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.
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 […]
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
Why You Should Get an Early Expungement in Baltimore County, MD Read More »
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Baltimore County, MD, you know how stressful the legal process can be. From the arrest to posting bail to searching for the right defense attorney, it’s an intimidating experience. One of the most important things you must do is show up for all of your scheduled court
What Happens if I Miss My Court Date in Maryland? Read More »
If you’ve been hit with a bench warrant in Baltimore County, Maryland, it’s important to take prompt action. A bench warrant is a court order issued by a judge for your arrest when you fail to appear for a scheduled court date or violate conditions of your release. It’s a serious matter that shouldn’t be
What Can I Do About a Bench Warrant in Maryland? Read More »
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,
Double Jeopardy: Understanding Your Rights Against Being Tried Twice for the Same Crime Read More »
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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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
Understanding Hearsay in Maryland: A Guide for Non-Lawyers Read More »
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 Maryland’s Marital Privilege? In law,
Understanding the Marital Privilege in Maryland Law: A Simple Guide Read More »
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
The Value of Expungement: Clearing Your Criminal Record in Maryland Read More »
The exigent circumstances exception to the warrant requirement of the Fourth Amendment allows the police to conduct a search or seizure without first obtaining a warrant if there is an urgent need to do so to prevent serious harm, the destruction of evidence, or the escape of a suspect. In other words, if there is
What is the Exigent Circumstances Exception? Read More »
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