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...
Despite casual mentions in jests, stalking is no laughing matter. In Maryland, stalking involves intentionally approaching or following a specific person to terrify or cause them emotional distress. It can take on many forms, from taking photos to watching and...
Drug addiction is hell to overcome. It can slowly creep back in even if you try your hardest to stop. However, drug use carries the risk of overdose and death, and many incidents go unreported because witnesses are afraid of going to jail. Seeking help for drug...
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…