Charles County Criminal Lawyer
Whether you are facing charges for a misdemeanor and not sure whether you need legal representation or know you need an attorney because the charges against you involve felony offenses, it is important to understand that a Charles County criminal lawyer could help in many ways. Most of the time, the sooner you begin working with a legal advocate, the more an attorney could do for you.
Regardless of the crime with which you are charged, you have certain rights. However, if you do not understand your rights and how to protect them, you could inadvertently forfeit those rights.
Advice and Advocacy
The criminal justice system is confusing and intimidating, and not entirely by accident. Law enforcement officials and prosecutors understand how the system works and how to take advantage of opportunities to make things work in their favor.
Individuals accused of a crime deserve to have the same experience fighting to protect their rights and their future. Working with a skilled Charles County criminal lawyer could enable someone to be prepared for the process and ready to make the most of every avenue of defense. A defense lawyer could advocate on behalf of the accused at all stages of proceedings from arraignment to negotiations and beyond.
A Wide Variety of Crimes are Prosecuted in Charles County
Criminal offenses in Charles County are classified in several different ways. Felonies are the most severe offenses with the heaviest penalties. While the official penalties for many misdemeanors may be less, the unofficial consequences of a criminal conviction could be just as harmful.
Crimes may be divided into varieties such as violent offenses, property crimes, transportation-related offenses, sex crimes, and white-collar crimes. Some offenses commonly charged in Charles County include:
- DUI/DWI
- Assault
- Fraud
- Drug possession or distribution
- Disorderly conduct
- Domestic violence offenses
- Robbery/Burglary
- Sex crimes
An experienced criminal lawyer in Charles County knows successful defense strategies that could be used with each type of charge and devise a solid defense strategy based on the unique circumstances of a case.
Penalties Vary According to Severity
Not surprisingly, the potential penalties for a crime vary in severity depending on the nature of the crime and the circumstances surrounding the offense. In general, the threat of violence, resulting injuries, the involvement of a minor, or prior convictions are all factors that could increase the severity of the penalties.
In many jurisdictions, the rule of thumb is that misdemeanors are punishable by no more than one year in jail, and offenses punishable by a longer sentence are felonies. However, in Maryland, many crimes labeled as misdemeanors carry penalties that include much longer sentences. For instance, receiving the proceeds of a prostitute is referred to in the criminal code as a misdemeanor, but those convicted face up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
A Charles County criminal lawyer could seek alternative penalties whenever possible. Sometimes a “deal” offered by prosecutors is not the best option, so it could be helpful to have a knowledgeable legal advocate review the advantages and disadvantages in a particular situation.
Consult an Experienced Charles County Criminal Attorney
Fines could be paid and sentences could be served or commuted, but the unofficial consequences of a criminal conviction may linger and cause problems far into the future. A criminal conviction remains visible on your record to anyone conducting a background search. Even an arrest appears on your record unless action is taken to have it expunged. These damaging records could interfere with job prospects, housing opportunities, financial affairs and even personal relationships.
Advice and representation from an experienced Charles County criminal lawyer could enable you to protect your record. A knowledgeable defense attorney could work to minimize the negative consequences and help you move forward. To get started with a private consultation, call now.