If you’ve been charged with a crime, it’s time to start learning the nitty gritty of criminal defense. Contact our Maryland lawyers today.
The Negative Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
Criminal charges can prove difficult to manage and can throw every aspect of your life into disarray. If you stand accused of a crime, take this charge seriously. Even if you do not end up serving time in jail, convicted criminals face numerous consequences for criminal convictions.
- Makes finding a job harder: Employers can run a background check on you, including whether you have a criminal conviction.
- Complicates getting an apartment: Many landlords also run criminal background checks in addition to credit checks.
- Decreases your chances of getting into college: You can certainly explain how you have rehabilitated yourself, but college admissions are competitive everywhere. A criminal conviction can make gaining a slot in the class harder.
These collateral consequences can prevent you from getting back on your feet and rebuilding your life, even after you have paid your debt to society.
Penalties for Misdemeanors in Maryland
A misdemeanor usually is punishable by a fine or by incarceration in a local jail for less than one year. Prosecutors typically do not convene a grand jury to investigate or issue indictments for misdemeanor charges, although the same conduct may give rise to both felony and misdemeanor charges.
Examples of misdemeanors include:
- Theft under $1,500: Up to 18 months in prison and maximum fine of $10,000.
- DUI/DWI: Maximum one year in prison and fine of $1,000.
- Most traffic offenses
- Drug possession: (not including marijuana): Up to four years in prison and $25,000 fine.
Misdemeanors are usually charged by a written complaint, or “information.” The charges may be considered minor, but being accused of a misdemeanor–not to mention being convicted of one–can cause a major disruption in the life of an accused. As in any criminal case, it is essential that a defendant in a misdemeanor prosecution have zealous representation backing him or her up.
Penalties for Felonies in Maryland
Felonies in Maryland come with very serious fines and criminal penalties. In some cases, conviction of a felony offense can cost you civil rights as well, including the right to vote, join the military, and run for public office.
Some examples of felony crimes, including:
- First-degree assault: Up to 25 years in prison.
- Drug trafficking: Up to five years in prison and hefty fines.
- Murder/Homicide: Life in prison without parole.
- Rape: Up to 20 years in prison, or life in prison, in the case of first-degree rape.
- First-degree burglary: up to 20 years in prison.
- Theft over $1,500: Up to five years in prison and maximum $5,000 fine.
With decades of courtroom success, our criminal defense attorneys in Maryland not only have deep insight into the needs of your case, but have the skills and resources needed to find success. Whatever charges you may be facing, we will work to defend your rights and create a better future for you and the people who depend on you.
Are you or a loved one are facing a criminal conviction and have questions about the nitty gritty of criminal defense? You need our strong legal assistance. Whatever charges you may be facing, we will work to defend your rights and create a better future for you and the people who depend on you.
Contact our experienced Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free confidential consultation and legal case evaluation.
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