In Maryland, possessing a “switch” on a gun — typically referring to a Glock switch or auto sear — is a serious criminal offense. These small devices convert semi-automatic pistols into fully automatic firearms, effectively turning them into illegal machine guns under Maryland law. If you’re caught with one, the consequences can be severe. ButRead More
Legal questions
Can Therapists Report Crimes in Maryland?
Therapists play a critical role in mental health treatment—but they also have legal and ethical duties when it comes to confidentiality and public safety. If you’re wondering whether a therapist can report a crime in Maryland, the answer depends on what kind of crime, when it occurred, and whether anyone is at risk now. ConfidentialityRead More
What Does It Mean to Plead the Fifth?
If you’ve ever watched a courtroom drama or followed a high-profile legal case, you’ve likely heard the phrase: “I plead the Fifth.” But what does it actually mean—and when can someone legally say it? In the United States, pleading the Fifth is shorthand for invoking the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. This right allows individualsRead More
What is Reckless Endangerment in Maryland?
Reckless endangerment is a serious criminal offense in Maryland that often catches people off guard. You don’t have to hurt someone—or even intend to—for the state to charge you with reckless endangerment. If prosecutors believe your actions created a substantial risk of serious injury or death, you could face jail time, fines, and a permanentRead More
How Old to Babysit in Maryland? What Parents Need to Know
If you’re a parent in Southern Maryland—whether in Charles, Calvert, St. Mary’s, or Prince George’s County—you might be wondering: How old does a child need to be to babysit in Maryland? The answer isn’t as simple as a single number. Maryland law doesn’t set a hard-and-fast rule about babysitting age, but it does give usRead More
