White Marsh Criminal Defense Lawyer

White Marsh, Maryland is located in Baltimore County. It is a bustling community that holds numerous shopping plaza’s and eateries, the main one being White Marsh Mall. With all that is occurring in White Marsh, one can find themselves in trouble. If you have been charged, an experienced White Marsh criminal attorney can help.

Common Offenses in White Marsh

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are very common, but can often be a hassle to straighten out. If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident there can be many different consequences. It is important to gather all information possible starting with the date and time of the collision, insurance information and personal information of the other drivers if any. Depending on the outcome of the accident, there could be a civil or criminal case that results. Do not go to court alone, call Rice, Murtha & Psoras to ensure your best interests are protected.

Robbery

In Maryland, Title 3 of the criminal code includes the offenses of robbery, robbery with a dangerous weapon and carjacking. Robbery is a violent crime, so it is prosecuted severely. Robbery is similar to theft, except that robbery involves violence against a person. When convicted of a robbery a defendant can face up to 15 years in prison. Under Title 3, armed robbery and carjacking are also felonies that carry severe punishments. If convicted of carjacking, the defendant can face a maximum sentence of thirty years in prison. If you are facing a charge of robbery, do not hesitate to call an experienced White Marsh lawyer who can help.

Drug Crimes

Under the umbrella of drug crimes fall several offenses including possession, distribution and paraphernalia possession. Defending drug charges can get complicated when evaluating the process of the arrest and search and negotiating sentencing.

Depending on the drug confiscated and the use of the drug, whether for personal use or distribution, can alter the punishments. If found in possession of marijuana the penalty is a maximum of one year and a fine of $1,000.

If found in possession of all other drugs the penalties increase to a maximum of four years in prison and a possible fine of $25,000. Drug charges can greatly affect one’s job prospects, so it is important to fight the charges. Call an experienced White Marsh criminal attorney for a free consultation.

Court Houses in Baltimore County

Once you are facing charges, it is important to know where you will be defending yourself. Baltimore County has three different District Court locations, Towson, Essex, and Catonsville.

Their hours of operations are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Towson Courthouse has a public garage next to the courthouse, meanwhile, the Essex and Catonsville locations have free parking at the site.

The Circuit Court is also located in Towson, which is just a short drive from White Marsh. The Circuit Court shares jurisdiction with the District Court over civil matters where the dispute is between $5,000 and $30,000 and all domestic violence petitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and felony?

In Maryland, felonies and misdemeanors are two classifications of crimes. Misdemeanors are less serious, consisting of minor offenses, such as DUI or minor drug offenses. Misdemeanors are typically punishable by substantial fines and jail time normally consisting of less than a year. 

On the other hand, felonies are more serious crimes including murder and aggravated theft and rape. Those convicted of felonies face more substantial fines and prison time.

Many crimes could be a misdemeanor or felony depending on how the prosecution charges and the circumstances surrounding the case. No matter the charge or offense, a defense attorney is essential to your defense.

How are punishments determined for the crime I am charged with?

Once convicted of a crime, there are sentencing guidelines that outline what punishments the defendant is to receive. The sentencing guidelines consist of a minimum and maximum sentence for each crime. Judges, not juries determine the punishment unless it is a capital punishment case. When determining the punishment, judges will often look at aggravating and mitigating circumstances, such as is the defendant a first-time offender versus a repeated offender and was anyone hurt. If you have been involved in criminal charges call a skilled criminal attorney today.

What steps should I take if I am involved in a car accident?

If you have been involved in a car accident, often the first thing that comes to mind is not to call an attorney. There will be police reports, insurance calls and discussions with other drivers and passengers. However, if you want to protect yourself, a call to an experienced White Marsh criminal attorney should also be on that list. In accidents, it is essential to determine liability to recover damages, was it your fault, the other drivers, or a faulty mechanical issue? No matter the answer an experienced car accident attorney can help protect you and ensure you are properly reimbursed.

Call for a Free Consultation

If you are in the White Marsh, Maryland area and find yourself wrapped up in criminal charges, call for a free consultation. Being arrested and charged can be a life changing, terrifying experience, but you do not have to fight it alone. Call a Maryland criminal defense lawyer to talk about your options.