In Howard County, online solicitation of a minor under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article carries severe penalties including mandatory sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Former prosecutors on staff provide strategic defense at District Court of MD for Howard County.
What Is Online Solicitation of a Minor Under Maryland Law?
Maryland law prohibits using a computer or electronic device to solicit, seduce, or entice a minor under 18 for sexual activity. This offense is prosecuted under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-324. The statute covers communications made through social media, messaging apps, email, and online forums. A conviction carries up to 10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration for life.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Maryland Legal Resources
- Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-324 (Official Maryland General Assembly)
- District Court of MD for Howard County — Official Court Website
How Online Solicitation Cases Proceed in Howard County
Howard County District Court handles initial appearances for these cases. Felony charges proceed to Howard County Circuit Court for trial. The State’s Attorney for Howard County prosecutes these cases aggressively.
- Arrest or summons issued after investigation by Howard County Police or Maryland State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
- Initial appearance before District Court commissioner for bail determination.
- Bail review hearing in District Court within 24 hours if detained.
- Preliminary hearing within 30 days if held without indictment.
- Indictment by grand jury for felony charges, then arraignment in Circuit Court.
- Pretrial motions, plea negotiations, or trial in Circuit Court.
In Howard County, online solicitation of a minor carries up to 10 years incarceration, fines, and mandatory sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Solicitation of a Minor (§ 3-324) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $25,000 | None specific | Mandatory sex offender registration (lifetime); loss of professional licenses; immigration consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Howard County Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State’s Attorney for Howard County builds these cases. We provide case-specific defense strategies for each client.
Case Results in Maryland Sex Crimes
SRIS actively practices in Howard County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Examples of Maryland sex crimes results include:
- Possess Child Pornography — 5 Years incarceration with ALL suspended, 5 Years supervised Probation (C.O.M.E.T.)
- Child Pornography Promote/Distribute — Nolle Prosequi (dismissed)
- Child Pornography Promote/Distribute — Nolle Prosequi (dismissed)
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Howard County courts, accessible via I-95, Route 29, Route 1, Route 32, and Route 175.
Online Solicitation of a Minor lawyer near Howard County — serving Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel.
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
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Solicitation of a Minor in Howard County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for online solicitation in Howard County?
No. PBJ is generally not available for online solicitation of a minor because it is a felony sex offense under Maryland law. Felony sex crimes are excluded from PBJ eligibility. Your attorney can discuss alternative dispositions.
Can I get my record expunged after an online solicitation charge in Howard County?
It depends. If the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or Nolle Prosequi, expungement is available. A conviction for online solicitation of a minor cannot be expunged under Maryland law. Consult an attorney about your specific situation.
What happens immediately after an online solicitation arrest in Howard County?
After arrest, you have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. If detained, a bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours in District Court of MD for Howard County. Felony charges proceed to Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for an online solicitation charge in Howard County?
Yes. Online solicitation of a minor is a felony carrying up to 10 years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration. An experienced attorney at District Court of MD for Howard County can negotiate dispositions or challenge evidence. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for these cases?
District Court of MD for Howard County handles initial appearances and misdemeanor trials. Howard County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials for online solicitation charges. Felony cases begin in District Court and are transferred to Circuit Court after indictment.
Related Legal Resources
- Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Montgomery County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- DUI Lawyer Howard County
- Family Law Lawyer Howard County
- Kristen Fisher Attorney Profile
- Maryland Office Location
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.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.