Worcester County Criminal Lawyer
Being charged with a criminal offense is a frightening prospect, and navigating the judicial system can be frustrating for both first-time offenders and those that have previously faced criminal charges. It is crucial to have a criminal attorney during this process that has spoken with the accused to get a personal perspective of what is important in the outcome of the case and who is dedicated to forming a defense with that in mind.
When facing charges in Ocean City and the surrounding areas, do not hesitate to contact a Worcester County criminal lawyer who is familiar with the jurisdiction.
Right to Counsel
If a person is under investigation for a criminal offense, it is best to contact a criminal defense lawyer in Worcester County before speaking with a police officer or investigator. If they have been arrested or charged with a criminal offense, they absolutely have the right to an attorney. After making the request for legal representation, the police are prohibited from continuing to question them.
Any conversations that are had with an attorney following an arrest or regarding a criminal matter are privileged communication. The police are unable to listen to those conversations and, as long as those conversations are not shared with anyone else, they will remain private.
Common Charges in Worcester County
Two common criminal charges in Worcester County are drug possession and driving under the influence. Possession of over 10 grams of marijuana is a criminal offense that is punishable by up to 18 months of incarceration on the first offense.
Possession with intent to distribute marijuana is considered a felony offense so the corresponding penalties are more severe. Marijuana is classified as a Schedule I substance in Maryland; however, possession of other Schedule I, Schedule II, and Schedule III substances are punished more aggressively than marijuana possession.
Alcohol-related driving offenses include driving while impaired (DWI) and driving under the influence (DUI). If a driver’s blood-alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher, the penalties, if convicted, are more severe, than they would be if the driver’s BAC was below .08%.
Driving under the influence, in comparison, is a more serious offense that is punishable with:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Incarceration up to one year
- License suspension up to 12 months
Beyond the first offense, there is a mandatory incarceration period, and both the potential fines and time of incarceration double.
If a driver’s BAC is at or below .08%, the penalties for a first offense include:
- Fines up to $500
- Incarceration for up to two months
Beyond the first offense, the penalties increase to include:
- Fines up to $500
- Incarceration up to one year
Importance of Representation
Regardless of the criminal offense that an individual is facing within the specific location, it is important to be represented by a Worcester County criminal lawyer that has time to focus on the case at hand and a willingness to work toward the end goal of their client.