Have you been arrested for a violent crime in Lanham, Maryland? Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys at (301) 262-7005 for a free consultation. Our Lanham violent crimes lawyers have 125 years of combined experience defending clients across Maryland against serious criminal charges. We’ll fight to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Violent crime arrests can be sudden and terrifying, launching you into a complex legal battle where the stakes are incredibly high. The process, from the initial police investigation to potential court proceedings, is designed to favor the prosecution, making immediate, experienced legal counsel absolutely essential. Our firm is committed to being your unwavering advocate, navigating the aggressive legal landscape of Prince George’s County and ensuring your side of the story is professionally and powerfully presented.
Why Choose Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help With a Violent Crime Charge in Lanham, MD?
When your freedom is on the line, you need a law firm with the experience, reputation, and resources to build a powerful defense. At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, we’ve spent decades defending clients in some of Maryland’s most challenging criminal cases—from assault and armed robbery to homicide.
People in Lanham, MD, and across Prince George’s County hire us because:
- Our Lanham criminal defense lawyers have 125 years of combined legal experience
- We are led by former prosecutors who understand how the state builds cases
- Our firm has a proven record of trial success in Maryland state and federal courts
- We give each client personalized attention and clear communication from start to finish
We know how quickly a violent crime charge can change your life. Let us step in early to investigate the facts, challenge the evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome for you. Call us today to speak to our Lanham violent crimes lawyers.
What Qualifies as a Violent Crime in Maryland?
“Violent crime” is an umbrella term under Maryland law that covers a wide range of offenses involving force, threats, or harm to another person. These crimes are among the most aggressively prosecuted in the state and often carry mandatory prison sentences.
Violent crime charges in Maryland include:
- Assault and aggravated assault
- Armed robbery and carjacking
- Murder, manslaughter, and attempted homicide
- Kidnapping and false imprisonment
- Sex crimes, like sexual assault and rape
- Domestic violence and strangulation offenses
- Weapons violations involving intent to harm
If you’re facing one of these charges, it’s essential to work with a Lanham criminal defense attorney who understands the Maryland Criminal Code and the local court system.
What Are the Penalties for Violent Crimes in Maryland?
The penalties for violent crimes in Maryland vary by offense, but they’re always severe. Many carry mandatory minimum sentences, meaning judges cannot reduce your punishment below a set number of years.
For example:
- First-degree assault – A felony that can result in a prison sentence of up to 25 years. This charge typically involves an intent to cause serious physical injury or the use of a firearm.
- Armed robbery – Conviction can lead to a prison sentence of up to 20 years, reflecting the elevated danger posed by the use of a weapon during a robbery.
- Carjacking with a deadly weapon – An extremely grave offense in Maryland, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to 30 years. This crime involves the forcible taking of a motor vehicle while armed, presenting a significant threat to public safety.
- Second-degree murder – A felony that can result in a prison sentence of up to 40 years. This charge typically applies when there is an intent to cause serious bodily harm, but without the premeditation or deliberation characteristic of first-degree murder, or in cases of reckless indifference to human life.
- First-degree murder – The most severe homicide charge in Maryland, reserved for killings that are premeditated, deliberate, and willful. A conviction for first-degree murder carries a sentence of life imprisonment, which may or may not include the possibility of parole, depending on the specific circumstances and judicial findings.
A Lanham criminal defense attorney can explain the nuances of these charges and help you build a defense to protect your rights. Understanding the specific details of each charge and potential defenses is critical when facing accusations of violence in Maryland.
Collateral Consequences for a Violent Crime Conviction in Maryland
Beyond the direct criminal penalties, a violent crime conviction in Maryland can have far-reaching “collateral consequences” that impact nearly every aspect of your life long after your sentence is served.
These can include:
- Employment difficulties: Many employers conduct background checks, and a violent felony conviction can make it difficult to secure or maintain employment, especially in fields requiring licenses or working with vulnerable populations.
- Housing restrictions: Landlords often run criminal background checks, which can lead to denial of rental applications or eviction.
- Educational barriers: Admission to colleges, universities, or trade schools may be denied, and access to financial aid can be limited.
- Loss of civil rights: You may lose the right to vote, the right to own firearms, and the right to serve on a jury.
- Professional license suspensions/revocations: For licensed professionals (e.g., doctors, nurses, lawyers, teachers), a violent crime conviction can result in the suspension or revocation of their professional licenses.
- Immigration consequences: For non-citizens, a violent crime conviction can lead to deportation or denial of re-entry into the United States.
- Social stigma: A criminal record can carry a significant social stigma, affecting personal relationships and community standing.
- Child custody and visitation issues: A conviction can negatively impact child custody arrangements and visitation rights.
Understanding these profound and lasting consequences is crucial when facing violent crime charges. A Lanham violent crimes attorney can explain how these collateral consequences might apply to your specific situation and can work to mitigate their impact.
How Can a Lanham Violent Crimes Lawyer Help Me?
At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, we know that the prosecution’s case isn’t always as strong as it looks.
Our Lanham violent crime attorneys can:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into your arrest, any interrogation, and the state’s evidence
- Challenge constitutional violations, such as illegal searches or coerced confessions
- Work with forensic and psychological experts to support your defense
- Explore opportunities for reduced charges or dismissal before trial
- Present a compelling case to a judge or jury if your case goes to trial
We tailor every defense strategy to the facts of your case and will keep you informed at every stage of the process.
What Defenses to Violent Crime Charges Are Available?
Even in high-stakes cases, there are often multiple defenses that can lead to reduced charges or even outright acquittal. A skilled legal team will meticulously examine every detail of your case to identify the most effective strategies.
Depending on the specific facts, we may argue:
- Self-defense or defense of others: This defense asserts that you used necessary and reasonable force to protect yourself or another person from imminent harm.
- Lack of intent to harm: A key element the prosecution often must prove is your specific intent to cause harm. If we can show that your actions were accidental, unintentional, or the result of a misunderstanding, it can weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Mistaken identity or false accusation: It is not uncommon for individuals to be wrongly accused or identified. We can investigate all aspects of the identification process, including eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, and any other evidence that might suggest a case of mistaken identity. We can also look for motives for false accusations.
- Violation of constitutional rights: If your Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures, your Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination, or your Sixth Amendment right to counsel were violated, any evidence obtained as a result may be inadmissible in court.
- Insufficient or unreliable evidence: The burden of proof lies with the prosecution. If the evidence presented against you is weak, contradictory, or lacks credibility, we will challenge its admissibility and reliability.
- Duress or coercion: Committing acts under extreme pressure or threat, making them not truly responsible for their actions, lacking the free will necessary to be held fully culpable. This involves showing the nature and severity of the threats faced.
Every case is unique, and no two situations are exactly alike. Our experienced attorneys can evaluate all available defenses and craft a tailored legal strategy designed to achieve the best possible result for your specific circumstances.
What Should I Do if I’m Arrested for a Violent Crime in Lanham?
If you’ve been arrested or believe you’re under investigation, take these steps immediately:
- Remain silent. Do not answer questions or give statements to law enforcement without an attorney present.
- Ask for a lawyer. Politely but firmly request legal representation before any questioning.
- Keep case details to yourself. Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney.
Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys as soon as possible. Early intervention can make all the difference. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start protecting your rights and building your defense.
How Long Do I Have to Act?
Time is critical in violent crime cases. Witness memories fade, surveillance footage is erased, and evidence can be lost. Engaging a Maryland criminal defense attorney immediately ensures key evidence is preserved and gives your legal team a head start.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today With Our Lanham Violent Crimes Attorneys
A violent crime charge in Maryland can threaten everything you’ve worked for—but you don’t have to face it alone. Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys are ready to stand up for you and fight back against the state’s case.
We are here to protect your freedom, your future, and your name. Call today to schedule a free and confidential consultation with a Lanham violent crimes lawyer.