Scrofano Law PC: Your Chevy Chase Criminal Lawyer

Working with a passionate criminal defense lawyer early on in the process can help you make sure that none of these rights are violated. Your attorney can also help you understand the court system, since a criminal offense in Chevy Chase could result in you appearing at one of Maryland’s District Courts or Circuit Courts.

In Chevy Chase, MD, the relevant District Court is the District Court of Maryland for Montgomery County in Rockville, MD. More serious criminal matters are often handled by the Circuit Court, which for Chevy Chase is Maryland’s 6th Circuit, covering Fredrick County and Montgomery County.

Common Forms of Criminal Charges

Criminal charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felony offenses. Misdemeanors typically involve less severe crimes, with common examples under Maryland law including:

• Traffic offenses

• Second-degree assault

• Minor drug possession

• Theft of goods worth less than $1,500.

Felony offenses carry the potential for high fines and long-term incarceration. These offenses are serious and often involve violence and weapons. Common felonies under Maryland law can include:

• Murder
• Rape
• First-degree assault

• Robbery, burglary, and theft involving goods worth more than $1,500

• Arson

• Drug possession with intent to distribute.

Penalties for misdemeanor and felony crimes vary based on factors like prior convictions, infliction of serious injuries, and the use of weapons.

Possible Defense Strategies in Criminal Cases

Criminal lawyers employ various legal defense strategies to challenge criminal charges, tailoring their approach to the unique circumstances of each client and case. Some defense strategies include:

• Self-defense claims: The defense claim arises if the defendants used physical force to defend themselves. However, this defense isn’t eligible in court if the offender was the aggressor initially.

• Police misconduct or violation of defendants’ rights by law enforcement officers: Prosecutors and police can make errors resulting in problems with the validity of the evidence, for instance, using unauthorized searches to collect evidence. Unlawful traffic stops are another example.If this is the case, your defense attorney may be able to use this to your advantage or even have the charges be dropped.

• Entrapment: Entrapment is a legal defense used to argue that the defendant had no intent to commit a crime, especially when an officer has induced or persuaded an individual to engage in an unlawful act.

• False confession. Witnesses can be coerced to provide false testimony during the investigation. In such a scenario, the evidence collected is void and can’t be used in court.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chevy Chase Criminal Defense

What Is the Penalty for Simple Assault in Maryland?

Individuals charged with simple assault face a misdemeanor offense. The defendants can receive a maximum incarceration of ten years and a fine of $2,500.

What Amount of Stolen Money Is a Felony in Maryland?

Criminal law on theft in Maryland applies penalties based on the value of the stolen property. Theft involving less than $1,500 is a misdemeanor theft. Any theft involving a value greater than $1,500 is a felony or grand theft.

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Theft Crimes in Maryland?

In Maryland Statute of Limitations, charges for theft cases ranging from $100 and $1000 need to be brought within two years of the order of the crime. The State requires misdemeanors to be charged within one year from the date of the alleged crime.