After a criminal charge, the process begins when police officers arrest the defendant and gather evidence at the crime scene. The defendant then goes through the booking process, where the police record their information and officially charge them. The police must...
Criminal Defense
How can I prepare for a criminal trial in Maryland?
You’re about to face a criminal trial and you’ve already secured legal representation. Now, it’s time to focus on preparation. This crucial phase might feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help you navigate the process more effectively. Here are three...
Is it legal for a doctor to receive payments from drug companies?
While it is true that accepting payments from drug companies can lead to legal scrutiny, not every instance is a crime. It is crucial for you to understand that the law does permit certain types of financial relationships under clearly defined conditions. The law...
Pretrial motions and their impact on criminal cases
In the complex world of the legal system, pretrial motions play a big role in deciding how a criminal case turns out. These are official requests made by the prosecutor or defendant before the trial begins. Understanding pretrial motions Pretrial motions are formal...
Committing tax crimes could lead to a deportation order
The U.S. government enforces strict rules against “crimes of moral turpitude” (CMTs). These crimes typically involve fraud, theft or the intent to harm people or property. They come with severe penalties and can often result in deportation. One of the often overlooked...
How do you protect your DNA sample against privacy pitfalls?
DNA evidence can be helpful in solving crimes and freeing the innocent. However, collecting and analyzing DNA evidence can also raise privacy concerns. To protect your privacy, law enforcement agencies need to get your permission before collecting your DNA sample. But...
Why you should not give up after a wrongful conviction
The criminal justice system has sent innocent people behind bars. One man in particular, John Huffington, received two convictions for two murders he did not commit. The prosecutors of his case relied on expert testimony based on a scientifically unreliable analysis....
Unlocking the potential of trace DNA in criminal defense
Trace DNA, often referred to as touch DNA, consists of minuscule amounts of genetic material left behind through contact. This can occur when a person briefly touches a surface, handles an object or sheds skin cells. Despite its near-invisibility, advanced forensic...
Should I invest in costly DNA evidence to prove my innocence?
DNA evidence has transformed the justice system, accurately determining guilt or innocence. It can exonerate the wrongfully convicted, but it is expensive. For those seeking justice after wrongful convictions, the decision to invest in costly DNA evidence can be a...
How to craft a criminal defense strategy
Anyone facing criminal charges in Maryland probably thinks about their criminal defense strategy constantly. After you have been arrested or you walk into that courtroom, you know this isn’t like TV. There are serious consequences on the line and, in many cases, your...