face anywhere from 10 years to life in prison and fines exceeding $25,000. Instead of being placed on Maryland’s Juvenile Sex Offender Registry (a non-public list), the child would be added to the public sex offender registry. This can have devastating long-term effects, as the conviction becomes accessible to anyone, including family, friends, potential employers, and law enforcement.
Even within the juvenile system, the consequences can be significant. A judge could impose probation, commitment, or restitution. Though juvenile records are not public, employers and college admissions committees may inquire about your criminal record as a condition of acceptance or hiring.
While Maryland allows for juvenile record expungement petitions, there are provisions that can block expungement for adolescents who are required to register as sex offenders.
Juvenile sentencing isn’t always straightforward. In some cases, juvenile sex offenders may remain committed for years if deemed “not ready” or “unsafe” to return to the public. Despite the rehabilitative focus of juvenile courts, records can remain long after the disposition.
If you’ve been accused or charged with a juvenile sex crime in MD, VA, PA, and DC, contact JC Law for a free initial consultation. James E. Crawford, Jr, and our team of lawyers specialize in defending criminal sex offenses. By seeking legal help, you can protect your future and potentially avoid being tried as an adult.
