If you’re a parent, teen, or adult in a relationship with someone younger, it’s crucial to understand Maryland’s age of consent laws. The state takes sexual offenses involving minors seriously, and the penalties can be life-changing. In this post, we’ll explain the age of consent in Maryland, the exceptions, and how the law treats authority figures and close-in-age relationships.
What Is the Legal Age of Consent in Maryland?
In Maryland, the legal age of consent is 16. That means a person who is 16 years old or older can legally agree to engage in sexual activity with another person, including adults. This is the age at which Maryland law recognizes a person as capable of consenting to sexual conduct.
However, simply turning 16 doesn’t give someone blanket legal protection in all situations. There are important exceptions that can make consensual relationships criminal under Maryland law, especially when there is a significant age gap or an imbalance of power.
Exceptions: Authority Figures and Position of Trust
Maryland law prohibits sexual activity between a person under 18 and an adult who holds a position of authority or trust over them. This includes:
- Teachers
- Coaches
- Clergy
- Employers
- Counselors
- Foster parents
- Law enforcement officers
Even if the younger person is 16 or 17, a relationship with someone in a position of authority could result in criminal charges under Criminal Law § 3-308, which prohibits sexual contact by persons in authority.
These laws are designed to prevent manipulation or coercion in relationships where one person holds power over the other.
Close-in-Age Exception: Maryland’s Romeo and Juliet Law
Maryland also has a “Romeo and Juliet” law, which provides a limited exception for teens who are close in age. Under Criminal Law § 3-307, a minor who is 14 or 15 years old may legally engage in sexual activity with someone who is less than 4 years older than them.
For example:
- A 15-year-old and an 18-year-old could legally be in a relationship.
- But if the older person is 19 or 20, that could exceed the 4-year limit and result in criminal charges.
This law recognizes that consensual teenage relationships shouldn’t always be treated the same as predatory or exploitative ones.
Penalties for Violating Age of Consent Laws
Violations of Maryland’s age of consent laws can result in serious felony charges, including:
- Sexual offense in the second or third degree
- Rape
- Sexual abuse of a minor
Penalties can include:
- Years or decades in prison
- Mandatory sex offender registration
- Felony convictions that follow you for life
Being charged with one of these offenses doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted—but it does mean you need a skilled defense attorney immediately.
What If You’re Facing Charges Involving a Minor?
If you’re being investigated or charged with a sex offense involving someone under the age of consent in Maryland, don’t wait. These cases are complex and highly sensitive. Law enforcement and prosecutors move quickly—and you should too.
At Southern Maryland Criminal Defense, we know how to build strong defenses for people facing serious accusations in Charles, Prince George’s, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties. Whether the issue involves a misunderstanding, false allegation, or a close-in-age relationship, we’re ready to fight for your future.
Talk to a Southern Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you have questions about the age of consent in Maryland or you’re facing criminal charges, schedule a confidential consultation today. Protect your rights before it’s too late.
