Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Bethesda

FAQs

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

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

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

  Go to https://records-montgomerycountymd.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(nsiqw4ifipjxpzxkyvb1kf53))/Supporthome.aspx?sSessionID=1361583747IZQLDGXDCLTFEOFLODAODGYUXFSHJV to get a copy of the police report for incidents in Bethesda. You can also mail requests to the Public Safety Headquarters Records Division at 100 Edison Park Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878. Additionally, you can email them at records.mcpd@montgomerycountymd.gov or call 240-773-5330 for further assistance.

• Are there always DUI checkpoints in Bethesda?

  DUI checkpoints are not commonly established due to their high cost, but they are usually deployed during holidays such as the summer season and the Super Bowl. Checkpoints are also set up when schools are back in session, as police often spot people driving under the influence late at night. Downtown Bethesda is a common location for sobriety checkpoints. It's worth noting that a driver can be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol content is .08% or above.

• Is it legal to carry marijuana in Bethesda?

  Yes. In Bethesda, it is legal to have less than 10 grams of marijuana in your possession. If the amount exceeds this limit, a first-time violation may result in a $50 fine, while a second offense may lead to a $125 fine. The penalty for a third offense will be determined by the court. However, carrying drug paraphernalia is illegal.

• What are the penalties for assault charges in Bethesda?

  In Bethesda, assaulting someone with a firearm carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. Second-degree assault can result in a $2,500 fine and up to 10 years in jail. Additionally, the defendant may be punished with a $5,000 fine and up to 10 years in prison if the victim is a police officer.

• What is the process for posting bail in Bethesda?

  A defendant or an individual at least 18 years old can post the bail amount directly to the court in Bethesda. One may post only 10% if the bail amount is $2,500 or less. It will be refunded if the person shows up in all court proceedings. Otherwise, the 10% will be forfeited, and the one who paid it will be held accountable for the remaining amount.

• Who are eligible to have their criminal records sealed in Bethesda?

  In Bethesda, criminal records can be sealed for people whose charges were dropped or dismissed, who were found not guilty, or who were not criminally responsible for minor offenses. Defendants with inactive cases, juveniles transferred from adult court, and persons under probation before judgment are also allowed to undergo the expungement process.

• 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.