Baltimore Criminal Lawyers
Baltimore criminal lawyers can offer support and consultation when you face criminal charges in Maryland. Contact Scrofano Law PC for information and advice!
Baltimore Criminal Defense Attorneys
Every state has its own laws and penalties when it comes to crimes committed within its borders. The body of criminal law is a complex web of rules. So it is difficult for the average person to understand the scope of the law fully or navigate the criminal justice system independently because they lack legal training and experience. This is why you need the representation of a criminal defense attorney in Baltimore, MD.
You can benefit from the counsel and assistance of an experienced Baltimore criminal lawyer if you’re facing criminal charges, regardless of whether you are charged with misdemeanor or felony crimes. Based on the severity of your crime, you may face anything from a small fine and community service to life in prison or even the death sentence.
At Scrofano Law, we are committed to representing clients’ best interests. We understand that criminal offenses on your record could negatively impact your life, so aggressive representation is what it takes to win criminal defense cases. Contact us for a free consultation today!
What Do Criminal Defense Attorneys Do?
Dedicated criminal defense lawyers in Baltimore, MD gather evidence, interview witnesses, and attempt to negotiate favorable plea deals with prosecutors. Legal negotiations can result in reductions in bail, charges, and sentences.
In addition, criminal defense attorneys interrogate witnesses, study search and seizure methods, draft pleas, evaluate the prosecutor’s criminal case, evaluate prospective penalties, and examine the evidence. Your defense attorney will also discuss immigration and other potential repercussions of a plea, conviction, or criminal record.
Criminal defense law attorneys also provide more introspective services, such as laying out the defendant’s options and helping them cope with the stress of being thrust into the Baltimore, MD, criminal justice system. If a plea bargain is not possible, the trial lawyer will take the defendant’s case to trial in criminal court.
Criminal Cases We Handle
Felony Charges
A felony crime in Baltimore carries grave consequences for the perpetrator. They include violent crimes that have stricter penalties. According to Maryland Criminal Code, felonies include:
- Sex crimes
- Homicide
- First-degree assault
- Arson
- Drug crimes, such as drug distribution
- Property crimes, such as Burglary in the first, second, and third degree
- Fraud
Some crimes are both felonies and misdemeanors. For example, theft can bring felony and misdemeanor charges, depending on the value of the stolen item.
Obtain a better understanding of how Baltimore county’s criminal justice system works by consulting with a Baltimore criminal defense lawyer.
Misdemeanor Charges
The consequences of a misdemeanor conviction are generally far less severe than those of a felony conviction because misdemeanors are generally considered less serious offenses. A misdemeanor guilty verdict can result in penalties, probation, and perhaps a year of jail time.
The following offenses are commonly charged as misdemeanors:
- Traffic offenses
- Some drug crimes, such as possession of drugs
- DUI and DWI
- Assault
- Theft
- Burglary
- Fraud
- White-collar crime, such as embezzlement
Although these crimes are usually less serious, criminal charges are always serious. The state prosecutes aggressively; a single mistake could mean losing your freedom and your legal rights. If you want to avoid being sentenced to jail, speak with a Baltimore criminal defense lawyer.
What Steps Should I Take After Being Charged With a Crime?
Criminal law varies from state to state, and there’s also federal law. When you’re charged with a crime, self-representation might only be an option if you are a legal professional, well-versed with the defense options for a criminal case.
Seek out a Baltimore criminal attorney to avoid self-incrimination and get the best counsel for your legal issues. Most Maryland lawyers offer a free consultation.
How Criminal Cases Proceed through the criminal justice system in Maryland
Here is a breakdown of the processes in the criminal justice system in Maryland:
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Investigation by a major investigations unit
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Arrest
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Indictment of criminal defendants
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Arraignment to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest
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Discovery
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Trial
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Sentencing
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Appeal
The consequences of a guilty verdict
A guilty verdict could mean any of the following penalties:
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A term in jail
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Fines
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Community work
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Probation
In some instances, you could receive a combination of penalties. Also, some offenses affect your professional status, and immigration status. Get a free consultation from a Baltimore, MD criminal defense attorney to ensure you get the best possible outcome in your criminal case.
Why Hire a Top Criminal Defense Attorney in Maryland?
You need a top experienced criminal attorney to challenge the prosecution’s case in Maryland. Hiring a top criminal defense legal team, such as Scrofano Law, not only increases your chances of a favorable outcome but also protects you from almost certain mistakes. Contact us today for a free consultation with seasoned Baltimore, MD criminal law attorneys.
Criminal Defense FAQs
What if You cannot afford to hire a criminal defense LAWYER?
You are entitled to legal representation in any criminal matter. If you can’t afford private legal counsel, you have the right to a public defender from the local Public Defender office.
Do I have to speak with the police or prosecutors on my case?
No. You have the right to remain silent when asked about the charges against you. It is the work of the police and prosecution to collect evidence and prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
Should I accept a plea agreement for a lighter sentence?
Plea agreements are important instruments that the prosecution offers you to lighten punishment. However, they don’t guarantee a lighter sentence since the sitting judge can reject them. Get a free consultation from experienced lawyers before agreeing to any plea agreement or negotiated deal to ensure your rights are being protected.
NEED AN ATTORNEY?
We fight for your rights!
Paolo Gnocchi is an excellent attorney. He offered sound advice and thoroughly explained the court process. If you are looking for professional representation and a reliable attorney that will advocate for you, Paolo is your guy. Joseph Scrofano and his team are all dedicated individuals. Hopefully I never need a criminal defense attorney again LOL, but if I do, Scrofano Law would be my choice!
Paolo and this firm are top notch. They need to be thankful to have him on the team. Can’t put into words how amazing Paolo was and how thankful I am. He fought for me and succeeded. 5 stars!
Joe is amazing! Here’s the hard truth:
- 99% of cases that go court in DC end in convictions
- Last year there were 120 cases in DC and the conviction rate was 100%
Here is the good news, Joe represents people in DC and knows what he is doing! When I was charged with a crime that I didn’t commit, Joe went to work. Three years, a grueling court case, and one long battle later, I got to hear the words, “not guilty!” Joe didn’t just collect a retainer and show up on court date. He scrutinized every document in the case, subpoenaed the information he needed, and presented a perfect case of facts!
When you need someone that will fight for you and can actually win, Joe is the guy!!