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Maryland Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer

Misdemeanors in Maryland are often misconceived as "minor" offenses. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. The purpose of this blog post is to clarify what a misdemeanor charge in Maryland entails, the potential ramifications, and why hiring an expert misdemeanor defense lawyer from FrizWoods LLC is not just recommended but essential.

Types of Misdemeanors in Maryland

Common Charges

Some of the most common misdemeanor charges in Maryland include:

Legal Definitions

In Maryland, misdemeanors often involve crimes that have a significant impact on the safety and well-being of the public. For instance, assault in the second degree is a misdemeanor offense even though it has a maximum penalty of up to ten years in jail.

Frequently Asked Questions About Misdemeanors

1. Is a misdemeanor a crime in Maryland?

Yes, by nature all misdemeanors are criminal cases. This is because crimes only come in two forms misdemeanors, and felonies.

2. What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

Both misdemeanors and felonies are criminal defenses. The major difference is that felonies are typically outside the jurisdiction of the District Court and must be filed in the Circuit Court by indictment. There are certain felonies that can go to trial in District Court, like felony theft.

Additionally, felony offenses are usually punishable with longer jail sentences, although there are 10 year maximum misdemeanors in Maryland and 5 year maximum felonies.

3. What is a misdemeanor charge in Maryland?

A misdemeanor charge in Maryland is a criminal offense that has been deemed a misdemeanor by the Maryland criminal code. Some common examples include driving without a license, driving without insurance, or assault in the second degree.

4. Does a misdemeanor go on your record Maryland?

If a person is convicted of a misdemeanor they will have a criminal record. Some misdemeanors are expungable, depending on the offense and the outcome. Most misdemeanors become expungable if a person is awareded a probation before judgment with the exception of DUI & DWI.

5. How much time do you serve on a misdemeanor in Maryland?

A person could serve as much as the maximum penalty permits in a misdemeanor case. Each charge carries a different maximum penalty in Maryland, so you'll need to check the maximum penalty for the offense that is charged.

6. Do Misdemeanors Go Away After a Certain Time in Maryland?

Misdemeanors do not automatically "go away" or get expunged over time in Maryland. Action must be taken to have a charge expunged, and not all misdemeanors are eligible for expungement.

Why Should You Worry About a Misdemeanor?

It's Not Just a Minor Offense

Contrary to popular belief, misdemeanors are not to be taken lightly. In Maryland, a misdemeanor charge could mean facing years in jail, depending on the offense. Other potential penalties include hefty fines, probation, and community service.

Social and Professional Impact

A misdemeanor on your record can create a ripple effect through your social and professional life. It can affect your employment opportunities, as many employers conduct background checks, and can even result in loss of professional licenses.

Steps After Being Charged

Seek Legal Advice Immediately

If you find yourself charged with a misdemeanor, your first course of action should be to consult a lawyer. Prompt legal advice can make a difference in how your case unfolds.

Do Not Discuss Your Case

It's natural to want to tell your side of the story, but doing so without legal consultation can inadvertently incriminate you. Until you've spoken with a lawyer, it's wise to exercise your right to remain silent.

Why Choose FrizWoods LLC?

Experienced Misdemeanor Lawyers

FrizWoods LLC brings years of specialized experience in handling misdemeanor cases. Our team has the expertise to navigate the complex legal waters of Maryland's legal system, providing you with the best possible defense.

Track Record

Our success stories speak for themselves. Whether it's having charges reduced or even dropped, our firm has consistently achieved favorable outcomes for our clients. Don't just take our word for it; visit our Reviews Page to hear what our clients have to say.

Personalized Approach

Every case is unique, which is why we tailor our defense strategies to meet the specific needs and circumstances of your case. At FrizWoods LLC, you're not just another case number�you're a valued client deserving of personalized attention and dedicated service.

Our Misdemeanor Defense Services

Case Evaluation

The first step in any legal defense is an initial consultation. This evaluation allows our team to understand the specifics of your case, providing us with the information needed to formulate an effective defense strategy.

Court Representations

FrizWoods LLC will guide you through every step of the court proceedings. From arraignment to trial, our legal experts are committed to defending your rights within the framework of Maryland's legal system.

Plea Negotiations

Plea deals can often minimize the penalties you face. Our firm excels in negotiating with prosecutors to reduce your charges or penalties, sometimes even leading to dropped charges.

What Sets Us Apart

Client Testimonials

Real people, real stories. Our Reviews Page showcases testimonials from clients who have faced similar legal challenges and have found successful resolutions through our services.

Free First Consultation

Unsure where to start? We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case. This is not just a quick chat; it's a comprehensive evaluation of your legal situation to help you understand the road ahead.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Facing a misdemeanor charge in Maryland is a serious matter that can have long-lasting implications on your personal and professional life. It's not something you should navigate alone. Specialized legal representation can make the difference between a clean slate and a life-altering conviction.