Maryland law defines carjacking as obtaining unauthorized possession or control of a motor vehicle from another person, against that person's will, by force, violence or putting that person in fear through intimidation or threat of force or violence. This means that...
Year: 2024
The consequences of porch piracy
Porch piracy, the act of stealing deliveries from someone's doorstep, has seen an increase along with the surge in online shopping. This offense is no small matter. Mail theft is a federal crime and soon, potentially, a felony. Across the country, authorities are...
DUI repeat offenders and the escalating penalties they face
Driving under the influence (DUI) of either alcohol or a controlled substance in Maryland is a criminal offense that you should never take lightly. Even for a first offense, you face a $1,000 fine, a 60-day license suspension, up to two months of jail time and eight...
The legal repercussions of arson: penalties and defense
Arson is a serious crime with devastating consequences. Beyond the immediate property damage, fires can endanger lives, disrupt communities and leave emotional scars. Understanding the potential penalties and available defenses is crucial if facing arson charges. What...
Controlled cannabis cultivation: Maryland’s laws on growing marijuana
In Maryland, it’s legal for persons to use marijuana for recreational purposes – with some restrictions. For instance, it’s okay to possess up to an ounce and a half of cannabis for personal use. But once someone goes over this legal limit, they can face criminal...
When is theft a felony offense in Maryland?
Theft is a crime that can vary significantly in severity, and in Maryland, the line between a misdemeanor and a felony theft can hinge on several important factors. Understanding the distinctions is crucial if you or someone you know is facing theft charges. The value...
Boating under the influence: Maryland’s laws and penalties
Many people understand the dangers and legal consequences of drunk driving, but these laws also apply to boating. In Maryland, operating a boat while impaired is a serious issue. Understanding the specifics of this law and the potential consequences is crucial. How...
A closer look at the legal blood alcohol limit
Alcohol intoxication can severely impair driving, endangering the driver and anyone else on or near the road. This is why driving under the influence (DUI) is a criminal offense in Maryland and in other U.S. states. But how exactly can a police officer determine if a...
Maryland’s false prescription law
Like other U.S. states, Maryland keeps a list of controlled substances considered illegal to possess and use. These drugs and other substances are highly abusable and addiction-forming, which is why the state has severe legal consequences for anyone caught using or...
Theft by deception in Maryland: A distinct category of theft
The criminal offense of theft is defined as the taking of another person’s property with the intent to deprive said person of the item. While most forms of theft are straightforward, such as pickpocketing, burglary and robbery, there’s also theft by deception – the...