Category Archives: Criminal Law
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 »
4 Key Stages of the Legal Timeline for Crime Victims in Maryland
Today’s blog entry will focus on the legal timeline for crime victims in Maryland. The following sections will explore four key stages of the post-crime process: Crime Reporting; Case Prosecution; Sentencing Hearing and Post-Sentencing Proceedings. Victim Reports the Crime to Law Enforcement There are certain rights that come into play after the victim reports… Read More »
How Does Maryland Address Juvenile Delinquency?
Under Maryland law, the term juvenile delinquency refers to criminal conduct by children under 18 years old. These children are not subject to the same laws and penalties as adult criminals. But juvenile delinquents can face harsh punishment for engaging in criminal behavior. To help understand the intricacies of juvenile delinquency in Maryland, the… Read More »
Maryland Kicks Off National Crime Victims’ Rights Week
For the 29th year, the state of Maryland held memorial services for crime victims, reported The Baltimore Sun. These memorial services are part of the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which unites individual efforts across the United States. What is the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week? As explained by the Office for Victims of… Read More »
