Criminal Defense

Being convicted of a crime can significantly impact your life, including your ability to volunteer. This is somewhat ironic, given that courts often impose mandatory community service – which is, essentially, court-ordered volunteering – as part of an individual’s...

During a criminal investigation, it is not uncommon to find yourself in a high-pressure situation where every word is under scrutiny. Whether due to nerves or poor awareness of the risks, you could worsen your position simply by speaking.  That is why it is vital to...

In criminal cases, the standard of proof is very high. It has to be shown that the evidence means the accused is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This is much different than civil cases, where a preponderance of evidence may be used. While most people have heard this...

If you are facing criminal charges, one thing that you and your legal team need to do is to determine your best course of action moving forward. In some cases, this may mean trying to beat the charges. For instance, if you were misidentified by an eyewitness at the...

In the intricate dance of the Maryland criminal justice system, plea bargains often emerge as a tempting shortcut. However, defendants should be wary of accepting such an agreement without thorough consideration. A plea bargain that could lead to a more lenient...

If you are being arrested or detained by the police, they may want to access your smartphone. It is fairly common advice not to hand the police your phone if it is unlocked. Once you lock it, this restricts access and they can only get in with a passcode or with...

In Maryland, bail serves as a way for defendants to secure their release from custody while awaiting trial. Its purpose is to ensure defendants appear in court for their scheduled hearings. Bail can be in the form of cash, property or a bond. A bond promises to pay...

If you find yourself on the wrong side of the law, a District Court Commissioner is likely to be involved in your case. They play a crucial part in the state's judicial system. After you are arrested in Maryland, you will typically be taken before a District Court...

In some instances, the police in Maryland may have grounds to search a person, building, apartment, premises or thing without a warrant. And one of those circumstances occurs when consent is granted. Who can grant such consent? The person with a legal, possessory...

One of the rights granted by the U.S. Constitution is the right to a “trial by jury” if someone has been charged with a crime. Many defendants prefer not to put their future in the hands of people they don’t know – especially if they can get a plea deal that involves...