In Maryland, online enticement of a minor is a felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-324, carrying up to 25 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. An Online Enticement Lawyer Maryland from our firm can build your defense. Contact us 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-324 (official Maryland General Assembly)
Maryland law defines online enticement as using a computer or electronic device to seduce, solicit, or lure a minor (under 16) for sexual activity. The statute covers communication through social media, chat rooms, text messages, and gaming platforms. A conviction requires proof that the defendant knowingly communicated with a minor or someone believed to be a minor for a prohibited purpose. The charge applies even if no physical meeting occurs. An Online Enticement Lawyer Maryland understands these technical elements and can challenge weak evidence.
Review the official statute at Md. Code, Criminal Law § 3-324 (official Maryland General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Maryland Judiciary website.
- Step 1: Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used as evidence.
- Step 2: Preserve all digital evidence, including messages, call logs, and device records. Do not delete anything.
- Step 3: Contact an Online Enticement Lawyer Maryland immediately to begin building a defense strategy.
- Step 4: Your attorney will file a motion to suppress illegally obtained evidence, such as warrantless searches of your devices.
- Step 5: Negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a reduced charge or alternative disposition like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ).
- Step 6: If no plea is reached, prepare for trial in the District Court of MD for Montgomery County at 191 East Jefferson Street, Rockville, MD 20850.
In Maryland, online enticement of a minor is a felony with a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Enticement of a Minor | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Sex offender registration; mandatory counseling; supervised probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, also oversees all sex crimes cases. He is a former prosecutor and has practiced law since 1997.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Baltimore, Maryland, the firm secured a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal) for a child pornography promotion/distribution charge under Md. Code CR.11.207.(a)(4).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Rockville/MD location is near the District Court of MD for Montgomery County, accessible via I-270, I-495, and Route 355 (Rockville Pike).
Online enticement lawyer near me Maryland: We serve Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
By appointment only.
Do I need a lawyer for an online enticement charge in Maryland?
Yes. Online enticement is a felony carrying up to 25 years in prison. An attorney can negotiate a PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
Can online enticement charges be dismissed in Maryland?
Yes. Dismissal is possible if evidence was illegally obtained, the communication was not with a minor, or the state cannot prove intent. An attorney can file a motion to suppress.
What is the penalty for online enticement of a minor in Maryland?
It depends. The maximum penalty is 25 years in prison and a $25,000 fine. Actual sentences vary based on the facts, prior record, and plea negotiations.
How long does an online enticement case take in Maryland?
It depends. Misdemeanor cases in District Court take 30-90 days. Felony cases in Circuit Court take 3-12 months. The Hicks rule requires a jury trial within 180 days.
Can I get Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for online enticement in Maryland?
It depends. PBJ is available for some offenses but not all. An attorney can evaluate your eligibility and negotiate with the State’s Attorney for this disposition.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.