Criminal Defense Attorney in Towson, MD

Being convicted of a crime will have a lasting impact on your life. From leases to employment, a criminal record can affect a wide variety of avenues for your future. However, before you can be convicted, you must be tried in a court of law. Having a qualified criminal defense lawyer in Towson, MD will make all the difference in the world.

Whether this is your first time being charged, or you’ve been in trouble with the law before, Albers & Associates is here to help. We have an extensive background with DUIs and other areas of criminal defense. So, when you work with us, you can trust that we will protect you to the fullest extent of our power.

Call (410) 927-5717 or contact us online today to let our Towson criminal defense attorney protect your rights, reputation, and future.

Common Types of Crimes We Handle

In Maryland, a crime refers to an act that violates state laws and is punishable by fines, imprisonment, probation, or other penalties. The penalties for these offenses can vary widely depending on the severity of the crime, the individual's criminal history, and other mitigating or aggravating circumstances involved in the case.

There are two main types of criminal offenses: misdemeanors and felonies. While a felony offense is more serious than a misdemeanor, a misdemeanor conviction can still result in harsh criminal penalties, including a jail sentence and fines worth hundreds or thousands of dollars. A felony conviction, on the other hand, is punishable by state imprisonment, rather than time spent in county jail.

Some of the areas of criminal defense that we can handle include but are not limited to:

• Assault: Assault can range from threatening behavior to physical harm against another person, varying in degrees of severity. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances.
• Drug Crimes: These involve the illegal possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or prescription drugs without a valid prescription.
• Traffic Tickets and Violations: Traffic violations cover a wide range of offenses, including speeding, reckless driving, driving without a license, running red lights, and more. Penalties can include fines, license suspension, or mandatory traffic school.
• Marijuana Charges: While the laws around marijuana have evolved, possessing, selling, or cultivating marijuana in quantities outside legal limits can still result in charges and penalties.
• Resisting Arrest: Resisting arrest involves obstructing or opposing a law enforcement officer's lawful execution of their duties, such as refusing to comply with lawful orders or attempting to evade arrest.
• Burglary Charges: Burglary refers to unlawfully entering a structure with the intent to commit a theft or any other crime. The severity of the charge often depends on factors like whether the structure was occupied and if force was used.
• Probation Violation: Violating the terms and conditions of probation can lead to serious consequences, including revocation of probation and potential imprisonment.

What Are the Benefits of Working With an Attorney?

For criminal cases in the United States, you have a right to have a lawyer defend you. However, if you do not secure a lawyer yourself, one will be appointed to you. Though this may seem like a convenient option, this isn't always the case. Public defenders are often great lawyers who are bogged down with a heavy caseload and long hours. Private lawyers that you hire yourself will take your case because they know that they can serve you effectively, not because they have to.

Here are several other benefits of hiring a private criminal defense attorney:

• Legal Knowledge: Criminal defense attorneys possess a deep understanding of criminal law, courtroom procedures, and local court systems. Their knowledge allows them to navigate the complexities of the legal process effectively.
• Case Assessment: A skilled defense lawyer can assess the details of your case, including evidence, witness statements, and police reports. They can identify potential weaknesses or errors in the prosecution's case and develop a strategic defense accordingly.
• Protection of Rights: Your attorney will ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. They will advise you on what to say or not say to law enforcement, protect you from self-incrimination, and safeguard your constitutional rights.
• Negotiation Skills: Defense attorneys often negotiate with prosecutors to secure plea bargains or reduced charges, potentially minimizing the penalties or consequences you might face if convicted.
• Courtroom Representation: If your case goes to trial, having a skilled criminal defense lawyer means having a professional to represent your interests in court. They will present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf.
• Access to Resources: Lawyers have access to various resources, including investigators, expert witnesses, and support staff, which can bolster your defense by gathering additional evidence or providing expert testimony.
• Strategic Planning: Developing a strategic defense is crucial in criminal cases. A defense attorney can analyze the circumstances of your case and create a tailored defense strategy based on their experience and legal knowledge.
• Minimization of Penalties: Even if a conviction is unavoidable, a defense lawyer can work to minimize the potential penalties, such as reduced jail time, lesser fines, or alternatives to incarceration like probation or community service.
• Emotional Support: Facing criminal charges is incredibly stressful. A defense lawyer can provide guidance, support, and reassurance during what can be a challenging and overwhelming time.

If you are facing criminal charges, no matter how serious, you need to know that your lawyer is going to address your case with the time and dedication you deserve. For a criminal defense lawyer in Towson, Maryland, look no further than Albers & Associates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense

What Should I Do Immediately After Being Arrested?

If you are arrested, it's critical to remain calm and remember your rights. First, exercise your right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination—only provide personal identification details. Inform the arresting officers that you wish to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. Contacting a criminal defense attorney from Albers & Associates as soon as possible can ensure that your rights are protected, and they can begin assessing your situation to plan an appropriate defense strategy. Do not attempt to explain yourself or resist arrest, as this can complicate your legal situation.

How Can a Lawyer Assist Me During a Criminal Investigation?

Having legal representation during a criminal investigation can significantly impact the proceedings. A criminal defense lawyer will interact with law enforcement on your behalf, safeguarding against possible rights violations and ensuring due process is followed. They can provide guidance on interacting with investigators, managing negotiations, and preventing you from making incriminating statements. Their strategic involvement at this stage can influence the evidence gathered and provide a foundation for a strong defense, potentially reducing the severity of charges or avoiding them altogether.

What Are the Penalties for a Felony Conviction in Maryland?

Felonies in Maryland carry severe penalties, including extensive prison time, significant fines, and long-term implications like loss of voting rights and impediments to employment. The precise penalties depend on the nature of the felony, including factors such as past convictions and the specifics of the offense. At Albers & Associates, we advise on potential outcomes based on case details and advocate for mitigating penalties through plea negotiations or alternative sentencing. We aim to minimize the impact on your life while pursuing justice efficiently.

Can I Have My Criminal Record Expunged?

Maryland law allows certain offenses to be expunged, particularly if charges were dropped, you were acquitted, or you completed a probation before judgment. The process involves filing a petition, and eligibility can be influenced by the time elapsed since the conviction and ongoing legal situations. Expungement removes specific offenses from public records, alleviating barriers associated with criminal records, such as employment difficulties. At Albers & Associates, our legal team can evaluate your record's eligibility and guide you through the expungement process promptly and effectively.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Attorney in Towson Today

Whether you're being charged with a felony or a misdemeanor, the effects of a conviction will be felt throughout your life. If you are convicted of a felony, you will lose the right to vote, may face problems finding gainful employment, and may even be turned away from potential housing. If your job requires you to obtain and maintain a security clearance, you will almost certainly run into problems. Even if you are only convicted of a misdemeanor, the nature of said misdemeanor may affect a commercial license, immigration status, and other areas.

To discuss the particulars of your case with us, contact us today to set up a free consultation. We are conveniently located throughout Maryland with offices in Westminster, Towson, Columbia, and Frederick. Don't lose another night of sleep.

Contact us today to get started with our criminal defense lawyer in Towson.