Category Archives: Criminal Law
What is the Difference Between DUI & DWI in Maryland?
Drunk driving is a serious problem in Maryland and across the United States. That is why Maryland prohibits anyone from driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or driving while impaired (DWI) by alcohol or drugs. Even though these offenses are similar, there are subtle differences between Maryland laws and penalties for DUI and… Read More »
Examining the Crime of Extortion in Maryland
The popular conception of extortion seems fixated on organized crime, with mafia or gang members intimidating everyday people into unlawful deals. If anyone resists, the criminals respond with force or threats of force. Eventually, everyone seems to give in to these criminal demands. That is why Maryland enforces extortion laws to prohibit this type… Read More »
Negligent, Reckless and Aggressive Driving Laws in Maryland
In order to combat serious car and truck accidents, Maryland law makes it unlawful to engage in negligent, reckless or aggressive driving. To understand the boundaries of and differences between these three traffic offenses, the following sections will explore important considerations for each offense. Negligent Driving in Maryland The definition of negligent driving appears… Read More »
Possession of Illegal Drugs in Maryland
The subject for exploration today centers on the possession of illegal drugs and other controlled substances in Maryland. To gain a full appreciation of this legal issue, the following sections will examine key definitions and penalties for this offense. Possession of Illegal Drugs Under Code of Maryland Section 5–601, it is illegal to obtain… Read More »
Criminal Case vs. Civil Lawsuit for Crime Victims in Maryland
Criminal cases and civil lawsuits are not the same. In light of this, the following examines six differences between criminal cases and civil lawsuits for crime victims in Maryland. Purpose The purpose of a criminal case is to punish the perpetrator for violating state criminal law. The perpetrator is responsible to the state, not… Read More »
4 Key Stages of the Legal Timeline for Crime Victims in Maryland
Today’s blog entry will focus on the legal timeline for crime victims in Maryland. The following sections will explore four key stages of the post-crime process: Crime Reporting; Case Prosecution; Sentencing Hearing and Post-Sentencing Proceedings. Victim Reports the Crime to Law Enforcement There are certain rights that come into play after the victim reports… Read More »
How Does Maryland Address Juvenile Delinquency?
Under Maryland law, the term juvenile delinquency refers to criminal conduct by children under 18 years old. These children are not subject to the same laws and penalties as adult criminals. But juvenile delinquents can face harsh punishment for engaging in criminal behavior. To help understand the intricacies of juvenile delinquency in Maryland, the… Read More »
Maryland Kicks Off National Crime Victims’ Rights Week
For the 29th year, the state of Maryland held memorial services for crime victims, reported The Baltimore Sun. These memorial services are part of the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which unites individual efforts across the United States. What is the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week? As explained by the Office for Victims of… Read More »
Baltimore Crime Seems to be Decreasing After Violent 2017
The amount of crime in Baltimore seems to have decreased after breaking records last year, reported The Baltimore Sun. Comparing January-March data from 2017 and 2018, there appears to be a drop in criminal activity across the board. Homicide and murder decreased 27 percent from the same time period last year. Other violent crimes… Read More »
7 Types of Civil Lawsuits for Maryland Crime Victims
Even in the absence of a conviction in criminal court, crime victims in Maryland might be able to receive compensation from a civil lawsuit. Referred to as torts instead of crimes, the civil courts allow victims to sue the perpetrator for various types of wrongdoing. The following sections will provide an overview of common… Read More »