Category Archives: Criminal Law
What Rights Do Sexual Assault Victims Have in Maryland?
The State of Maryland provides certain special rights to victims of sexual assault crimes, including immediate transportation and free medical treatment. These special rights exist in addition to other legal privileges, such as attending court proceedings, giving statements in court, or asking for restitution. Before discussing specific details, however, it will be helpful to… Read More »
Prince George County Traffic Stop May Lead to Police Misconduct Claim
A 24-year-old Maryland man injured during a traffic stop in Prince George County may file a police misconduct claim against the arresting officers, according to an article by The Washington Post. The traffic stop in question occurred on October 17th at approximately 5:30 p.m. Near the 4000 block of Wheeler Road in Oxon Hill,… Read More »
Survey of Marijuana Laws & Penalties in Maryland
Outside of narrowly constructed exceptions, it a criminal offense to possess or distribute marijuana in the State of Maryland. Any person who disregards these laws can face incarceration and steep monetary fines. But the exact nature of the criminal penalties fluctuates based on the type of offense, quantity of marijuana in question, and number… Read More »
What is the Difference Between Murder & Manslaughter in Maryland?
While murder and manslaughter crimes both result in the death of another person, there are subtle differences between these offenses under Maryland law. When a person intends to kill or inflict severe harm, it generally qualifies as murder. Though depending on the circumstances, the perpetrator could face charges for murder in the first or… Read More »
How Does Maryland Define & Penalize Theft Crimes?
The State of Maryland has stringent laws against theft crimes that deprive the rightful owner of their property or services. Any person who violates these laws will likely face criminal charges that are punishable by time in prison and steep fines. Though the applicable penalties can fluctuate based on the value of stolen goods… Read More »
How Do Protective & Peace Orders Help Maryland Crime Victims?
Protective and peace orders allow the Maryland courts to act in the interest of crime victims and other abused individuals. Essentially, these orders exist as a legal mechanism to halt further crimes or abuse. Though eligibility for either a protective or peace order depends on the relationship between the perpetrator and victim, if any…. Read More »
Oversight Failure Leads to Expiration of 76 Baltimore Police Misconduct Cases
Since 2016, Baltimore law enforcement officials have lapsed in their investigation of 76 potential police misconduct cases, according to an article by The Baltimore Sun. As internal affairs did not investigate these misconduct cases within the required one-year timeline, the officers involved escaped without a finding of guilt or innocence. Back in 2017, the… Read More »
What is Restitution & How Does it Help Maryland Crime Victims?
Restitution is a type of compensation payment available to certain crime victims in Maryland. When a victim suffers harm or injury due to another person’s criminal or delinquent act, the Maryland courts may require restitution to compensate for the loss. Though Maryland law restricts restitution to specific eligible parties in limited circumstances. Who is… Read More »
Examining Maryland Handgun Laws & Penalties
Given the dangerousness and ease of concealment of handguns, the State of Maryland has laws in place to protect public safety. Any person who violates these handgun laws is guilty of a criminal offense and subject to serious penalties, including fines and prison time. Consequently, it is vital for any handgun owner to understand… Read More »
What are the Maryland Laws Against Distributing Illegal Drugs?
In the interest of public health and safety, it is a crime in the State of Maryland to distribute illegal drugs. Referred to legally as controlled substances, illegal drugs generally have addictive qualities and can result in death in overdose situations. Accordingly, it is unlawful to engage in drug dealing or a similar effort… Read More »
