How Can Your Criminal Lawyer Get You Relief From Criminal Law Procedures?

Criminal law, by definition, differs from civil law as a system of laws concerned with the punishment of individuals who commit crimes.

A civil case comprises two individuals disputing their rights, while a criminal prosecution involves the government deciding whether to punish an individual for a criminal act or passing an omission.

To paraphrase Cornell Law, a “crime” is any act or omission that violates a law prohibiting the same action or omission.

In the United States, each state is given the liberty to decide what conduct should be designated as a crime. Therefore, each state has its own criminal code. In addition, Congress has also chosen to punish certain conduct, marking it as federal criminal law in Title 18 of the U.S. Code. Criminal laws vary significantly among states and federal government. 

In Maryland, statutes are passed by the General Assembly, the state’s legislative body. The Laws of the State of Maryland is a chronological collection of laws passed by the General Assembly, and are also referred to as session laws. 

Criminal law in Maryland consists of the following: 

·        Domestic Violence

·        Drug Crimes

·        Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

·        Traffic Crimes

·        Sex Offenses 

We recommend that you hire and retain an attorney specializing in criminal defense in case you are charged or implicated in one of these crimes. A less-known fact is that minor convictions and misdemeanors can stay on your record permanently, hindering any chances at advancing socially or at your workplace. Working with an attorney ensures that you can work towards lessening the impact or even removing the conviction from your life record. 

You may be charged with one of two types of offenses- a misdemeanor or a felony. In case of a misdemeanor, jail-time does not generally exceed a year’s time. Misdemeanors include possession of marijuana and less-violent assault or battery. Felonies, on the other hand, are more serious, with jail-time that may span several years. Felonies include attempted murder and drug trafficking. Whether you are charges with a misdemeanor or a felony offense, it’s a good idea to consult with an attorney. 

Contacting your attorney or a criminal lawyer is a step that is well within your Miranda Rights. If you are arrested, you should exercise your rights to

a)     Remain silent.

b)    Contact an attorney. 

In such a case, your attorney can help by giving you a clear idea of what is ahead of you if you are convicted, as well as the next steps regarding the legal proceedings of your case. 

Having a criminal attorney guide your strategy is also useful in court proceedings related to your criminal law in Maryland case. Since it is mandatory to appear in court to clear an arrest warrant, it is vital to both appear in front of the court and have an attorney on your team, both of which will help prevent jail time. 

Essentially, having an attorney who you can contact in extenuating circumstances will give you a clear picture of how to deal with the authorities, as well as any legal proceedings you may have to face with regard to criminal laws in Maryland.