What Is the Difference Between Robbery and Armed Robbery?
Robbery and armed robbery are closely related offenses under Maryland law, but the presence or alleged use of a dangerous weapon can dramatically increase the seriousness of a case. While both charges are considered violent crimes, armed robbery exposes a defendant to significantly greater penalties and more aggressive prosecution. If you...
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I Was Arrested at a DUI Checkpoint: Was That Legal?
Being arrested at a DUI checkpoint does not automatically mean the stop or arrest was lawful. Maryland permits sobriety checkpoints under certain circumstances, but law enforcement must follow constitutional requirements when establishing and operating them. Even if a checkpoint itself was legal, officers must still have a lawful basis to extend the...
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Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Gun Charges in Maryland
Not every gun charge in Maryland carries a mandatory prison sentence, but some do. Whether a judge has discretion to impose probation or must order incarceration depends on the specific offense, your criminal history, and how the firearm was allegedly used. Because mandatory minimum sentencing depends on the specific offense and...
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Grand Jury Proceedings in Maryland: What They Mean for You
Key Takeaways
A grand jury decides whether there is enough evidence to bring charges, not whether someone is guilty.
Grand juries are commonly used in Maryland felony investigations and other serious criminal cases.
An indictment is not automatic—grand jurors...
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What Happens if You Violate an Ignition Interlock Device?
Key Takeaways
Ignition interlock violations can lead to extended participation requirements.
Not every violation automatically results in penalties.
Missed rolling retests, failed breath samples, and allegations of tampering are common issues.
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration...
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Marijuana DUI in Maryland: How Impairment Is Tested Without a Breathalyzer
Key Takeaways
Marijuana DUI cases in Maryland are not proven with a standard breathalyzer.
Legal cannabis use does not protect a driver from DUI charges.
THC can remain detectable after impairment has worn off.
Police often...
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Should You Take a Plea Deal in a Maryland Criminal Case? Key Factors to Consider
Whether you should take a plea deal in a Maryland criminal case depends on the strength of the evidence, the risks of going to trial, and the long-term consequences of a conviction. While many cases in Annapolis and throughout Maryland are resolved through plea agreements, accepting one is not always the right...
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Maryland DUI for Nurses, Teachers, and Other Licensed Professionals: Will You Lose Your Career?
A DUI in Maryland can affect more than your driving record—it can also put your professional license at risk. Nurses, teachers, and other licensed professionals are often required to meet strict standards of conduct, and a criminal charge may trigger reporting requirements or disciplinary review. In Annapolis and throughout Maryland, the...
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Violating a Protective Order or Peace Order in Maryland: Why “Just One Text” Can Be a Crime
In Maryland, violating a protective order or peace order can lead to criminal charges—even if the contact was limited to a single text message. Courts strictly enforce “no contact” provisions, and any prohibited communication may be treated as a separate offense. These cases often arise from misunderstandings about what is allowed,...
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Roadside Portable Breath Tests vs. Station Breath Tests in Maryland: What Really Matters in Court?
In Maryland DUI cases, not all breath tests are treated the same. Drivers in Annapolis and throughout the state may be asked to take a roadside portable breath test during a traffic stop and later a formal breath test at a police station. While both measure alcohol, they serve different legal...
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First-Time Drug Offenders in Maryland: Will You Go to Jail or Qualify for Treatment?
For many first-time drug offenders in Maryland, jail is not the most likely outcome—but it is still possible. Courts often consider alternatives such as probation or treatment, especially in cases involving simple possession. In Annapolis and throughout Maryland, the outcome depends on the type of charge, the surrounding facts, and how...
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What Counts as a Prior DUI in Maryland? Lookback Periods and Out-of-State Convictions
In Maryland, a prior DUI can significantly increase the penalties you face in a new case. Courts may consider both in-state and certain out-of-state convictions when determining whether an offense is treated as a first, second, or subsequent DUI. While specific lookback periods apply to some sentencing enhancements, older convictions can...
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