In Maryland, there are two primary types of orders related to domestic violence and harassment: protective orders and peace orders. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between them: Protective Orders Purpose: Designed specifically to protect individuals from abuse,...
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Peace Orders and Protective Orders and the requirement of Fear, Imminent Harm, and the Likelihood to Occur Again
In Maryland, you may be eligible for a peace order if someone has threatened or harassed you in public, as peace orders are intended to protect individuals from harassment, threats, and other forms of abuse by someone with whom they do not have a domestic relationship...
Appealing a Protective Order in Maryland
In Maryland, if you wish to appeal a protective order decision, the process depends on which court issued the original order: Appealing a District Court Decision: Where to Appeal: File an appeal with the Circuit Court in the same county where the District Court made...
Media Influence on Criminal Cases
Freddie Gray Case (Baltimore, Maryland) Charges: Six Baltimore police officers were charged in connection with Freddie Gray’s death. Charges included: Second-Degree Depraved Heart Murder (Md. Code, Criminal Law, § 2-204). Involuntary Manslaughter (Md. Code,...
Common Crimes During the Holiday Season
During the Christmas holiday season, several types of crimes tend to increase. Here are the most common: Theft: Shoplifting and retail theft often rise as stores experience increased foot traffic and sales. Burglary: Home burglaries may increase as people travel or...
Hit And Run
In Maryland, a hit-and-run is taken seriously, particularly if there are injuries or property damage involved. Here are the key points regarding your situation: Failure to Remain at Scene: Leaving the scene of an accident, especially with injuries or damage,...
Newest Criminal Laws in Maryland
Maryland has enacted several new criminal laws aimed at enhancing public safety and reforming the justice system. Key legislative changes include: Juvenile Justice Reforms Lowering the Minimum Age for Serious Charges: Children aged 10 to 12 can now be charged...
What does “felony dismissal date” mean?
In Maryland, the felony dismissal date refers to the deadline by which the State must indict or file formal charges (by grand jury indictment or criminal information) following a preliminary hearing where probable cause was found. If the State does not take formal...
Do You have a Preliminary Hearing? Were you Indicted? Timeline Questions Answered.
In Maryland, after a preliminary hearing, the timeline for the state to indict a defendant is influenced by several factors, but there is no specific statute dictating an exact deadline. However, there are important procedural and constitutional considerations:...
Precedent Cases in Maryland for Suppressing Evidence
In Maryland, previously heard and published criminal cases serve as important precedents for motions to suppress evidence. These cases address various legal standards and rights, including illegal search and seizure, Miranda rights, and other related issues. Key Cases...