RaquinMercer Law Offices
“The Defense Never Rests.”
Photo of Professionals at RaquinMercer LLC

Trial Representation In Washington, D.C., & Maryland

Judge and jury trials are the principal way to resolve an accusation that a person has committed a crime. To be sure, most criminal accusations in our criminal justice system are resolved through a plea-bargaining process; however, it is bad practice for an attorney to approach a client with the mindset that their case will plead out. At RaquinMercer LLC, our attorneys work with each client to investigate and prepare their case for judge and jury trials because experience teaches that a strong defense is the best defense. In another sense, an attorney’s reputation as a trial attorney can make the difference to whether a prosecution ever goes to trial or results in a favorable disposition.

Telling Your Story At Trial

In our adversarial system, the defense is pitted against the prosecution, and each side presents their version of the truth. In a jury trial, the judge gets to decide legal questions, while the jury must decide factual questions and then apply the law to the facts. To prevail at trial, the defense has certain tools available to it, such as the substantive law of the crime, the rules or procedures of the court, the technical rules of evidence, and the art or psychology of persuasion. Fully integrating these tools at trial is what RaquinMercer LLC is all about. We strive to tell your story at trial because we understand that a judge or jury wants to hear your narrative about the evidence.

Isabelle Raquin is a dynamic trial attorney with a gift for crafting and delivering compelling arguments in the courtroom. Her trial skills, combined with Steve Mercer’s cutting-edge knowledge of DNA and forensics, provides our clients with a powerful line of defense as they face damaging criminal charges in Maryland and D.C. courts.

Take The First Step Toward Protecting Your Rights

In our system of criminal justice, overreaching police officers and overzealous prosecutors can tilt the balance of advantage against you. You need a seasoned trial team on your side to shift the balance in your favor. You have rights that need to be protected and a liberty interest that must be defended. We look forward to being the strong advocate you need. Call 301-750-9702 to set up a consultation.

Photo of Judge Gary E. Bair (Ret.)

What if I unknowingly transported illegal drugs?

A friend asked you to transport a package as a favor. It could be a small box, a can or even an innocent-looking stuffed toy. At the airport or border, authorities accosted you and revealed you were carrying illegal drugs. You had no idea the package your friend gave...

Steps for helping a loved one fight a wrongful conviction

You may feel overwhelmed after a loved one receives what appears to be a wrongful conviction. At such a time, the legal system can easily seem confusing and unfair.  However, there are steps you can take that may make a difference in your loved one’s fight for...

How recent changes in drug laws may affect your appeal

In recent years, drug laws in Washington, D.C., have undergone significant changes, switching between a stricter stance and a more proactive health approach. The district has taken a middle-of-the-road approach: a tough stance on selling but a more lenient approach to...

What you need to know about the Post-Conviction Procedure Act (PCPA)

The Post-Conviction Procedure Act (PCPA) in Maryland offers a legal process for people convicted in a state court to challenge their conviction or sentence. It can address unconstitutional convictions, procedural mistakes or new evidence that could lead to acquittal....