Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Dangers of Driving When Tired in Baltimore
With work commitments and family obligations, many are not getting the amount of sleep their body needs. Too often, sleeping and getting adequate sleep is prioritized. Sleep deprivation can lead to many issues, including car accidents and health problems. People follow their daily routine, even when they are exhausted. They are not thinking clearly… Read More »

What Rights Do Sexual Assault Victims Have in Maryland?
The State of Maryland provides certain special rights to victims of sexual assault crimes, including immediate transportation and free medical treatment. These special rights exist in addition to other legal privileges, such as attending court proceedings, giving statements in court, or asking for restitution. Before discussing specific details, however, it will be helpful to… Read More »

Maryland Court Finds Large Company Liable for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Despite an independent contract, a Maryland appellate court determined that a large company was liable to a farm worker for workers’ compensation benefits, according to a decision by the Court of Special Appeals. To understand the significance of this decision, it will be necessary to examine relevant factual background, procedural history, and legal analysis…. Read More »

Examining 4 Legal Elements of Workers’ Compensation in Maryland
Workers’ compensation in Maryland is a legal doctrine that addresses the liability for injuries and diseases that occur in the employment context. This doctrine applies when an employee sustains a qualifying injury — or contracts an occupational disease — as a function of performing their job duties. In these cases, the injured employee can… Read More »

Prince George County Traffic Stop May Lead to Police Misconduct Claim
A 24-year-old Maryland man injured during a traffic stop in Prince George County may file a police misconduct claim against the arresting officers, according to an article by The Washington Post. The traffic stop in question occurred on October 17th at approximately 5:30 p.m. Near the 4000 block of Wheeler Road in Oxon Hill,… Read More »

Eligibility for Filing a Wrongful Death Action in Maryland
Under Maryland law, wrongful death is a type of personal injury action designed to compensate family members for the death of a loved one. These actions are only available if the death resulted from a negligent or wrongful act. Additionally, Maryland law outlines various factors concerning the eligibility to file a wrongful death action… Read More »

Overview of Medical Malpractice Claims Under Maryland Law
Medical malpractice is a cause of action available under Maryland civil law. Malpractice claims arise when there is negligence, and a patient suffers a medical injury. To qualify as medical malpractice under Maryland law, the injury must involve a health care provider as well. What is the Definition of a Health Care Provider? Maryland… Read More »

Are Maryland Landlords or Tenants Responsible for Premises Liability Claims?
Premises liability is a doctrine that exists within the boundaries of personal injury law in Maryland. This doctrine addresses the legal liability of property owners for injuries that occur on their premises. On a larger level, premises liability requires an owner to take reasonable steps to address dangerous conditions that exist on their property…. Read More »

Maryland Student Fatality Leads to Wrongful Death Settlement
The Worcester County Board of Education recently settled a wrongful death lawsuit involving a 2016 student fatality, according to an article by The Dispatch. School officials declined to comment on the monetary value of this settlement. This wrongful death lawsuit originated in January of 2016. At that time, a 15-year-old boy with a seizure-related… Read More »

Survey of Marijuana Laws & Penalties in Maryland
Outside of narrowly constructed exceptions, it a criminal offense to possess or distribute marijuana in the State of Maryland. Any person who disregards these laws can face incarceration and steep monetary fines. But the exact nature of the criminal penalties fluctuates based on the type of offense, quantity of marijuana in question, and number… Read More »