Category Archives: Criminal Law
How Does Maryland Differentiate Between Various Assault Crimes?
The crime of assault in Maryland come into play when a perpetrator violates the personal safety or bodily integrity of a victim. It is also possible for verbal threats to rise to the level of an assault crime, especially if the victim fears imminent danger. That being said, there are several different types of… Read More »
How Does Maryland Regulate the Use of Handguns?
Recognizing that a large number of violent crimes stem from the use of handguns, Maryland law regulates how a person can wear, carry or transport these firearms. These regulations are designed to preserve peace and tranquility throughout the state as well as protect public rights and liberties. Definition of a Handgun in Maryland The… Read More »
Maryland Laws Against Threats of Mass Violence
School shootings and other public acts of mass violence can happen across the United States. When someone commits an act of mass of violence — or even just threatens to do so — it puts a severe strain on government resources. Law enforcement officers must arrive at the scene and mitigate the danger. Paramedics… Read More »
How Does Maryland Address Assault and Battery?
It is fairly common to hear confusion surrounding assault and battery crimes. At common law, the term assault generally refers to the threat of force. An assault victim has a reasonable fear that the offender will cause harm or injury. Assault does not require physical contact. On the other hand, battery does require physical… Read More »
What is Criminally Negligent Manslaughter by Vehicle or Vessel?
With so many drivers on the road every day, car accidents are unfortunately common. In most cases, thankfully, these accidents are limited to lesser fender-benders, resulting in minor property damage. The drivers involved simply exchange their insurance information and go about their business. In the most extreme cases — where an accident leads to… Read More »
What is the Difference Between DUI & DWI in Maryland?
Drunk driving is a serious problem in Maryland and across the United States. That is why Maryland prohibits anyone from driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or driving while impaired (DWI) by alcohol or drugs. Even though these offenses are similar, there are subtle differences between Maryland laws and penalties for DUI and… Read More »
Examining the Crime of Extortion in Maryland
The popular conception of extortion seems fixated on organized crime, with mafia or gang members intimidating everyday people into unlawful deals. If anyone resists, the criminals respond with force or threats of force. Eventually, everyone seems to give in to these criminal demands. That is why Maryland enforces extortion laws to prohibit this type… Read More »
Negligent, Reckless and Aggressive Driving Laws in Maryland
In order to combat serious car and truck accidents, Maryland law makes it unlawful to engage in negligent, reckless or aggressive driving. To understand the boundaries of and differences between these three traffic offenses, the following sections will explore important considerations for each offense. Negligent Driving in Maryland The definition of negligent driving appears… Read More »
Possession of Illegal Drugs in Maryland
The subject for exploration today centers on the possession of illegal drugs and other controlled substances in Maryland. To gain a full appreciation of this legal issue, the following sections will examine key definitions and penalties for this offense. Possession of Illegal Drugs Under Code of Maryland Section 5–601, it is illegal to obtain… Read More »
Criminal Case vs. Civil Lawsuit for Crime Victims in Maryland
Criminal cases and civil lawsuits are not the same. In light of this, the following examines six differences between criminal cases and civil lawsuits for crime victims in Maryland. Purpose The purpose of a criminal case is to punish the perpetrator for violating state criminal law. The perpetrator is responsible to the state, not… Read More »
