Drug charges in Maryland can range from minor to very serious. The penalties depend on the type of drug, the amount, and what you were doing with it. If you understand the different kinds of offenses, you’ll know what to expect if you ever face one. Possession of a...
Year: 2025
Can DUI checkpoints be challenged in court?
You might assume DUI checkpoints are legal in every instance, but that isn’t the case. While Maryland permits them under certain conditions, courts require law enforcement to follow strict procedural standards. If those rules aren’t followed, you have the right to...
How does Maryland handle repeat offenders of domestic violence?
Domestic violence is a serious offense in Maryland, and repeat offenders face even tougher consequences under the law. If you've been accused of domestic violence more than once, the state takes that into account when deciding penalties, protective measures, and the...
Bar fights: when a scuffle becomes a felony
After a long week at work, it sometimes feels good to kick back with your buddies and hit a few bars. Everyone is having fun, trading stories and having some laughs. But sometimes, a fun night out with friends can go wrong. It may be a perceived insult or a...
Why is the presumption of innocence so important?
In the U.S. legal system, anyone accused of a criminal offense is considered innocent until proven guilty. This is called the presumption of innocence. This means that the state must prove that the accused committed the crime before any punishment can be given. The...
Arson: Do prosecutors have to prove intent?
Arson is one of the most serious property crimes that is prosecuted in Maryland. As a result, those who have been charged with this offense risk severe criminal penalties if they don’t present a strong legal defense. If you are facing an arson charge, one key issue...
2 more ways prescription drugs could land you in legal trouble
Prescription drugs are part of life for many people. For some people, they are a daily need, while for others, it’s occasional. We recently discussed how sharing your prescription drugs with someone else has the potential for you both to face criminal charges. Yet...
What role does “reasonable suspicion” play in drunk driving stops?
Police officers need to have a valid reason to initiate a traffic stop. In some cases, this might because they notice a traffic violation, but that’s not always present. They may notice symptoms of drunk driving, which is known as reasonable suspicion. Reasonable...
What are Miranda rights and when do they apply?
You've probably heard the phrase, "You have the right to remain silent," on TV crime shows. That line comes from your Miranda rights. These rights protect you during police questioning, but they don’t apply in every situation. Understanding your Miranda rights The...
How does a felony affect your record?
A felony conviction in Maryland can significantly affect various aspects of your life. Whether you're facing a felony charge or have already been convicted, understanding how it impacts your record is important. In Maryland, a felony conviction can follow you long...

