Middle River Criminal Defense Lawyer

Baltimore Crimianl Defense Lawyers

Middle River is a small community in Baltimore County, Maryland with a population of around 24,000 people, according to the 2000 census. There is a Marc train that runs through the area servicing the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area and a small Airport, Martin State Airport. With so much going on in such a small area, crime can be a persistent issue. If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime, be sure to call a Middle River criminal attorney to ensure the best results.

Charges Common in Middle River

Arson

Arson is a serious accusation, and if charged can be either a felony or a misdemeanor. Under arson in the Maryland Criminal Code, there is arson in the first degree, second degree, malicious burning of personal property in the first or second degree, the threat of arson and even burning a trash container. The penalty for arson could be jail time, probation or fines. When given probation you are required to check in with a parole officer. The number of check-ins depends and could vary from weekly to bi-monthly. That is why it is essential to have an attorney to fight for minimal penalties. Call a Middle River criminal attorney as soon as possible.

Abuse Crimes

There are many different types of abuse crimes in Maryland, but all are taken seriously. There is domestic abuse, child abuse, elder abuse and even hazing. Hazing normally occurs between people of school age but can happen to anyone. Hazing is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and fines up to $500. Abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult is another misdemeanor punishable up to five years in jail and fines up to $5,000. However, abuse crimes can also fall under the felony category with sexual abuse of a minor child, which is punishable up to twenty-five years in prison. No matter the abuse crime that you are charged with, call a Middle River criminal attorney for assistance.

Assault

Assault in Maryland code contains the following crimes: assault in the first degree, assault in the second degree and reckless endangerment. In order for the State to prove first-degree assault, the State must prove all elements of second-degree assault and the use of a firearm or actions intended to cause serious physical injury. Second-degree assault can fall under the theory of intent to frighten. This means the State must prove that the defendant had the ability to and intent to place the victim in fear of immediate physical contact. These charges are serious but can be defended by multiple theories such as self-defense and defense of others. For an effective defense promptly call Rice, Murtha & Psoras.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a plea bargain, and should I agree to one?

To begin, a plea bargain is an agreement in which a person who has been accused of a crime agrees to plead guilty in return for the prosecutor recommending a lesser sentence or reducing the severity of the offense. When considering if a plea bargain is a right choice for you, it should be understood that going to trial can be risky. This is why over 90 percent of cases have been settled before trial. An experienced attorney will be able to gauge the pros and cons of a plea bargain. So, call a skilled Middle River criminal attorney to discuss your options.

What are mandatory sentencing statutes?

Maryland Criminal law 14-101 specifies the mandatory sentencing for repeat offenders. If the defendant was convicted of a crime of violence and then receives subsequent convictions of crimes of violence the defendant could face the mandatory sentencing laws. Understanding these sentencing guidelines can be the difference between years or months in prison. Contact Randolph Rice for a consultation to determine the best route of action.

What are some consequences of a conviction in Maryland?

There are obvious consequences of being convicted of a crime, such as jail time, probation, fines and community service. However, there can also be professional, academic and even immigration consequences. If you are in a profession that requires licensing such as law or medicine then having a criminal conviction could make obtaining that license much more difficult. If you already have a license in your profession it could be suspended or revoked. If you are a student a conviction could disqualify you from being eligible for federal financial aid. Finally, for people who are not U.S. citizens and are convicted, the ability to stay may be affected. Being convicted could turn your life upside down, but it does not have to. Speaking to a criminal attorney can help you to best preserve your future prospects in life.

A Middle River Criminal Attorney Can Help Today

Being charged with any type of crime can be frightening, but you do not have to do it alone. Rice, Murtha & Psoras handles a variety of defenses and can help you immediately. Located minutes from Middle River, do not hesitate to call or stop in for a consultation in order to get ahead of the charges you are facing.