Blog
- Maryland Changes Laws to Allow More Child Sex Abuse Lawsuits
Oct 3, 2023
A new law that went into effect on October 1, 2023 allows survivors of child sexual abuse to file civil lawsuits against their abusers and the institutions that enabled them, regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred. The “Child Victims Act” was A key driver behind the new law was the release in January 2023 of a scathing 463-page report by the Maryland Attorney General’s office, which revealed that over 150...Read More - Maryland Reduces Waiting Periods for Criminal Record Expungements
Oct 2, 2023
A new Maryland law shortening the waiting periods before certain criminal convictions can be Known as the “REDEEM Act of 2023,” the bill was signed into law earlier this year. Supporters say the measure provides a better chance at redemption for those with past nonviolent offenses. Under previous Maryland law, misdemeanor convictions could only be expunged 10 years after completion of a sentence. Felonies required a 15-year waiting period. The REDEEM Act...Read More - Federal Judge Temporarily Blocks Maryland’s Concealed Carry Restrictions
Oct 2, 2023
In a significant decision on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, a federal judge has temporarily halted sections of Maryland’s new gun legislation that limited where concealed firearms could be carried. The “ The judge, an appointee of former President Obama, ruled against the state’s ban on carrying guns in places where alcohol is sold, on private property without the owner’s consent, and at public demonstrations. However, he upheld the restriction in “sensitive places” such as...Read More - What to Expect at Your Maryland Arraignment Hearing
Sep 18, 2023
If you’ve been arrested and charged with a crime in Maryland, one of the first steps in the legal process is the arraignment hearing. This hearing marks the start of your criminal case in Maryland. The arraignment typically takes place within 24 hours after an arrest. The hearing itself is straightforward—you will be presented with the criminal charges filed against you. The judge reads the charges out loud and provides you with a copy...Read More - Boating under the influence its consequences
Sep 15, 2023
Many people enjoy boating in Ocean City, Maryland as a pastime when the weather is pleasant. However, under certain circumstances, it’s possible to face charges of boating while intoxicated. Even if you know you’ve been wrongly charged, it’s crucial to understand these laws. Understanding boating under the influence Like driving under the influence ( Penalties for BUI and BWI For a first-time BUI, penalties include up to one year in prison...Read More - Is your career as a doctor in jeopardy after a DUI charge?
Sep 11, 2023
There’s no denying that it takes time and effort to become a doctor. After years of medical school and internships, you reach a point where your hard work pays off. Unfortunately, making an unwise decision to drive under the influence in Maryland can lead to a DUI charge. Here’s what to expect to help you navigate this stressful time. Can you lose your medical license after a DUI? By law, a Maryland doctor...Read More - Understanding your rights at a DUI checkpoint
Sep 8, 2023
When encountering a DUI checkpoint in Maryland, you might question the choices available to you. If law enforcement possesses a reasonable suspicion that you are driving under the influence, they may ask to see your registration and driver’s license, even if no legal violation is evident. Maryland’s DUI checkpoint regulations The regulations in this domain are direct. The police hold the authority to conduct a DUI checkpoint stop, even in the absence of...Read More - Nolle Prosequi: What It Means For Your Maryland Criminal Case
Sep 7, 2023
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Maryland, you may have heard the Latin term “nolle prosequi.” But what does it mean? How might it affect your case? Nolle prosequi, also called a “nolle pros,” simply means that the prosecutor has chosen to drop the charges against you and will no longer pursue the case. Rather than taking your case to trial, the State’s Attorney has decided not to prosecute you for the...Read More - What Is a “Stet” in Maryland Criminal Cases?
Aug 29, 2023
A “stet” is a Latin term meaning “let it stand” and is used in Maryland criminal cases. It’s an indefinite postponement of prosecution where the charges remain on file but are inactive. A stet is not a conviction, guilty plea, acquittal or dismissal. The case is simply placed on an inactive docket. The state can reopen the case within 3 years if the defendant violates any conditions. After 3 years, the case can be...Read More - What happens if someone resists arrest during a DUI stop
Aug 27, 2023
When Maryland police officers suspect that someone has broken the law, they usually seek to investigate the situation. If they spot someone whom they believe is under the influence of intoxicants at the wheel, for example, they will likely initiate a traffic stop. An officer’s driving under the influence (DUI) suspicions may require chemical breath testing and field sobriety test results before they can fully establish or negate their concerns about someone’s likely impairment...Read More