Category Archives: Criminal Defense
DUI/DWI Vs. Reckless/Aggressive Driving In Maryland
In addition to criminal offenses like driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI), the Maryland Code of Transportation prohibits many other types of traffic offenses. Within this realm, reckless and aggressive driving are violations with severe criminal consequences, much like DUI/DWI. DUI/DWI Laws & Penalties in Maryland The state laws against… Read More »
Is It A Maryland Gun Crime To Allow Kids Access To Firearms?
Under Maryland state law, it is usually a gun crime to allow a child to access a firearm. The reason is simple, children die each year while handling firearms without supervision. Accordingly, Maryland makes it a criminal offense to allow children to access loaded firearms without appropriate supervision. What are the Laws Against Allowing… Read More »
What is the Maryland Difference Between Rape in the First & Second Degrees?
The State of Maryland prohibits a wide range of violent crimes, including rape in the first and second degrees. Given the severity of these sex crimes, the applicable criminal penalties are correspondingly harsh. Based on the circumstances of the offense, a rape offender can face life in prison in Maryland. What are the Maryland… Read More »
Surveying 3 Versions of Domestic Violence in Maryland
In the State of Maryland, domestic violence involves abuse at the hands of a family or household member. Typically, this means that the perpetrator and victim are related by blood, marriage, or adoption. Though roommates, romantic partners, and other close associations also qualify for domestic violence protection in Maryland. In addition to widely recognized… Read More »
Comparing Various Robbery & Carjacking Crimes in Maryland
Maryland law criminalizes various offenses against the person, including multiple versions of robbery and carjacking. These theft crimes involve the use or threat of force. Though depending on the circumstances of the offense, the Maryland punishment generally increases or decreases accordingly. Before discussing the penalties for robbery or carjacking, it will be helpful to… Read More »
What is the Difference Between Aggressive, Negligent & Reckless Driving?
The Maryland Code of Transportation establishes statewide rules of the road and defines numerous types of traffic offenses. In addition to criminal offenses such as DUI, it is also illegal in Maryland to commit aggressive, negligent, or reckless driving. To discern the subtle differences between these traffic offenses, the following sections will examine several… Read More »
Overview of Maryland Laws Against Destructive Devices
Destructive device laws in Maryland exist under the umbrella of weapon possession crimes. Destructive devices have the potential to inflict severe harm due to the presence of harmful materials or substances. Accordingly, Maryland applies criminal penalties for violations of destructive device laws. What is the Definition of a Destructive Device? Maryland Code, Criminal Law… Read More »
Review of Handgun Laws & Penalties in Maryland
To safeguard public health and safety, the State of Maryland has strict criminal penalties for numerous types of gun crimes. Unlike certain places, Maryland institutes certain requirements for the purchase and use of firearms, including handguns. Does Maryland Require Permits for Handguns? The general requirement for handgun permits appears in Maryland Code, Public Safety… Read More »
What is the Difference Between Reckless Endangerment & Assault in Maryland?
The Maryland Criminal Code makes it illegal for any person to engage in violent crime, such as reckless endangerment or assault. Even though these offenses have similarities, there are subtle differences between reckless endangerment and assault in the second or first degree. Reckless Endangerment Maryland Code, Criminal Law Section 3-204 details the state laws… Read More »
Analyzing 3 Variations of Robbery Crimes in Maryland
In Maryland, robbery crimes largely follow common law. This means that robbery occurs when a perpetrator steals a victim’s property using force or the threat of force. The perpetrator must also intend to permanently deprive the victim of ownership. At common law, robbery is a crime that combines theft and assault into one offense…. Read More »
