Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s recent announcement regarding the cancellation of over $13 million in probation fees and drug testing fees for parolees and those on administrative release supervision is a pivotal move for the state’s criminal justice system. The new policy impacts 6,715 individuals under the supervision of the Division of Parole and Probation, reducingRead More
Criminal Conspiracy Charges in Maryland: What You Need to Know
In Maryland, criminal conspiracy is a serious charge with significant legal consequences. State law on conspiracy is based on the specific alleged crimes instead of having a separate set of laws addressing conspiracy. Conspiracy charges can be difficult to defend because they are considered inchoate or incomplete crimes. It is crucial to recognize what constitutesRead More
Understanding Chain of Custody (CoC)
Criminal cases begin when law enforcement officials suspect a crime has been committed. From initiating the investigation and gathering evidence to booking a suspect, they record the information. After that, they will typically file formal charges, which initiate official legal proceedings. Throughout this process, it’s essential that police securely store and catalog the evidence, whichRead More
Probation vs Parole: What You Need to Know
Navigating the criminal justice system can be daunting, especially when understanding the nuances of community supervision programs such as probation and parole. While each goal is to rehabilitate offenders and guide them back into everyday life while reducing the likelihood that they will create another offense, there are distinct differences. Understanding the differences between theseRead More
What is “Imperfect” Self Defense in Maryland?
When it comes to self-defense claims in Maryland, the legal landscape is intricate and can be quite confusing for many. One particular area that often requires clarification is the concept of “imperfect self-defense.” As an attorney practicing in Maryland, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of this defense and how it can impact the outcomeRead More