In Prince George’s County, online solicitation of a minor is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved favorable outcomes in 4,739+ documented cases firm-wide. Former prosecutor Kristen Fisher leads your defense. 24/7 phone consultations available.
Understanding Online Solicitation of a Minor in Prince George’s County
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-324 (official Maryland General Assembly)
Online solicitation of a minor involves using a computer or electronic device to solicit a minor for sexual activity. Under Maryland law, this offense is classified as a felony carrying severe penalties. The statute covers communications made through social media, messaging apps, chat rooms, and other digital platforms. A conviction requires proof that the defendant knowingly solicited a minor (or someone believed to be a minor) for sexual conduct. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, understands the nuances of these cases in Prince George’s County courts.
Official Legal Resources
- Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-324 (official Maryland General Assembly) — The primary statute defining online solicitation of a minor.
- District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (official court website) — Court information and procedures for Prince George’s County.
Insider Procedural Edge: What You Need to Know
In Prince George’s County, the State’s Attorney’s Office aggressively prosecutes online solicitation cases. The court at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro handles initial appearances and bail hearings. Prosecutors often use undercover operations and digital evidence. Your defense requires immediate action to preserve evidence and challenge the state’s case.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present — anything you say can be used against you.
- Preserve all digital evidence, including messages, call logs, and device records — do not delete anything.
- Contact an experienced online solicitation of a minor lawyer Prince Georges County immediately to begin building your defense.
- Attend all court hearings at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County, 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772.
- Work with your attorney to explore pretrial diversion or plea options that may avoid a conviction.
- Prepare for trial if necessary — your attorney will challenge the evidence and the state’s case at every stage.
In Prince George’s County, online solicitation of a minor carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine under Maryland law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Solicitation of a Minor (first offense) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible suspension | Sex offender registration, probation, mandatory counseling |
| Online Solicitation of a Minor (subsequent offense) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $50,000 | Probable suspension | Sex offender registration, extended probation, mandatory counseling |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the state builds its cases. We provide case-specific defense strategies case-specific to the facts of your situation. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to fighting for your rights across Maryland, Virginia, DC, New Jersey, and New York.
Case Results
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across Maryland, Virginia, DC, New Jersey, and New York. In sex crimes cases, our team has achieved dismissals, nolle prosequi dispositions, and probationary sentences that avoid incarceration.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Prince George’s County Location
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Prince George’s County courts, accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, Route 4, Route 5, and Route 202.
We serve: Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, Suitland.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Solicitation of a Minor in Prince George’s County
What is the legal definition of online solicitation of a minor in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland law defines it as using a computer or electronic device to solicit a minor for sexual activity under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-324.
It depends on the specific facts. The statute covers communications made through social media, messaging apps, chat rooms, and other digital platforms. A conviction requires proof that you knowingly solicited a minor (or someone believed to be a minor) for sexual conduct. The penalties are severe, including up to 10 years in prison and sex offender registration.
Can I get probation instead of prison for online solicitation in Prince George’s County?
It depends on the circumstances of your case and your criminal history.
Maryland law allows for probation before judgment (PBJ) in some cases, which avoids a formal conviction on your record. However, online solicitation of a minor is a serious felony, and prosecutors often seek incarceration. An experienced online solicitation of a minor lawyer Prince Georges County can negotiate for alternative sentencing options, including probation with conditions such as counseling and monitoring.
Do I need to register as a sex offender if convicted of online solicitation in Maryland?
Yes, a conviction for online solicitation of a minor typically requires sex offender registration in Maryland.
Registration requirements depend on the specific offense and the court’s determination. Maryland law mandates registration for most sex offenses involving minors. Your attorney can explain the specific registration requirements that may apply to your case and explore options to avoid or minimize registration.
How long does an online solicitation case take in Prince George’s County?
It depends on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial.
Misdemeanor cases in District Court typically resolve within 30-90 days from arraignment to trial. Felony cases in Circuit Court can take 3-12 months. The Hicks rule (180-day speedy trial requirement) applies to felony jury trials. Your attorney can provide a more specific timeline based on the facts of your case.
Can I get my record expunged after an online solicitation charge in Maryland?
It depends on the outcome of your case.
Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, nolle prosequi, stet, and PBJ (after a 3-year waiting period). However, convictions for online solicitation of a minor may not be eligible for expungement under current law. An affordable online solicitation of a minor lawyer Prince George’s County can evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the process.
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.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.