When people hear the word murder, they often think only about the person who carried out the killing. But Maryland law also punishes those who help plan, assist, or conceal a murder — even if they never touched the weapon. These individuals can be charged as an accessory to murder, and the potential penalties dependRead More
Assault & Violent Crimes
What Does First-Degree Murder Mean in Maryland?
When someone is charged with first-degree murder in Maryland, it means they’re facing the most serious type of homicide under state law. But what exactly does “first-degree murder” mean—and how is it different from other types of homicide? In this post, we break down the legal definition, examples, and penalties for first-degree murder in Maryland.Read More
Assault vs Battery: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever watched a courtroom drama or heard someone say “I’m pressing charges for assault and battery,” you might assume that assault and battery are the same thing. But under Maryland law, these are distinct legal concepts with different definitions, elements, and potential penalties. Understanding the difference between assault vs battery is especially importantRead More
Burglary vs. Robbery: Understanding the Difference Under Maryland Law
If you’re facing criminal charges in Maryland, or trying to understand what a loved one has been accused of, the difference between burglary vs robbery can be confusing. Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably in casual conversation, they are two distinct crimes under Maryland law—each with its own legal definition, required elements, and potentialRead More
What’s the Difference Between First and Second Degree Assault in Maryland?
If you or a loved one has been charged with assault, one of the first questions you might ask is: What’s the difference between first and second degree assault? Understanding this distinction is critical because it can mean the difference between a misdemeanor and a serious felony—with decades of your future at stake. At SouthernRead More
