Category Archives: Criminal Law
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 »
Exploring 4 Versions of DUI & DWI in Maryland
Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI) are reckless behaviors that cause deaths, injuries, and property damage across Maryland each year. It does not matter if a driver consumes alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. When a person loses the ability to control their vehicle and obey the rules of… Read More »
Virginia Laws Against & Penalties for Destructive Devices
Across the State of Maryland, it is a criminal offense to possess, use, or otherwise detonate destructive devices. Under Maryland law, the term destructive device can apply to mechanism capable of delivering an explosive, incendiary, or toxic substance. These devices have similar characteristics to military hardware, sharing the same capability to inflict maximum physical… Read More »
Maryland Man Faces Criminal Charges for Illegal Drugs & Eluding Police
The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office arrested and charged a Maryland man for several criminal and traffic offenses after an extended police chase, according to an article by 47ABC. This incident occurred at approximately 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 4th. That is when deputies observed that the 43-year-old Maryland man was driving on a suspended… Read More »
