Some court rulings come up short in their effort to serve justice, a fact that is especially visceral for those on the losing end of these rulings. There are many instances in which rulings are overturned after a successful appeal process, but it takes knowledge of...
A Reputation
You Can Trust
Criminal Defense
When Miranda rights are supposed to be read and the exceptions
It's not uncommon for police to violate an individual's Miranda rights in Maryland. However, many people don't even realize that required procedures weren't followed. Here's more information about the requirements of reading an individual their Miranda rights as well...
How are robbery, theft and burglary different?
There are several words that Maryland residents think about when it comes to stealing, including robbery, theft and burglary. While these words have similar meanings in general usage, they're also legal terms. In a legal setting, they have very specific meanings. It's...
False confessions are more frequent than you thought
Current events and legal issues are constantly in headlines throughout the District of Columbia region. Suburbs like Upper Marlboro in Maryland have a unique perspective. Residents here are close enough to major metropolitan areas to feel the growing pains of major...
What is medical identity theft?
Identity theft has become more sophisticated these days, and it can take on all types of forms. Now, Maryland residents may find their identity stolen for medical reasons. Personal information can be stolen by someone who is looking to obtain medical services....
Your innocence could depend on knowing when police can lie
If you believe honesty is the best policy, you’ll be disappointed to learn that police in Maryland don’t always agree. Though it’s illegal for you to lie to a police officer, it’s not illegal for him or her to lie to you. However, as anyone with experience in criminal...
Are the police allowed to lie to suspects?
When the police call someone to their offices for questioning, the person runs the risk of self-incrimination. Even those who "did nothing wrong" or "aren't the primary suspect" could end up facing time in a Maryland state prison after questioning. The police may...
When can the police collect DNA samples?
A significant debate in the criminal justice system at this time involves when law enforcement officials can constitutionally and lawfully collect DNA evidence. This debate is occurring in Maryland and across the United States. Situations in which DNA collection is...
The reliability of eyewitness testimony in criminal cases
A lot is at stake for Maryland residents formally charged with a criminal offense. The situation becomes more troubling for defendants who face a witness that will testify under oath that they are guilty as accused. Defendants that find themselves in this position may...
Why do many criminal suspects choose to remain silent?
A phone call or in-person visit from the police may come one day. Criminal suspects residing in Maryland might wish to talk things over with the police and tell their side of the story. Doing so could turn into a nightmare scenario. Persons not familiar with police...