You may be savvy enough to realize that law enforcement officers have the legal right to lie to suspects during an investigation. For example, they can say they have hard evidence that incriminates you even if they have nothing. However, police officers must generally...
Year: 2023
Can eyewitness testimony be challenged?
Eye witness testimonies play a crucial role in the criminal justice system. This is because eyewitnesses are sworn to honesty and help provide clear insight and facts regarding an alleged crime. However, there have been troubling questions about the accuracy of human...
Can you expunge a DUI conviction in Maryland?
If you face criminal charges, you are likely aware that a conviction will appear on your record. It can have far-reaching consequences on your life, such as when looking for a job or housing. Fortunately, it is sometimes possible to expunge your case and have the...
What does it mean to get “trespassed”?
Trespassing is the act of entering someone else’s property without permission. The trespasser is the person who does this, and they can often be removed from the property by the authorities. For instance, someone could be trespassing in a home or a business. But you...
What are the different forms of domestic violence?
Maryland law does not explicitly categorize specific violent offenses as “domestic.” Basically, any crime —including assault – that affects the intimately-connected relationships within a family or romantic relationship (present or former) is generally considered a...
Is it a crime to use your child’s Social Security number to obtain credit?
It’s almost an invisible crime — parents who compromise their minor children’s future credit scores to obtain credit in their kids’ names. But make no mistake, it is indeed a crime to steal your child’s identity. Could you be prosecuted for this crime? That depends...
What to do when charged with disorderly conduct
Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor, but being convicted of it can result in heavy penalties. According to Maryland law, acting willfully in a disorderly manner that disturbs public peace constitutes disorderly conduct. Examples may include public intoxication,...
Is “house arrest” an option for you?
Obviously, if you’ve been charged with a crime, your goal is to have the charge dropped or be found not guilty. Sometimes, that’s just not possible. If you are facing incarceration for a DUI/DWI or another non-violent crime, you may well be able to serve your sentence...
4 mistakes to avoid when charged with domestic violence
Domestic violence is a serious offense that can affect your life in many ways. According to Maryland’s 2016 Senate Bill 578/HB 167, this crime involves an act of abuse against a current or former spouse, a cohabitant or a relative by blood, marriage or adoption. If...
Can you refuse to take a field sobriety test?
If you find yourself in the midst of a traffic stop and asked to take a field sobriety test, you need to know your rights. Many drivers are left unsure about whether they can refuse such tests or if it would make their situation worse. In Maryland, as in all states,...