Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer

In Maryland, many criminal cases begin with a police report being filed. If charges are filed against you by the police directly, the Office of State’s Attorney becomes involved. If the police do not file charges, a private citizen can do so by filing an application for Statement of Charges with a District Court commissioner.

If probable cause is found, a charging document will be issued. A summons may be sent for you to appear in court, or a warrant can be issued for your arrest. You may then be required to attend a pretrial hearing, and bail conditions may be set.

A skilled criminal defense attorney can argue for your case to be dismissed or negotiate a plea agreement. If an agreement cannot be reached and the case is not dismissed, the case will go to trial, and you may be found guilty or not guilty.

It is essential to hire a criminal defense attorney to handle your case for the following reasons:

• Levels the playing field: Prosecutors are skilled negotiators and trial attorneys. Hiring your own legal team with experts, top-notch trial lawyers, and experienced negotiators can help you reach a fair outcome.

• Skills and resources: If you are facing charges, having a seasoned attorney in your corner can ensure that your case receives the time and attention it deserves. We can investigate what occurred, analyze relevant evidence, and identify any possible defenses.
• Gives you peace of mind: With your freedom at stake, you are undoubtedly feeling overwhelmed and concerned about what’s next. An attorney can worry about the legal aspects of your case while you focus on yourself.

Our criminal defense lawyers are top-rated trial attorneys who are committed to providing the intensity, drive, and skill necessary to produce results for our clients.

Hiring a lawyer is critical if you are innocent.

A lawyer can do the following for you, even if you believe you are innocent:

• Ensure your rights are protected
• Develop a case strategy for you
• Explain the options available to you
• Obtain information that helps prove your innocence
• Help you navigate the often complicated legal system
• Establish a defense
• Help you avoid self-incrimination
• Seek a dismissal of the charges
• Represent you at hearings and at trial if necessary
• Fight to prove that you are innocent

Your freedom and future are at risk if you do not receive the adequate defense you deserve in proving your innocence.

When you decide to hire a criminal defense lawyer, one of the first steps your legal team will take is to conduct a thorough investigation into your criminal case.

Skilled Maryland criminal defense lawyers often investigate a criminal case by doing the following:

• Gathering any available information
• Engaging in the discovery process and reviewing the prosecution’s evidence
• Interviewing witnesses, assessing whether they are credible, and obtaining statements
• Speaking with the defendant
• Reviewing police reports
• Examining the arrest procedure and how evidence was collected
• Consulting with experts

Conducting this investigation helps ensure that your criminal defense lawyer is best prepared to represent you.

Yes, you can be arrested even if the police don’t have an arrest warrant. A warrantless arrest can be made if a police officer witnesses you committing or attempting to commit a felony or misdemeanor. You may also be arrested if a police officer has probable cause to believe that a felony or misdemeanor is being committed within view of the officer and you are reasonably believed to have committed the crime.

Additionally, you could be arrested without a warrant if a police officer has probable cause to believe you committed or attempted to commit a felony, even if not in the presence of the officer.