A felony is one of the most serious criminal offenses and carries significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines, and long-term consequences. In Maryland, felonies are crimes that cause substantial harm to individuals, property, or society. Learning about the implications of a felony charge is crucial, as it can impact many areas of your life.
Call our law office today at (301) 262-7005 to schedule a free consultation with one of our Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys.
Defining a Felony
In Maryland, felonies are considered more severe than misdemeanors and are typically outlined in state statutes. Felonies often involve violent actions, substantial financial harm, or risks to public safety.
Some common examples of felonies in Maryland include:
- Homicide
- Armed robbery
- Sexual assault
- Drug trafficking
- Arson
- Kidnapping
Felonies are not limited to violent crimes. White-collar crimes, such as embezzlement or large-scale fraud, can also result in felony charges.
Felonies vs. Misdemeanors
Generally speaking, the distinction between felonies and misdemeanors lies in the severity of the offense and the associated penalties.
Misdemeanors are usually punishable by up to one year in jail. They typically involve less serious crimes, such as petty theft or disorderly conduct. Felonies are most often punishable by more than one year in prison. They include serious crimes, such as violent offenses, high-value theft, or drug trafficking.
While both types of crimes can impact your life, the long-term effects of a felony are much more significant.
Penalties for Felony Convictions in Maryland
Felony convictions in Maryland can lead to severe penalties, which vary depending on the crime and its circumstances.
Common penalties include:
- Prison sentences: Felonies often result in prison terms ranging from one year to life, with some crimes carrying mandatory minimum sentences.
- Fines: Felony fines can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Probation: Conditions may include community service, mandatory counseling, or regular check-ins with a probation officer.
- Restitution: Offenders may be required to pay victims for financial losses caused by the crime.
Beyond these penalties, felony convictions come with collateral consequences, such as:
- Loss of voting rights while incarcerated
- Difficulty securing employment or housing
- Loss of professional licenses
- Ineligibility for certain government benefits
These long-term effects make it essential to fight felony charges vigorously.
Maryland’s Felony Laws
Unlike some states, Maryland does not categorize felonies into distinct classes. Instead, the penalties are tailored to each specific crime. The severity of punishment depends on factors such as the nature of the offense and whether aggravating circumstances are present.
Examples include:
- First-degree murder: Punishable by life imprisonment without the possibility of parole
- Drug trafficking: Sentences depend on the type and quantity of drugs, with penalties often involving substantial prison time and fines
- Armed robbery: Can result in up to 20 years of imprisonment, particularly if a weapon was involved
Understanding the specific laws surrounding your charges is crucial for building an effective defense.
Defending Against Felony Charges
A felony charge does not guarantee a conviction. Many defenses can help you avoid harsh penalties or even have charges dismissed.
Common defenses include:
- Lack of evidence: Challenging the sufficiency of the prosecution’s evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
- Constitutional violations: Demonstrating that law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation, such as conducting an illegal search or seizure
- Self-defense: Arguing that your actions were necessary to protect yourself or others
- Mistaken identity: Showing that the prosecution has the wrong person accused of the crime
- Alibi: Providing evidence that you were not present at the scene of the crime
The success of a defense strategy depends on the details of the case and the quality of legal representation.
Why You Need a Lawyer
Felony cases are complex, and the consequences of a conviction can be life-altering. Hiring an experienced Maryland criminal defense attorney can greatly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
An attorney can help by:
- Evaluating your case: Reviewing the evidence and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument
- Negotiating: Working to reduce charges or secure a plea agreement
- Preparing for trial: Gathering evidence, questioning witnesses, and building a strong defense strategy
- Advising you: Ensuring you understand your rights and options at every stage of the legal process
A skilled lawyer can also navigate the Maryland legal system effectively, advocating for your best interests every step of the way.
Contact a Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney for Help
If you’re facing felony charges in Maryland, it’s crucial to take immediate action. A felony conviction can affect your freedom, finances, and future opportunities. Working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact a Maryland criminal defense attorney from Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys today at (301) 262-7005 to discuss your case. A trusted lawyer can guide you through the legal process, provide expert advice, and build a strong defense on your behalf. Don’t face felony charges alone—get the help you need to secure your future.