After a long week at work, it sometimes feels good to kick back with your buddies and hit a few bars. Everyone is having fun, trading stories and having some laughs.But sometimes, a fun night out with friends can go wrong. It may be a perceived insult or a misunderstanding. Before you know it, fists…

In the U.S. legal system, anyone accused of a criminal offense is considered innocent until proven guilty. This is called the presumption of innocence. This means that the state must prove that the accused committed the crime before any punishment can be given.The accused does not have to prove they are innocent. The burden is…

Arson is one of the most serious property crimes that is prosecuted in Maryland. As a result, those who have been charged with this offense risk severe criminal penalties if they don’t present a strong legal defense.If you are facing an arson charge, one key issue that could make or break your case involves whether…

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “You have the right to remain silent,” on TV crime shows. That line comes from your Miranda rights. These rights protect you during police questioning, but they don’t apply in every situation.Understanding your Miranda rightsThe U.S. Supreme Court established Miranda rights in Miranda v. Arizona. These rights include your ability…

Evidence is significant in criminal cases, but its use depends on the chain of custody. This process keeps evidence safe and unchanged from collection to court. In Maryland, prosecutors need a proper chain of custody to win cases, and defense attorneys use it to challenge evidence.How does chain of custody work?Chain of custody tracks evidence…

Every minute counts when a child is lost. As adults, the law expects you to take reasonable steps to care for the child and ensure their safety. Still, a well-intentioned act to help can quickly land you in legal trouble.Under certain circumstances, you may encounter kidnapping accusations after trying to lend a helping hand to…

Imagine this: you’re out for a night on the town when suddenly, nature calls. There’s no bathroom in sight and the urge to duck behind a bush grows stronger by the second. Before you give in, consider this: public urination in Maryland isn’t just embarrassing – it’s illegal. What seems like a quick fix could…

The police pulling you over for suspected drunk driving can be a very stressful experience. If you add a firearm to the mix, the situation may grow even more complex.Maryland has strict laws regarding both drunk driving and gun possession. Understanding these laws can help you navigate a potentially dangerous situation.Possible consequences of carrying a…

Laser pointers help professionals highlight key points during presentations and lectures, while children often use them for amusement. However, most laser pointers on the market emit power beyond regulatory limits. Despite their seemingly harmless appearance, misusing laser pointers can lead to real, significant harm and severe legal consequences.The unexpected dangers of laser pointersWhen targeted by…

Porch piracy, the act of stealing deliveries from someone’s doorstep, has seen an increase along with the surge in online shopping. This offense is no small matter. Mail theft is a federal crime and soon, potentially, a felony. Across the country, authorities are intensifying efforts to crack down on these thefts with Maryland following suit.Maryland’s…