Criminal Procedure

Criminal procedure refers to the set of rules and regulations that govern the legal processes followed in the investigation, prosecution, and adjudication of criminal offenses. It outlines the steps and safeguards that must be observed by law enforcement, prosecutors, and courts to ensure fairness, protect individual rights, and uphold the principles of justice. Criminal procedure encompasses various stages, including arrest, search and seizure, interrogation, bail, arraignment, discovery, trial, sentencing, and appeals. It establishes the framework for balancing the interests of society in punishing criminal conduct with the need to safeguard the rights of individuals accused of crimes. The goal of criminal procedure is to maintain due process, ensure the integrity of the legal system, and safeguard against unlawful actions or abuses by the authorities, ultimately striving for a just and equitable resolution of criminal cases.

Double Jeopardy: Understanding Your Rights Against Being Tried Twice for the Same Crime

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Baltimore County, MD, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and protections under the U.S. Constitution. One of these fundamental safeguards is the Double Jeopardy clause, which shields individuals from being prosecuted or punished twice for the same offense. What is Double Jeopardy? The Double Jeopardy clause,

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Double jeopardy attorney Stephen P. Shepard in Baltimore County, MD

An Overview of an Initial Appearance in Maryland

For anyone involved in the criminal justice system for the first time, the process can feel extremely overwhelming and confusing. As a criminal defense attorney in Towson, Maryland, I regularly guide clients through this maze. One crucial step is the ‘initial appearance.’ This blog post will provide an overview of an initial appearance in Maryland.

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Initial appearance attorney lawyer Stephen P. Shepard in Towson, Maryland Baltimore County

Understanding Hearsay in Maryland: A Guide for Non-Lawyers

Introduction In the world of law, there are several concepts that might seem complicated and confusing to the layman. One such term is ‘hearsay.’ While this term is thrown around a lot on popular TV shows and movies, it is not often clearly explained. This blog post will serve as your guide to understanding hearsay

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Hearsay criminal defense attorney Towson, MD Baltimore Stephen P. Shepard

Understanding the Marital Privilege in Maryland Law: A Simple Guide

Introduction Legal jargon can be intimidating and sometimes baffling, particularly when it comes to court testimonies and privileges. One such privilege, and the topic of our discussion today, is the marital privilege. This post aims to explain this concept in plain language, focusing on its application in Maryland. What is Marital Privilege? In law, a

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Marital privilege attorney Stephen P. Shepard Baltimore County, MD Towson

The Value of Expungement: Clearing Your Criminal Record in Maryland

In the field of criminal defense, one of the most powerful tools we can offer our clients is the expungement of their criminal records. This procedure, which essentially “erases” specific types of convictions or charges from public view, can be a game-changer in one’s personal and professional life. In Maryland, understanding the importance of getting

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Towson, MD expungement attorney Stephen P. Shepard in Baltimore County, MD
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