The Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney in Maryland

When facing criminal charges in Maryland, the importance of having a dedicated criminal defense attorney by your side cannot be overstated. The legal landscape in Maryland, like any other state, is complex and can be overwhelming for individuals without a deep understanding of criminal law. A criminal defense attorney plays a pivotal role in guiding you through this challenging process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome for your case.

Understanding Criminal Charges in Maryland

In Maryland, criminal charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, each carrying its own set of penalties and legal consequences. Misdemeanors, such as petty theft or simple assault, may result in fines, community service, or a short jail sentence. Felonies, on the other hand, involve more severe crimes like armed robbery, drug trafficking, or homicide and can lead to lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. Regardless of the severity of the charge, having a criminal defense attorney is crucial for navigating the legal system.

The legal process in Maryland begins with an arrest, followed by a series of court proceedings that determine the outcome of your case. Without legal representation, you may find it difficult to understand the charges against you, the potential defenses available, and the possible consequences of a conviction. A criminal defense attorney can explain these complexities in plain language, helping you make informed decisions throughout the legal process.

Attorneys Alpert, Berman, and their staff help guide those of us caught up in circumstances that are ultimately under our control … first, by pointing out how to regain some control, then by guiding us so we never have to deal with such situations again (using our own self-determination). I am very happy with my outcome. Andrew Alpert contributes to the field of knowledge and contemporary practice standards based on science. This team is definitely worth it! They worked closely with me, gave me honest and sensible advice, and they really secured a good outcome for me. Highly recommended.”

- Raja S

The Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney

A criminal defense attorney in Maryland serves multiple roles in the defense of their client. From the moment they are retained, they begin working on building a strong defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of the case. This involves a thorough investigation of the facts, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing police reports and other legal documents. The goal is to uncover any inconsistencies or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that can be leveraged in favor of the defendant.

One of the primary responsibilities of a criminal defense attorney is to ensure that their client’s constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process. This includes protecting the right to remain silent, the right to a fair trial, and the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. If any of these rights are violated, the attorney can file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on these violations.

In addition to protecting constitutional rights, a criminal defense attorney also negotiates with prosecutors to seek a favorable outcome for their client. This could involve plea bargaining, where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence. Plea bargains are often used to avoid the uncertainty of a trial and can result in a more lenient penalty than if the case were to go to trial.

Related Videos

Pre-Trial Preparation and Strategy

The pre-trial phase is one of the most critical stages of a criminal case, and a criminal defense attorney’s work during this time can significantly impact the outcome. During this phase, the attorney reviews all evidence that the prosecution intends to use against their client. They may also conduct independent investigations, such as hiring private investigators or consulting with forensic specialists, to challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution.

The attorney will also work on filing pre-trial motions, which can include requests to dismiss the case, suppress evidence, or compel the prosecution to provide additional information. These motions are designed to weaken the prosecution’s case and improve the chances of a favorable outcome for the defendant.

In Maryland, as in other states, the pre-trial process also involves jury selection. A criminal defense attorney plays a crucial role in this process by ensuring that the jury is impartial and free from any biases that could negatively impact their client’s case. The attorney will carefully question potential jurors and may challenge the selection of certain individuals if they believe they cannot be fair and objective.

Trial Representation

If a case proceeds to trial, the role of a criminal defense attorney becomes even more critical. The attorney’s performance during the trial can make the difference between a conviction and an acquittal. During the trial, the attorney will present the defense’s case, cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses, and argue on behalf of their client.

A skilled criminal defense attorney in Maryland will use a variety of strategies to defend their client during the trial. This may include challenging the credibility of the prosecution’s witnesses, presenting alternative theories of the crime, and introducing evidence that supports the defendant’s innocence. The attorney will also deliver opening and closing statements that summarize the defense’s position and aim to persuade the jury to acquit the defendant.

Throughout the trial, the attorney must remain vigilant and responsive to any developments in the case. They may need to adjust their strategy based on new evidence or testimony that arises during the proceedings. The attorney’s ability to think on their feet and adapt to changing circumstances is essential to providing an effective defense.

Verdicts & Settlements

DUI

All Charges Dropped

Found in his parked car with a friend and some open bottles, our client was facing a fourth DUI offense, along with 3 years of prison time and 2 more for probation violation. We didn’t back down in court, and the state dropped all charges after a short recess. Our client did not receive jail time, points, or probation – and he only paid a $50 fine.

DUI

Probationary Deal on a Second Offense

Our client had a .18 BAC in a notoriously heavy-handed jurisdiction, Harford County, where people can easily do 60 days active time on a second offense. Our firm negotiated a plea deal for our client that achieved no conviction, no points, and no jail. The Judge was incredibly impressed with the mitigation package we presented on behalf of client, who was very pleased with the results.

DUI

No Jail Sentence

Our firm secured a no-jail sentence for our client from a very tough Judge in Frederick County. Our client blew a .20 on a third offense, and the prosecutor was asking for active jail time. The Judge said the mitigation package we devised for the client made all the difference and led him to ignore the prosecutor’s jail recommendation in favor of just probation.

DUI

Charge Reduced

One of our DUI clients was facing up to 1 year in jail if convicted, plus $1000 in fines, 12 points on her driving record, and 3 years of supervised probation. By negotiating with the prosecution, we were able to secure a much better result. Our client did not receive a conviction, points, or jail time – instead, she paid only a few hundred dollars and received 1 year of unsupervised probation.

DUI

Not Guilty

After his fifth DUI charge, our client was facing up to 3 years in prison for a conviction. By showing that the field sobriety test result was affected by the client’s disability, our defense attorneys were able to secure a “not guilty” verdict on all counts, after the jury deliberated for only 12 minutes.

DUI

Probationary Deal on 6th Offense

After being arrested for their sixth DUI, our client faced 3 years in jail, up to $3,000 in fines, and a system inclined to award maximum penalties to repeat offenders. Our team managed to secure a probationary deal with no jail time for this client.

View More Results

Sentencing and Post-Conviction Representation

In the event of a conviction, a criminal defense attorney continues to play a vital role in the sentencing phase. The attorney will advocate for a fair and reasonable sentence, arguing for mitigating factors that could reduce the severity of the penalty. In some cases, the attorney may be able to negotiate alternatives to incarceration, such as probation, community service, or participation in rehabilitation programs.

Even after sentencing, a criminal defense attorney can assist with post-conviction matters, such as filing an appeal or seeking a reduction in the sentence. The appeals process is complex and requires a deep understanding of appellate law, making the role of the attorney indispensable in seeking to overturn a conviction or reduce the sentence.

The Importance of Legal Representation in Maryland

The criminal justice system in Maryland is designed to ensure that individuals accused of crimes receive a fair trial and that their rights are protected. However, navigating this system without legal representation can be daunting and may result in unfavorable outcomes. A criminal defense attorney provides the knowledge, experience, and advocacy needed to navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible result for their client.

Having a criminal defense attorney is not just about having someone to represent you in court; it is about having an advocate who is committed to protecting your rights and fighting for your future. Whether you are facing minor charges or serious felonies, the stakes are high, and the consequences of a conviction can be life-altering. With a criminal defense attorney by your side, you can have confidence that your case is being handled with the utmost care and diligence.

Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Attorney

When selecting a criminal defense attorney in Maryland, it is important to choose someone with a deep understanding of the state’s legal system and a proven track record of success in defending clients. The attorney should be someone who listens to your concerns, understands the nuances of your case, and is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome.

Communication is also key when working with a criminal defense attorney. The attorney should be accessible and responsive, keeping you informed about the progress of your case and explaining any developments in a way that is easy to understand. Trust and confidence in your attorney are essential, as they will be your advocate throughout the legal process.

A criminal defense attorney’s role extends beyond the courtroom. They provide guidance and support during one of the most challenging times in your life, helping you navigate the legal system and make informed decisions about your future. Their dedication to protecting your rights and securing your freedom is what makes their role so vital in the Maryland criminal justice system.

If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges in Maryland, it is imperative to seek the assistance of a knowledgeable and dedicated criminal defense attorney. The consequences of a criminal conviction can be severe, affecting your personal and professional life for years to come. Alpert Schreyer, LLC is committed to providing the highest level of legal representation to individuals facing criminal charges in Maryland. Our team of experienced attorneys understands the complexities of the criminal justice system and is dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you navigate this challenging time.