Category Archives: Criminal Defense
When A DUI Isn’t Just A DUI: Understanding The Criminal, Civil & Administrative Fallout In Maryland
Getting arrested for DUI can be a shock. At that moment, everything feels chaotic. Flashing lights. Field sobriety tests. Handcuffs. And it’s easy to think the worst is over once the arrest has been made. But in Maryland, a DUI sets off more than just a criminal case. What many people don’t realize is… Read More »
Gun Charges In Maryland: What Counts As Possession Under §5-133 And §5-144?
Maryland has some of the toughest firearm laws in the U.S., and the penalties for even a first-time gun offense can be severe. What many people don’t realize is that you don’t have to be caught holding a gun to be charged with illegal possession. Maryland’s gun statutes, particularly Public Safety §5-133 (illegal possession… Read More »
DUI Versus DWI In Maryland: What’s The Difference And Why It Matters
While some states call it DUI and other states call it DWI, Maryland uses both terms to describe different crimes. If you’ve been charged with drunk driving in the State of Maryland, you’ve probably seen both terms used and wondered what the difference is. While both are considered serious offenses, Maryland law draws a… Read More »
What Is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) In Maryland?
If you’ve ever been to traffic ticket court before in Maryland, you might have heard of the term “Probation Before Judgment” or PBJ. PBJ’s also can be granted in criminal cases, and for many defendants PBJ is considered one of the more favorable outcomes that can be achieved in a criminal case. While it… Read More »
Maryland Supreme Court Hears Case On Whether Defendant “Promoted” A Criminal Organization
The Maryland Supreme Court recently heard arguments involving a criminal defendant by the name of Jamal Williams. According to prosecutors, Williams should be found guilty of “promoting a criminal organization” for standing next to a codefendant who spray-painted a gang symbol on a public wall. The case is Jamal Antione Williams v. State of… Read More »
New Maryland Law Targets Reckless Drivers
The State of Maryland recently made major changes to its traffic laws under the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act (SB 590). The new law, which is effective October 1, 2025, increases the penalties and expands the definitions of reckless, negligent, or aggressive driving. In this article, the Bel Air, MD, criminal defense lawyers at Schlaich… Read More »
Analyzing Maryland’s New Organized Retail Theft Law
Retail theft across the country has been a major concern of law enforcement and legislators. The uptick in retail theft has resulted in several stores closing in high-crime areas. It has also contributed to price increases. This year, lawmakers have decided to fight back by passing a bill that targets organized retail theft. Senate… Read More »
Which Medical Conditions Are Most Likely To Lead To A False DUI Arrest?
Police officers diagnose drunk drivers based on various observations. Bleary or bloodshot eyes, the smell of alcohol, and more can lead an officer to believe that you are driving under the influence of alcohol. At this point, they’ll have you perform various field sobriety tests to get probable cause for an arrest. However, you… Read More »
How Is A Marijuana DUI Different Than An Alcohol DUI?
Marijuana is now legal for recreational use in Maryland. However, the laws surrounding driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol have not changed. Nonetheless, legalization has complicated issues relating to DUI, and it’s important to understand how. In this article, the Bel Air, Maryland DUI defense lawyers at Schlaich & Thompson, Chartered will… Read More »
What’s The Difference Between DUI And DWI In Maryland?
Many Maryland residents mistakenly believe that DWI and DUI are the same thing. In reality, the two terms refer to completely different crimes and can result in very different punishments. In this article, the Bel Air, MD DUI attorneys at Schlaich & Thompson, Chartered will discuss the key differences between DUI and DWI. What… Read More »
