Greenbelt Criminal Attorney

Facing criminal charges is intimidating. An arrest can disrupt an otherwise quiet life and threaten a person’s future. Whether a minor infraction or a more serious crime, convictions in Maryland dramatically impact a person’s daily life. In some situations, a seasoned Greenbelt criminal attorney may even be able to prevent criminal charges from being filed in the first place.

Criminal charges can ruin reputations, careers, and relationships. Even searching for a job or a place to live can become a challenge for people with criminal records. Contact a criminal lawyer immediately to help ensure your rights are protected and to assist you in preparing a legal strategy that puts your interests and future first.

Criminal Charges

Penalties for criminal charges in Maryland include imprisonment, fines, and a mark on a person’s permanent record. Regardless of whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, a conviction has far-reaching ramifications.

The state and the federal government will spare no time or expense in fully investigating crime and will utilize experts to ensure people who break the law are penalized for doing so.

Criminal cases in Maryland are heard in one of two places: The District Court of Maryland or the Circuit Court of each county. Jurisdiction for most misdemeanors lies with the District Court, while jurisdiction for many felonies lies with the Circuit Courts.

Stages of Criminal Cases

The local Greenbelt criminal lawyers offer defense representation to individuals accused of crimes in Maryland. There are several common criminal charges. A local attorney can understand the severity of these charges and penalties. They should generally understand drug, DUI, assault, and gun charges.

Generally, there are three stages in criminal cases. At the beginning, there is the investigation, arrest, bond hearing and case review followed by an arraignment. In the second stage are the discovery process, plea negotiations, motions and the hearing.

Finally, the trial arrives, followed by sentencing and any appeals that might be necessary. These three stages can take months or even years, depending on the case. 

Hiring a Lawyer

A person facing criminal charges needs a lawyer who is unafraid of a challenge and refuses to back down in the face of adversity. By contacting a Greenbelt criminal lawyer, they can be in the hands of someone who knows exactly how to handle cases in the area.

No matter how serious the charges may or may not be, you owe it to yourself to speak with a knowledgeable attorney today. The sooner a lawyer is involved with your case, the better the chances are that you will receive the best possible outcome. Time is of the essence when there are interviews to be conducted, evidence to gather and police reports to review.