Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer in Wicomico County — What Are Your Rights?
In Wicomico County, online solicitation of a minor is a felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-324, carrying up to 10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. An experienced Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer Wicomico County can help protect your future.
Statutory Definition of Online Solicitation of a Minor in Maryland
Under Maryland law, online solicitation of a minor is defined as using a computer, cell phone, or other electronic device to solicit, entice, or encourage a minor (under 18) to engage in sexual activity. This offense is codified in Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-324. The statute covers communications made through social media, messaging apps, email, and online forums. A conviction requires proof that the defendant knowingly communicated with a minor or someone believed to be a minor for a sexual purpose. The law applies regardless of whether the minor was actually a law enforcement officer posing as a child.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Wicomico County | Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-324 (official Maryland General Assembly)
Official Legal Resources
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Wicomico County
In Wicomico County, online solicitation cases are prosecuted aggressively by the State’s Attorney. The District Court of MD for Wicomico County at 201 Baptist Street, Suite 100, Salisbury, MD 21801 handles initial appearances and bail hearings. Felony charges proceed to Wicomico County Circuit Court for trial.
- Step 1: Initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail.
- Step 2: Bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained.
- Step 3: Preliminary hearing within 30 days if detained without indictment.
- Step 4: Arraignment in Circuit Court for felony charges.
- Step 5: Discovery, pretrial motions, and plea negotiations.
- Step 6: Trial or plea hearing.
Penalties for Online Solicitation of a Minor in Wicomico County
In Wicomico County, online solicitation of a minor carries a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Solicitation of a Minor (Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-324) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $25,000 | None specified | Sex offender registration; mandatory counseling; supervised probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results
Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific Wicomico County online solicitation results are not listed, our Maryland sex crimes team has achieved dismissals and favorable dispositions in similar cases across the state.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Representation for Wicomico County
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Wicomico County courts, accessible via Route 50, Route 13, and Route 349. We serve Salisbury, Fruitland, Delmar, Mardela Springs, Sharptown, and Pittsville. An affordable online solicitation of a minor lawyer Wicomico County is available through our firm.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Solicitation of a Minor in Wicomico County
Can I get Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for online solicitation of a minor in Wicomico County?
No. PBJ is generally not available for online solicitation of a minor under Maryland law because it is a felony sex offense. A conviction carries mandatory sex offender registration. An Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer Wicomico County can explain alternative options.
Is online solicitation of a minor a felony in Maryland?
Yes. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-324, online solicitation of a minor is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine. Conviction also requires sex offender registration.
What should I do if I am being investigated for online solicitation in Wicomico County?
It depends. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact an Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer Wicomico County immediately. Evidence from electronic devices is often central to these cases.
How long does an online solicitation case take in Wicomico County?
It depends. Misdemeanor cases in District Court typically resolve in 30-90 days. Felony cases in Circuit Court can take 3-12 months. The 180-day speedy trial rule (Hicks date) applies to felony jury trials.
Can online solicitation charges be expunged in Maryland?
It depends. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and Nolle Prosequi. Convictions for online solicitation of a minor generally cannot be expunged. An Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer Wicomico County can evaluate your specific situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time online solicitation offense in Wicomico County?
Yes. Even a first offense carries up to 10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. A conviction can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. An experienced Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer Wicomico County is essential.
Related Legal Resources
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.