Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Silver Spring, MD

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Silver Spring, Maryland?

  Contact 301-279-8000 to report non-emergencies to the local police station in Silver Spring.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Silver Spring, Maryland?

  Visit https://records-montgomerycountymd.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(xdkibdygdnsiz0s1p5utxbbm))/SupportHome.aspx?lp=2 to get a copy of the police report for incidents in Silver Spring. You can also request by mailing the completed and signed incident report request form to the Public Safety Headquarters' Records Division at: 100 Edison Park Drive Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878 Requests for incident reports through Public Safety Headquarters have been suspended until further notice.

• When can a person get arrested for theft in Silver Spring?

  A Silver Spring resident can get arrested for theft if they take something that doesn't belong to them without permission, uses lies to take a property they don't own, keep something that was stolen, lost or delivered to the wrong place, or tricks someone into giving them or taking a service without permission.

• Can Silver Spring residents keep a handgun at home?

  Yes. According to Maryland laws, Silver Spring residents can keep a handgun at home. However, if the firearm is not registered or the owner does not have a permit, it should not be taken outside. First-time offenders who did not use a firearm to perpetrate a crime may be placed on probation or face minor penalties.

• What are the consequences of having a DUI conviction in Silver Spring?

  Individuals with a DUI record in Silver Spring may face fines and jail time, depending on the severity of their conviction. They will also have additional points on their driving record, which results in penalties from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. Their insurance rates may also increase. Additionally, people whose occupation is to drive could lose their jobs.

• What are the penalties for assault in Silver Spring?

  A person accused of assault in Silver Spring that resulted in a severe physical injury may face up to 25 years in prison under Maryland law. On the other hand, an assault that has caused fear of physical harm can be punishable by a fine of up to $2,500 and a jail term of up to ten years.

• How long does it take to seal one's criminal record in Silver Spring?

  The process of sealing one's record in Silver Spring usually takes around 90 days from the day of filing for expungement. If there is an objection or appeal to the petition, the person will receive notification and may be requested to attend a court hearing. Otherwise, a court order will be issued mandating the expungement of all records related to the charges in question.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.