The Attorneys at Ortega Law could not be more excited to see Maryland courts begin to reopen in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chief Judge Ellen Barbera’s May 22, 2020 Executive Order outlines the plan for the full reopening of Maryland’s courts by October 2020. Maryland courts are currently on Phase One of a Five Phase plan, with expectations…
Firm News
Juvenile Review During the COVID-19 Pandemic
For those involved in the Maryland court system and its operation, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many delays and uncertainties. Despite the confusion, there is finally hope on the horizon for relief of some detained juveniles as the guidelines for the current state of emergency continue to evolve. The attorneys at Ortega Law are enthusiastic to use this opportunity to…
Facts You Need to Know about Criminal Law
The justice system can be confusing and complicated, especially for those who aren’t top criminal defense attorneys. As a result, many people come to believe assumptions as facts, which can cause serious problems when they have a run-in with the law. Here are straight truths to help you avoid making a situation with the authorities worse. Fact #1: You Can…
What You Need to Know about Filing a Criminal Appeal
Do you and your criminal defense attorney from Anne Arundel County disagree with the outcome of your trial? Then you might want to consider appealing your case. A criminal appeal is a complex process where the court of appeals reviews a criminal case to make sure the proceedings followed the law. The appeal is based on written records of the case, including…
The Importance of Preserving Evidence in a Criminal Case
In the pursuit of a criminal case, evidence is the foundation upon which both sides build their respective arguments. During the investigation into a crime, great care must be taken to collect, preserve, and record evidence that could be critical in establishing the facts surrounding a criminal case. However, the importance of the evidence doesn’t end after the trial. As…
Did You Get a DUI? Understand What Happened
Getting pulled over and facing a charge of driving under the influence can happen quickly. One minute you are driving along, maybe on your way home, and the next minute you see the flashing lights behind you. Now, you are meeting with the best DUI lawyer in Anne Arundel County wondering how you got to this point. This is a…
Comparing Adult and Juvenile Criminal Court
When a person is charged with a crime, it can represent an extremely difficult time for the accused that’s rife with uncertainty and trepidation. If you’ve been accused of any crime, the first step you should take is finding an attorney who can help you formulate a defense to the charges against you. An attorney will be your ally who…
Charged with a Crime: Do You Need a Lawyer?
Getting charged with a crime can severely impact your entire life. The consequences can be dire, and to ensure the best outcome for your case, you may need some help from a professional. When you are charged with a crime, it is always a good idea to hire a lawyer work on your case. Though you may believe that you…
What Happens in a Juvenile Case?
Juvenile legal cases represent a special section of criminal law that deals specifically with those who fall below a minimum age to be tried as adults. Because of their age and minor status, juvenile offenders receive special consideration under juvenile law, and the penalties are not as stringent as those for comparable crimes committed by adults. The minimum age for…
Understanding the Dos and Don’ts after Getting Arrested
Getting arrested is a difficult situation for anyone. You might feel like you don’t deserve this type of treatment which could leave you angry. Venting your anger or frustration while in custody could result in making the problem worse than it already is. Handling yourself well will allow you to limit the amount of trouble that you find yourself in.…