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.

Understanding the Three Levels of Pre-Trial Release in Baltimore County

Criminal Procedure / By / 6 minutes of reading

If you or a loved one has been arrested in Baltimore County, Maryland, understanding the pre-trial release process is critical to securing your freedom while awaiting trial. Baltimore County operates a structured pre-trial supervision system with three distinct levels, each with specific requirements and restrictions. At Shepard Law, we help clients navigate these requirements and […]

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Voir Dire: Understanding Maryland’s Jury Selection Process

Criminal Procedure / By / 4 minutes of reading

Facing criminal charges in Baltimore County, Maryland is an overwhelming experience. One crucial aspect of any criminal jury trial involves voir dire, which is the process of jury selection. Shepard Law works diligently to protect each client’s constitutional right to a fair and impartial jury through effective voir dire. This fundamental right is guaranteed under

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voir dire attorney Stephen P. Shepard of Shepard Law

Understanding Franks Hearings: Your Rights Under the Fourth Amendment

Criminal Procedure / By / 3 minutes of reading

The Fourth Amendment protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures, requiring law enforcement to obtain valid search warrants based on truthful information. A Franks hearing provides defendants with an important constitutional safeguard when questions arise about the truthfulness of information used to obtain a search warrant. What is a Franks Hearing? A Franks hearing, established

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What is a PBJ(c) and Why You Need One: Protecting Your Future and Keeping Families Together

Criminal Procedure / By / 3 minutes of reading

If you’re facing criminal charges in Baltimore County, Maryland or elsewhere in the State, especially if you’re not a U.S. citizen, you may have heard the term “PBJ(c)” thrown around. But what exactly is it, and why could it be crucial for your future? At Shepard Law, we’re here to explain this important legal option

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criminal defense lawyer stephen p. shepard has experience helpings clients get a pbj(c) disposition in Baltimore County, Maryland

Why You Should Get an Early Expungement in Baltimore County, MD

Criminal Procedure / By / 4 minutes of reading

A criminal record can have serious, long-lasting consequences on your life. Even minor offenses can make it difficult to find employment, secure housing, or access other opportunities. The good news is that in Maryland, you may be able to get your record expunged through a legal process. And in some cases, you may even be

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

Criminal Procedure / By / 3 minutes of reading

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

Criminal Procedure / By / 4 minutes of reading

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

Criminal Procedure / By / 3 minutes of reading

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
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