“The Defense Never Rests.”
If you face new charges or need to challenge a prior conviction, get our dynamic team on your side.
Judge Tosses Abuse Convictions Of Md. Teacher, Citing Bad Lawyering
The Washington Post – By Dan Norse and Nicole Asbury – July 23, 2023
A new trial was ordered for John Vigna, 56, who taught at a Montgomery County elementary school for more than 20 years
…“Trial counsel failed to investigate and prepare Vigna’s defense,” Vigna’s new attorneys, Isabelle Raquin and Steve Mercer, added in court papers, “committed unforced errors which applied to all alleged victims, failed to individually challenge each alleged victim’s motives, and did not exploit their specific weaknesses.”
Practice Areas
Dynamic and knowledgeable counsel in Maryland and D.C. and for federal offenses.
Special Announcement
Governor Wes Moore recently announced appointments to the statewide Appellate Courts Judicial Nominating Commission. The appointments include the Honorable Gary E. Bair (Ret.), of counsel to RaquinMercer LLC. There is one Appellate Courts Judicial Nominating Commission established by executive order. For more information, read the Governor’s press release : http://governor.maryland.gov/news/press/pages/governor-moore-announces-appointments-to-the-appellate-courts-judicial-nominating-commission.aspx
Check out Isabelle’s latest oral argument to the Appellate Court of Maryland in a criminal appeal. Isabelle argued that the conviction should be reversed because the trial court erroneously admitted details regarding prior bad acts under the open-door doctrine. http://mdcourts.gov/sites/default/files/import/cosappeals/media/20231006_1080.mp4
A Unique Synergy Of Talents, Committed To Competing For You
Our firm features two talented individuals who combine their strengths toward a common mission: fighting passionately for our clients. Our fight is relentless, and starts early in your case, and continues with your appeal or your post-conviction.
Isabelle’s extremely powerful criminal defense skills and ability to excel at trial bring many referrals from other clients and attorneys. She handles a full range of charges, including very serious offenses. Isabelle also is the Attorney Liaison for Drug Court in Montgomery County, Maryland. Meanwhile, Steve’s highly developed knowledge of appellate practice, post-conviction relief, and complex DNA matters have brought him a national reputation. Other attorneys often seek Steve’s experience and consult with him for his unique knowledge of complex evidentiary matters.
Best of all, Isabelle and Steve work closely together, offering a synergy of skills to help clients compete effectively at any stage of the justice process. Indomitable and accomplished, they are eager to hear your story and turn it into a winning defense strategy.
What Our Clients Say
We are proud of, and very grateful, for the wonderful testimonials we have received from so many clients. Learn more about our strong record of satisfied clients.
RaquinMercer LLC
In The News
We join various news outlets to discuss the relevancy of DNA matters in current events.
Getting Started Is Critical
Getting started on your defense is critically important.
Call us day or night at 301-750-9702 or arrange a consultation by completing the brief contact form.
We will be your champion, with excellence in our DNA.