That Misdemeanor DUI/DWI Charge Can Result in Very Serious Consequences

Here in Maryland, DUIs and DWIs are misdemeanors. This does not mean you shouldn’t take these charges very, very seriously – especially if you are facing a second or third offense. Understanding the potential consequences, and jail time, is important if you have been charged with a drunk driving offense. Driving under the influence of…

Read More

Online “Pranks” Can Lead to an Arrest

While they may be fun or seem harmless to the poster, some online pranks can harm other people. They can also use up valuable police resources until the police determine what is true and what is false. A few recent examples illustrate that youngsters, teenagers, and adults of all ages need to understand that social…

Read More

How to Talk to Your Children About Consent, Before It’s Too Late

As the new school term starts in both college and high school, parents and students need to discuss what type of sexual activity might lead to criminal charges. Parents of students who don’t attend college should also discuss with their children what sexual activity may be illegal. While there are many things to discuss such…

Read More

Is Driving Under the Influence a Felony in Maryland?

In most cases, DUI offenses by themselves are misdemeanors. DUIs may become felonies if additional circumstances add to the severity of the offense, such as if someone is killed. Whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, there are often defenses. The police may not be able to prove that you were intoxicated or…

Read More

You Can Be Arrested at Any Time for Felony Assault in Maryland

Did you know you can be arrested for a felony assault at any time here in Maryland, no matter when it occurred? The reason for this is because Maryland has no statute of limitations on felony grade assault crimes. But what is a statute of limitations? In the realm of criminal law, statutes of limitations…

Read More

There’s No Such Thing as a Marijuana Field Sobriety Test

Field sobriety tests (FSTs) have long been utilized by law enforcement to detect alcohol impairment in drivers. However, with the recent legalization of marijuana in Maryland, concerns arise regarding the potential use of similar tests for marijuana impairment on drivers. Given the flaws in the long-used field sobriety tests for alcohol impairment, we should question…

Read More

Maryland Should Record All Interrogations

Not only Maryland, but all states should mandate recording of all interrogations. It is shocking, with the accessibility and ease of recording technology today, that such a serious legal matter as a criminal interrogation cannot be recorded for reference purposes; but this is the reality in the United States today. According to an October 2022…

Read More

My Child Is Facing a DUI Charge in Maryland. What Do I Do?

Finding out that your child is facing a DUI charge is a stressful situation for any parent. Regardless of their age, if this is your child’s first criminal charge, they are likely reeling from the incident. From future implications to social stigma, this event can have a significant impact on their self-image during key developmental…

Read More

The Collateral Consequences of a Drug Conviction

A drug conviction carries much more than just immediate legal penalties. Beyond things like fines, probation, or prison time, individuals convicted of drug crimes can face what’s called “collateral consequences.” These can have a significant effect on one’s life. Collateral consequences, which can extend long beyond a direct sentence, can affect various aspects of your…

Read More

Understanding Your Miranda Rights: What You Should Know

If you find yourself in a criminal situation, it is crucial to understand – and assert – your rights to protect yourself. One of the most fundamental rights you have in the United States is Miranda Rights, and it is vital you know what these are. These rights, established by the landmark Supreme Court case…

Read More

Understanding the Elements of a Strong Defense Strategy

When facing criminal charges, a strong defense strategy is essential for protecting your rights, ensuring a fair trial, and achieving the best possible outcome. A well-crafted defense strategy takes into account the specific circumstances of your case, examines the evidence, and aims to challenge the prosecution’s case. Today we want to discuss the elements of…

Read More

Myths and Misconceptions About Ignition Interlock Devices

Ignition interlock devices (IIDs) are a tool used by authorities in preventing drunk driving incidents and improving road safety. However, certain misconceptions and myths surrounding IIDs can hinder their acceptance and effectiveness. If you are facing using an IID in your vehicle, it is important to understand the truth behind what they are, in order…

Read More

How Your Mental Health Can Affect a Criminal Charge

Many states still struggle with identifying and treating mental illness of those who commit crimes rather than resorting to incarceration—and Maryland is unfortunately one of them. In this day and age, most people have become aware of how the mental health status of a defendant can significantly impact the outcome of their criminal charges. Despite…

Read More

What You Should Know About Federal Drug Charges

Most drug possession crimes in Maryland are prosecuted at the state level. However, they can sometimes be bumped to federal charges in certain scenarios. Something like getting caught with drugs while on federal property can result in serious legal consequences, including hefty fines and long prison sentences. When it comes to battling a drug charge…

Read More

Marijuana Can Cost You Your Security Clearance

Working in certain roles for the federal government requires you to apply for security clearance, as many positions may involve access to classified information. The process of vetting employees who apply for clearance is designed to ensure that those who work in these positions are trustworthy and reliable. Even after you receive security clearance, you…

Read More

How Will a DUI Affect My Car Insurance?

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Maryland, and it can come with serious consequences as well. Apart from legal troubles and hefty fines, a DUI conviction can also have a significant impact on your car insurance rates. After a driver has been caught with at least an .08% blood-alcohol concentration (BAC)…

Read More

Can You Challenge Blood Test Results for DUI?

Dealing with a DUI charge can be an extremely stressful experience. One mistake of getting behind the wheel after a few drinks can cost you months of legal troubles—and maybe even your freedom. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there were 11,654 people killed in car crashes where at least 1 driver…

Read More

Woman’s DUI Stop Leads to Lifesaving Brain Surgery

Last December, some police got a call about a suspected drunk driver. They did find an erratic driver, and what they would do next would change the driver’s life – and for the better. However, this isn’t a story of someone with an alcohol dependency hitting rock bottom. In fact, it’s a story of someone…

Read More

Rap Artist Afroman Sued by Police Who Raided His Home

After police wrongly raided his home last summer, rap artist Afroman decided to make light of his losses and release an album and videos using home footage of the situation. Now, he’s facing charges from seven of the officers involved in the raid, citing invasion of privacy and public humiliation. What kind of recourse do…

Read More

What Makes a Traffic Stop Legal?

If you have ever been behind the wheel, you most likely have experienced the fear or worry of being pulled over or have actually had a police officer pull you over. This may lead you to wonder what makes a traffic stop legal or illegal, which is a typical curiosity when these instances occur. The…

Read More

When Is Video Admissible in a Criminal Case?

It has become very common for people to record important things happening in their lives. In fact, you cannot go anywhere without seeing someone pulling out their camera or cell phone to record something. Therefore, when a crime is occurring either to you or to another person, one of your first impulses may be to…

Read More

There’s No Such Thing as a DUI Loophole

In Maryland, lawmakers and families are trying to close a “loophole” in the state’s DUI law. They want to close this loophole because they do not believe their family members who were killed in drunk driving accidents received the justice they deserved, and they say that closing the loophole will save lives. The reason why…

Read More