Criminal Defense Lawyers in Pikesville, MD Defending Individuals Against Criminal Charges 

If you have been charged with a criminal offense, you need the assistance of a criminal defense attorney who knows how to fight the charges against you and protect your future. Any type of criminal charge is serious and can have potentially long-lasting consequences. Depending on the nature and the severity of the crime that you have been charged with, you run the risk of having to spend time in jail and/or pay a serious fine.

If this is your first time ever being charged with a crime, the entire judicial process can be very scary and overwhelming. Our expert criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A., can explain all of the steps and procedures involved with the judicial process and what you can expect every step of the way. Contact us at (410) 484-0400 and schedule a free initial consultation with one of our criminal defense attorneys.

What is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony? 

Criminal acts are classified into two distinct categories: misdemeanors and felonies.

Misdemeanors are considered to be the less serious of the two categories. Nevertheless, misdemeanor convictions can still cause you to have to spend time in jail, be placed on probation, or pay a hefty fine.

Some crimes that can be classified as misdemeanors are as follows:

• Shoplifting
• Traffic violations such as driving on a suspended license or receiving a speeding ticket for reckless driving
• Disorderly conduct
• DUI

Felonies are far more serious in nature, and the penalties if convicted are far more severe than those for misdemeanors. Felony charges can result in an individual being sentenced to at least one year in jail. Some examples of felonies include:

• Rape
• Burglary
• Homicide
• Other violent crimes

Will I Have to Go to Court After Being Charged With a Crime in Maryland?

If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, then, yes, most likely, you will have to go to court in order to face the charges that have been brought against you. During the course of the criminal proceedings, you will most likely be required to appear multiple times for various court procedures such as first appearance and arraignment. You will also be required to appear at status conferences that are held before a case goes to trial if your case makes it that far.

If you fail to show up for a court date, you risk being charged with failure to appear, another serious criminal charge that can put you at risk of having your bond revoked (if applicable). The judge can also issue a warrant for your arrest, and once found, you may have to sit in jail until your next court hearing without any opportunity to be released on bond.

What is the Difference Between a Dismissal and an Expungement of a Charge?

If your case is dismissed, that basically means that the prosecutor has decided to drop the case. Often, this can occur after the prosecutor has reviewed your case and made a determination that the evidence that has been presented is not strong enough to proceed.

There are also certain circumstances in which a case can be dismissed if you attend specific classes or perform community service.

Expungement occurs when your case has been permanently erased from your criminal record. All court records that are related to your criminal case are destroyed, giving you the opportunity to truthfully say that you have never been convicted of a crime on job or loan applications.

It should be noted that expungements are exceedingly difficult to acquire. However, with the assistance of a qualified defense attorney, it is possible. A criminal defense attorney can navigate through all of the complex laws that surround a criminal history and expungements.

Why Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in Pikesville, MD?

Being charged with a criminal offense is profoundly serious and a very scary position to be in. There is a great deal of uncertainty and fear of the unknown. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A. are dedicated to helping you through each step of the criminal justice system.

We recognize that good people can make mistakes. We strive to treat each client with the respect and compassion that they deserve. We are dedicated to achieving a possible outcome that is fully favorable to you. Contact our law offices by calling (410) 484-0400 and scheduling a free consultation. We look forward to reviewing your case and assisting you through the legal process.