What Happens During the PBJ Process The PBJ process typically unfolds after plea negotiations between your defense attorney and the prosecutor, or after a finding of guilt at trial. When the judge agrees to grant PBJ, the conviction is not entered on your record. Instead, the judge suspends the entry of judgment and places youRead More
court process
What Is a Stet Docket in Maryland?
How the Stet Docket Affects Your Criminal Record A case placed on the stet docket is not a conviction, which is its primary benefit. When a potential employer, landlord, or licensing board conducts a background check, the case will not appear as a conviction. However, the arrest and the charge itself may still be visibleRead More
Maryland Jury Trial vs Bench Trial: Which Is Better for Your Case?
If you are facing criminal charges in Maryland, one of the most important strategic decisions you and your attorney will make is whether to have a jury trial or a bench trial. Each option has distinct advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on the specific facts of your case, the charges, the judge,Read More
What Happens at a Bond Hearing in Maryland?
If you or someone you love has been arrested in Maryland, one of the first and most important steps in the criminal process is the bond hearing. This is where a judge or commissioner decides whether you will be released from custody while your case is pending and, if so, under what conditions. Understanding whatRead More
How Long Does a Criminal Case Take in Maryland?
One of the most common questions we hear from clients at SoMD Criminal Defense is how long their criminal case will take to resolve. The honest answer is that it depends on many factors, including the severity of the charges, the court where your case is filed, the complexity of the evidence, and the strategyRead More
