DNA is a like a fingerprint. It is very unique. For this reason, it often becomes the center of criminal cases and serves as rock-solid evidence for prosecutors. However, DNA is not without its flaws. One particular issue is that most people have distinct DNA that...
Maryland reports that motor vehicle thefts make up more than 10% of property crimes. Auto theft carries severe legal consequences that you need to be aware of if you are facing charges in this state. It is important to understand the potential punishment associated...
Last week, the Supreme Court of Maryland issued the much-anticipated decision concerning appellate impartiality in Belton v. State, No. 8, September Term 2022. Who knew that, when this case was appealed to the Appellate Court of Maryland on a single, straightforward...
Psychology plays a significant role in the legal system. While criminal psychologists focus on examining criminal behavior, forensic psychologists focus on clinical evaluations of those involved with the legal system. Forensic psychologists may work as...
A few weeks ago, our Editor-in-Chief, Steve Klepper, wrote a piece entitled “Mental Illness and Maryland’s Toothless Review of Criminal Sentences” regarding the unreported decision, Robbins v. State. In Robbins (Nazarian, J.), the Court lamented, in dicta, about the...
After receiving a criminal conviction in Maryland, you may have the option to pursue an appeal. An appeal provides an opportunity to challenge the outcome of your case based on legal grounds. This article examines various reasons why individuals may choose to seek an...
Eyewitness testimony plays a significant role in criminal cases, often carrying substantial weight as evidence. However, questions persist about the reliability of eyewitnesses and the potential for inaccuracies. If you are on trial for a criminal offense, it is...
The state of Maryland takes drunk driving very seriously. As a result, drivers can face stiff penalties after a drunk driving conviction, including jail time, fines, and license suspension. It is important for motorists to understand their rights and obligations in...
If you have a basic familiarity with the criminal justice system, you are probably aware that police and prosecutors both tend to represent the interests of the state. Their jobs are essentially to be the enforcers of the law and the adversaries of those who would...
Most of the time, when a defendant loses a federal criminal case, that person can appeal the decision to the Federal Court of Appeals. Cases then proceed through the appeals process until the court reaches a final decision. How does the federal appeals process work?...