Many in Maryland might find it difficult to not view a claim of self-defense with anything but skepticism. That likely comes from the idea that such an assertion is simply too convenient given the context. Yet it is that very context that may indeed justify one's...
Maryland considers first-degree murder the most serious type of homicide, i.e., causing the death of another human being, that a perpetrator can commit. FindLaw explains that Section 2-201 of the Maryland Criminal Law Code defines first-degree murder as the willful...
Expungement is the process of sealing a criminal record so the information no longer shows through most types of background checks. It is not available to everyone and does not apply to all situations. According to the Congressional Research Service, states typically...
When crime scene investigators gather evidence, they often take it to a lab for processing. They try to connect the hair samples, shoe prints or blood spatters they found at the crime scene to the suspect or potential perpetrator. Yet, some tests run by scientists may...
When it comes to criminal cases, courts consider DNA evidence as a reliable indication of a person's guilt or innocence. A technician will collect DNA samples at the scene of the crime, take them to a lab, and test them to look for a potential match. When there is a...
DNA was a breakthrough when law enforcement first began using it to identify suspects. The technology has also increased and improved by leaps and bounds. However, despite its high-tech nature, DNA is not infallible. The US Department of Justice explains human error...
Bribery is the acceptance of anything of value in exchange for influence over the actions of someone holding a public or legal duty. Bribery can take the form of money, favors or other gifts of value. Bribery cases typically involve people in public office, police or...
According to the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration, there are a variety of criminal and administrative penalties for driving under the influence in the state. These penalties may result in jail time, fines, license suspension, and...
Being the subject of a criminal investigation can be harrowing. Even if you are innocent of the crime that police are investigating, you may have reason to be extremely concerned. This type of situation can seem fraught with uncertainty, but your plan of action needs...
A drug conviction has the potential to set you back in many areas of your life. It may hurt your family and your bank account, for starters. It may, too, leave you facing time behind bars, which may hinder your ability to hold down a job. However, depending on...