When determining sentences for criminal convictions, the court will look at a number of factors. No two cases are the same and sentences reflect this. For example, an individual with multiple prior convictions may receive a harsher sentence than someone with no prior...
Personal Attention.
Aggressive Defense.
Criminal Defense
What is good policing, and why does it matter?
Law enforcement officers have a duty to protect the citizens of their state and country. Their duty gives them power and authority, which they should use responsibly and for the greater good of their community. Unfortunately, there are police officers who take...
Understand charges for property crimes in Maryland
Many people may use the terms theft, robbery and burglary interchangeably. However, Maryland's legal system categorizes these offenses into multiple different charges. Furthermore, the state addresses these property crimes with tailored penalties that vary widely...
How to exercise your right to remain silent
The Fifth Amendment protects you against being compelled to be a witness against yourself in a criminal case. This is often referred to as the right to remain silent. Knowing how to exercise this right when questioned by law enforcement or involved in legal...
Can you get probation for a felony in Maryland?
You could be placed on probation if you are found guilty or plead guilty to a criminal offense in Maryland. It is an alternative to incarceration, which means you will be given a suspended jail sentence and placed on probation. Should you comply with all the terms of...
What kind of evidence can the state get from someone’s phone?
Police officers and state prosecutors are often eager to uncover any evidence that could connect someone to criminal activity. Police officers interrogate people and search personal property in pursuit of evidence. Sometimes, searching electronic devices can yield...
How viable is an insanity defense against criminal charges?
If you are accused of a crime, can you claim you were insane or not in the right state of mind at the time of committing the offense and did not know what you were doing? The short answer is yes. In Maryland, this is known as a plea of not criminally responsible, and...
How prosecutors prove arson
In just a few minutes, a fire can cause extensive damage to property. Arson, the deliberate act of setting fire to another person’s property, can lead to severe legal consequences for those found guilty. With sentences ranging from hefty fines to years in prison, the...
What you need to know about the exclusionary rule
Throughout the history of the United States, legal precedents have formed the foundation of our judicial system. They serve as examples and guidelines for interpreting the U.S. Constitution and are typically established based on the decisions of higher courts. One...
A stop-and-frisk search can be a violation of someone’s rights
Police officers need to conduct searches to find evidence, but they also need to respect the civil rights of the individuals they investigate. The tension between those two obligations may lead to illegal conduct and violations of people's civil rights. The Fourth...