SALISBURY CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS

It is important for you to understand that criminal defense isn't a simple process. This very complex process involves us helping you to explore your options and guiding you through the process. Throughout your case, we can help you to understand your options. We can explain how each option might affect you. While we can't promise that everything will go in your favor, we can promise you that we will do our best to present your defense in an effective manner.

As you move through the criminal justice system, communication is vital. We know that you might have questions and we are ready to answer those questions. If you are facing criminal charges, you have to take the first step in your defense by seeking out assistance for your defense. We can help you every step of the way from the first encounter until the resolution of the case.

We stand by your side to help you defend your rights. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that your case is going to go your way from the get-go. Instead, let our Salisbury criminal defense lawyers help you to start developing your defense as soon as possible so that we have as much time as possible to prepare.

2 Classifications for Criminal Charges in Maryland

There are two possible classifications for criminal charges. How your charges are classified has a big impact on the possible penalties that you are facing. The two possible classification are misdemeanor and felony. It very important for you to know the differences between these two classifications.

A felony charge is the most serious classification for crimes. Murders, rapes, identity theft and arson are some examples of felonies. Generally, felony charges are associated with longer periods of incarceration. This incarceration is done in prison instead of the local jail. You also face fines and other penalties if you are convicted of a felony. In addition, you are classified as a felon and might have difficulties finding a job or a place to live because of that classification.

A misdemeanor is a less serious criminal charge. A conviction of a misdemeanor is associated with a period of incarceration in jail. That period is usually a year or less, but might be longer depending on the charge and any enhancements. Misdemeanors can also carry fines and other penalties.

Learning about how your charges are classified is crucial so that you know how to plan your defense. In some cases, you might be able to seek a plea deal for the case. That depends on the prosecution's willingness to work out a deal and your willingness to accept it.

No matter what type of charges you are facing, you should start to go over the evidence against you and start planning a strategy for your defense right away. If your case goes to trial, this will help you to have time to prepare.

How Does the Criminal Justice System Work?

There are three different groups that you might deal with while you are in the criminal justice system -- law enforcement, the court system and the corrections system. Each of these plays an important role in the criminal justice system.

Typically, your time in the criminal justice system will start with the law enforcement agency that is handling the crime you are accused of committing. This is the agency that is likely going to question you, detain you, and arrest you.

From there, you will face the court system. This is where everything from arraignment to sentencing is held. At each step in the process, your criminal defense attorney should be able to let you know what is going on and what your options are for dealing with the charges against you.

If you are found guilty of a crime, you might be sentenced to incarceration or probation. Both of these fall under the corrections system. If you are incarcerated, you will head to prison or jail. If you are sentenced to supervised probation, you will have to meet with the probation officer.

Whether you are facing a simple misdemeanor or a capital level felony, you should make sure that you know what options you have as you make choices. This gives you the information you need to think about how your life now and later will be affected by each option you have.

Contact us to discuss your legal options with our Salisbury criminal defense lawyers. Our offices are conveniently located in Salisbury and Ocean City where we proudly serve clients throughout Wicomico and Worcester Counties.