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Mandatory Minimum Statutes in Maryland

October 29, 2012 by

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Mandatory minimum sentences mean that a person must serve a pre-determined minimum sentence upon conviction. Mandatory minimums most severely impact second offenders, especially in cases involving drug charges.

Mandatory Minimum Sentencing Laws Inflict Extreme Harm

The problem with these mandatory minimum laws is that they do not take into account the specific circumstances of each individual’s case. Mandatory minimums are imposed on those convicted of murder as well as those who have been arrested for victimless crimes, such as smoking marijuana. The sentences are often disproportionately harsh on the convicted person, and judges have no discretion in meting out lighter sentences in mandatory minimum cases.

Minimum sentencing laws inflict extreme punishment in some cases that is significantly out of step with a fair and just criminal justice system.

Victimless Crimes Can Be Subject to Mandatory Minimums

For example, a person who perhaps has been arrested for multiple “victimless” crimes, such as public drunkenness or marijuana use, can be locked up for many years thanks to the mandatory minimum sentencing laws. What is needed is treatment to save a life, not punishment to destroy a life at the taxpayers’ expense.

Even if you have been arrested on a minor drug or other criminal charge, it is important to retain an attorney who understands how to build a strong case in your behalf. If you have one conviction on your record, and are arrested and tried again, you may be subject to mandatory minimum sentencing in Maryland.

Crimes Requiring Mandatory Minimum Sentences

  • Second offense drug crimes
  • Firearms offenses
  • Child abuse
  • Child pornography
  • Violent crimes, including murder and homicide
  • Sex assault, including sexual offense and rape

Third Offense for Certain Drug Crimes – 25 Years No Parole

If you have been convicted as a repeat offender and are now facing a third offense for certain types of drug crimes, you could be facing a mandatory 25 years in prison without the possibility of parole.

Studies have shown that mandatory minimum sentencing laws do not prevent or deduce drug use, drug addiction, or drug selling.

Columbia, and Ellicott City Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts, including repeat offenders and mandatory minimum sentencing cases. With a solid and longstanding reputation for personal service and thorough preparation, we get many of our new cases as referrals from existing or former clients, or from other attorneys. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him.

Top Rated Criminal Lawyer Howard County, MD

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in criminal cases— has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal lawyers in Howard County.

Protect Your Freedom and Your Future—Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney

To schedule an appointment with an experienced criminal defense lawyer at the Smith Criminal Defense Law Firm, call us at 410-740-0101 or contact us online. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney Tagged With:

Criminal Lawyer Receives Client Choice Award in Lawyers Ratings

October 26, 2012 by

Outstanding Reviews Result in Award from Clients’ Lawyers Ratings
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AVVO, one of the leading lawyers ratings firm, awarded Howard County attorney Jonathan Scott Smith its “Clients Choice Award for 2012.” This award resulted from client reviews with an average of 5 stars — the highest client rating possible.

One recent client letter stated: “[O]ur family confronted a most stressful situation resulting from unsubstantiated criminal charges against my daughter. Our most immediate thought was to locate the most competent legal assistance possible — and we found it!! In my former life as Director of a Federal police force for the National Capitol Region, legal issues and police matters were a daily occurrence. …[Y]our reputation as the most worthy criminal attorney in Howard County is not only deserved but proven! You left “no stone unturned” and masterfully guided the lengthy and verbose proceedings to a brilliant conclusion: “not guilty” on all charges.” W. Lindenau, Commanding General, Military Order of Foreign Wars of the United States.

In response to receiving the Clients Choice Award, Mr. Smith stated, “We fight hard for our clients, and we are grateful that they think so highly of our work. People facing criminal charges often are under a great deal of stress, and we do everything possible to solve their problems and lift their burdens.”

Howard County Criminal Lawyer Rated “10.0 Superb” in Lawyers Ratings

Mr. Smith already achieved the highest lawyer rating “10.0 Superb” by AVVO. AVVO considers a wide variety of information in developing a lawyer’s rating, including a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Ratings range from a low of 1.0 to 10.0, the highest rating. Very few lawyers achieve the highest rating, and it is recognition of Mr. Smith’s extensive litigation experience, successful results, and the opinion of his peers.

Criminal Lawyer Howard County MD

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts. With a solid and longstanding reputation for personal service and thorough preparation, we get many of our new cases as referrals from existing or former clients, or from other attorneys. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him.

Top Rated  Criminal Defense Attorney Columbia MD and Ellicott City MD

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in criminal cases— has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating in a lawyers review and ratings process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO lawyer rating. These are the highest lawyer ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal lawyers in Howard County.

Contact Our Office

To schedule an appointment with an experienced criminal defense lawyer, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith represents clients in criminal defense matters, DUI / DWI, MVA Hearings, traffic offenses, domestic violence and child abuse charges throughout Maryland, including the cities of Columbia, Clarksville, Sykesville, Fulton, Elkridge, Frederick, Mt. Airy, Ellicott City, Laurel, Westminster, and Baltimore. Lawyer Smith also provides experienced legal representation for clients in Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Prince George’s (Prince Georges) County, Howard County and Montgomery County, MD.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney

Maryland Medical Marijuana Defense

October 12, 2012 by

Arrested for Medical Marijuana Use or Possession in Maryland?

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If you have been arrested for possession of marijuana, but you are using it out of medical necessity, Maryland law allows an affirmative medical marijuana defense. This means that medical marijuana use has reduced the potential penalty depending on the amount of marijuana in possession.

The general penalty for possession of marijuana is a sentence up to 1 year or a fine up to $500, or both. There is no jail penalty, and only a maximum of a $100 fine, if the accused possessed one ounce or less of marijuana for medical purposes and can demonstrate a legitimate medical need for the cannabis.

How do I Establish a Medical Marijuana Defense?

To establish a medical necessity defense, you must prove the following:

  • You have a “debilitating medical condition” that has been diagnosed by a physician with whom you have a “bona fide physician-patient relationship;”
  • The debilitating medical condition is severe and resistant to conventional medicine; and
  • Marijuana is likely to provide you with therapeutic or palliative relief from the debilitating medical condition.

The defense may not be used if you were using marijuana in a public place, or in possession of more than 1 ounce of marijuana.

Feds Not on Board with Medical Marijuana Use

Despite state lawmakers legalizing medical marijuana, federal law enforcement officials are not on board. For example federal prosecutors recently sent nearly 60 letters to medical marijuana clinics in Orange County, Florida, where it is legal to dispense medical marijuana, threatening criminal charges if they continued to sell medical marijuana.

What Amount Is Legal?

Those who cultivate marijuana or who have larger amounts can still raise that affirmative defense, and can have their sentence mitigated. However, this is far more difficult. Sometimes, a person who uses marijuana for medical purposes will grow many marijuana plants, so that they can have a continuous, inexpensive supply. The police may not see it that way, however.

Top Rated Howard County Drug Possession Attorney

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts, including numerous possession of marijuana and drug possession charges. With a solid and longstanding reputation for personal service and thorough preparation, we get many of our new cases as referrals from existing or former clients, or from other attorneys. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in possession of marijuana and drug possession charges, and other criminal cases— has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal lawyers in Howard County.

Contact Us

To schedule an appointment with an experienced criminal defense lawyer at the Smith Criminal Defense Law Firm, call us at 410-740-0101 or contact us online. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Marijuana Tagged With: ,

23 Men Netted in Laurel Prostitution Arrests

October 2, 2012 by

Task Force Results in Laurel Prostitution Arrests

On Thursday, September 20,  2012, law enforcement officers from the Howard County Police Department, Anne Arundel Police Department, Laurel Police Department, Maryland State Police, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations carried out a “reverse prostitution sting” operation, The Baltimore Sun reported.

As a result, 23 men were arrested; of these, 14 of the prostitution arrests were made by Howard County Police. Two of the men were Howard County residents.

Police Don’t Release Prostitution Arrest Photos from Prostitution Arrests

As is typical of Howard County prostitution arrests, police did not release prostitution arrest photos of the men arrested. In the past, Howard County Police have released the names of those subjected to prostitution arrests, but not in this case. The men who were arrested probably were relieved that neither their photos, nor their names, were released publicly.

Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts, including cases involving prostitution arrests for solicitation for prostitution and prostitution. With a solid and longstanding reputation for personal service and thorough preparation, we get many of our new cases as referrals from existing or former clients, or from other attorneys. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him.

Top Rated  Columbia and Ellicott City Prostitution Defense Attorney

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in prostitution arrests, and other criminal cases— has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the most experienced criminal lawyers in Howard County.

Contact Our Office

To schedule an appointment with an experienced criminal defense lawyer, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith represents clients in prostitution arrests, solicitation for prostitution, as well as other criminal defense matters, DUI / DWI, MVA Hearings, traffic offenses, domestic violence and child abuse charges throughout Maryland, including the cities of Columbia, Clarksville, Sykesville, Fulton, Elkridge, Frederick, Mt. Airy, Ellicott City, Laurel, Westminster, and Baltimore. Lawyer Smith also provides experienced legal representation for clients in Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Prince Georges (Prince George) County, Howard County and Montgomery County, MD.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, District Court for Howard County, Uncategorized

Embezzlement Crimes in Howard County, MD

September 24, 2012 by

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Embezzlement most often involves an individual, generally an employee, embezzling (or unlawfully taking) money or property from a business or an individual. Embezzlement and business fraud are considered white-collar crimes, because they are not violent. Nonetheless, these crimes on conviction carry harsh sentences.

Law enforcement officials are focusing more aggressively on ferreting out crimes of embezzlement and fraud, including:

  • Wire fraud
  • Mail fraud
  • Internet fraud
  • Tax embezzlement fraud
  • Identity theft and cyber crime
  • Credit card fraud
  • Forgery
  • Identity theft

Fraud Enforcement Task Force Aggressively Pursues Embezzlement Crimes

The Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force was recently established by President Barack Obama to aggressively, proactively, and with coordinated effort investigate and prosecute financial crimes. The force includes regulatory agencies, federal agencies, inspectors general, and law enforcement officials at the local and state level, all of which work together to fight embezzlement and financial fraud.

Cases: Former Fast Food Franchise President Guilty of $885,000 Wire Fraud

The task force was involved in investigating the embezzlement case involving Mark Chandler Goodnow, 55. The president and CEO of a national fast food franchise based in Severna Park, Maryland, pleaded guilty to wire fraud involving more than $885,000 from the corporation he controlled. He is now facing a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

In yet another case, a Maryland woman was sentenced to 15 months in prison after embezzling more than $900,000 from XM Satellite Radio. Valencia Person, 54, was sentenced this past August. Evidently, Person and an accomplice deposited money that was meant to go to the radio station’s vendors into the conspirator’s bank account.

Another woman, Katherine Haddaway, embezzled more than $335,000 from her former employer over a three year time period. Haddaway was found guilty in Talbot County of 37 counts of fraudulently taking money from Wayne Hilmer. There was a significant paper trail involved in the trial, with prosecutors introducing 345 exhibits to prove their case.

Embezzlement and fraud cases are complicated to prosecute and defend, often involving complex paper and cyber trails. You need to retain an attorney who has the knowledge and experience necessary to track effectively the evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Howard County

If you are under investigation for embezzlement, fraud, or any other white-collar crime, talk with an attorney at the Smith Criminal Defense Firm, in Columbia, MD. Let a former prosecutor fight for your rights and freedom. Call 410-740-0101 or email us to schedule a consultation.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Fraud Tagged With: , , , , ,

Police Investigate Howard County Burglary

September 15, 2012 by

Burglary of Columbia Business Focus of Police Investigation

On Thursday, September 14, 2012, an Allstate Insurance office was the subject of a burglary, reported The Baltimore Sun. Property was taken from the West Columbia business, including two phones, six computer towers and documents. Howard County police are investigating.

Burglary Statistics

FBI statistics reveal that there are approximately 2.1 million burglaries in the United States annually. About 75% of those are residential burglaries. Burglaries account for one quarter of all property crimes. There were 1,393 burglaries in Howard County in 2010, according to the Howard County Police Department.

What is Burglary in the First Degree in Maryland?

Under Maryland law,  a person may not break and enter the dwelling of another with the intent to commit theft or a crime of violence. This is the definition of first degree burglary. The penalty for first degree burglary is imprisonment not exceeding 20 years.

What is Second Degree Burglary in Maryland?

There are two different violations that constitute second degree burglary. First, a person may not break and enter the storehouse of another with the intent to commit theft, a crime of violence, or arson in the second degree. If he does, he is guilty of a felony and the penalty is imprisonment not exceeding 15 years. Second,  a person may not break and enter the storehouse of another with the intent to steal, take, or carry away a firearm. This also is a felony, and the penalty is imprisonment not exceeding 20 years or a fine not exceeding $10,000 or both.

Howard County Criminal Attorney and Burglary Defense Lawyer

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts, including first degree burglary and second degree burglary cases. With a solid and longstanding reputation for personal service and thorough preparation, we get many of our new cases as referrals from existing or former clients, or from other attorneys. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him.

Top Rated Howard County, Columbia, and Ellicott City Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in burglary and other criminal cases— has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal lawyers in Howard County.

Contact Our Office

To schedule an appointment with an experienced criminal defense lawyer, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith represents clients in first degree burglary, second degree burglary, and other criminal defense matters, DUI / DWI, MVA Hearings, traffic offenses, domestic violence and child abuse charges throughout Maryland, including the cities of Columbia, Clarksville, Sykesville, Fulton, Elkridge, Frederick, Mt. Airy, Ellicott City, Laurel, Westminster, and Baltimore. Lawyer Smith also provides experienced legal representation for clients in Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Prince Georges (Prince George) County, Howard County and Montgomery County, MD.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney

Authorities Target DUI Drivers on Holidays

September 10, 2012 by

Maryland has targeted Thanksgiving with mobile and stationary patrols. Additionally, the Maryland State Police’s operation “Centerpoint Strikeforce” regularly sets up checkpoints throughout the state.

The Centerpoint Strikeforce operation recently checked 130 cars near the Md. 85 and Executive Way in just a four-hour weekend-period, but no one was arrested on drunk driving charges. This particular Maryland location was chosen because of the area’s relative frequency of DUI arrests and crashes involving alcohol.

Interestingly, the American Beverage Institute notes a University of Maryland study (2009) that indicates sobriety checkpoints do not in fact affect drivers’ actions. Rather, research seems to indicate that roving police cars tend to make more DUI arrests.

Throughout the United States authorities have been cracking down on DUI drivers just before and during holidays. For those interested, it is possible to find the location of these DUI police checkpoints online, through websites devoted specifically to tracking DUI checkpoints. Also, police departments often announce their plans to conduct sobriety checkpoints (but not the locations).

Holidays such as Labor Day typically have more drunk-driving related crashes. For instance, during Labor Day weekend in 2010, 147 people died as a result of car crashes that involved a drunk driver.

Accused of DUI or DWI in MD? Contact an Experience Criminal Defense Attorney

To schedule an appointment with an experienced criminal defense lawyer at the Smith Criminal Defense Firm in Columbia, Maryland, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Drunk Driving, DUI, DWI, MVA Hearing Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Columbia Woman Cleared of 69 Animal Abuse and Neglect Charges

September 8, 2012 by

Howard County Animal Abuse and Neglect Charges Filed

Elizabeth M. Lindenau of Columbia, Maryland was charged in Howard County with 69 counts of animal abuse and neglect, and animal cruelty charges. The accusations arose out of 20 birds, rabbits and cats found deceased in a townhouse leased to Ms. Lindenau and her husband.

Prosecutors presented a plea offer insisting that the accused plead guilty to numerous felony and misdemeanor animal abuse, animal neglect, and animal cruelty charges, and serve time in jail. Howard County criminal lawyer Jonathan Scott Smith represented Ms. Lindenau, rejected the plea offer, and demanded her day in court.

What is Animal Abuse and Neglect?

Under Maryland law, a person may not: (1) overdrive or overload an animal; (2) deprive an animal of necessary sustenance; (3) inflict unnecessary suffering or pain on an animal; (4) cause, procure, or authorize an act prohibited under item (1), (2), or (3); or (5) if the person has charge or custody of an animal, as owner or otherwise, unnecessarily fail to provide the animal with nutritious food in sufficient quantity, necessary veterinary care, proper drink, air, space, shelter, or protection from the weather.

The crime is a misdemeanor, and the penalty is imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

What is Animal Cruelty?

Under Maryland law, a person may not: (1) intentionally mutilate, torture, cruelly beat, or cruelly kill an animal; (2) cause, procure, or authorize an act prohibited under item (1); or (3) except in the case of self-defense, intentionally inflict bodily harm, permanent disability, or death on an animal owned or used by a law enforcement unit.
Animal cruelty is a felony, and on conviction a person is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.

Judge Acquits Woman Accused of Animal Cruelty Charges

On August 22, 2012, the trial began in the Circuit Court for Howard County before Judge Louis A. Becker and a jury. The judge acquitted Ms. Lindenau of all animal cruelty charges, finding that there was no evidence that she was aware that the animals were suffering. Additional animal abuse and neglect charges were thrown out for lack of evidence.

Jury Returns Not Guilty Verdicts on All Animal Neglect Charges

Ms. Lindenau presented substantial evidence that she had moved from the townhouse where the animals died months before. After 11 days of testimony, the jury found her not guilty of the 18 remaining charges of animal neglect. After the verdict, Ms. Lindenau stated: “I am relieved that the jury was willing to listen to the facts, and see past the emotional nature of this tragedy… I loved all of the animals, and it broke my heart that they died.”

Maryland Criminal Defense and Animal Abuse and Neglect Lawyer

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts, including animal abuse and neglect, and animal cruelty charges. With a solid and longstanding reputation for personal service and thorough preparation, we get many of our new cases as referrals from existing or former clients, or from other attorneys. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him.

Top Rated Howard County, Columbia, and Ellicott City Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in criminal cases— has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal lawyers in Howard County.

Contact Our Office

To schedule an appointment with an experienced criminal defense lawyer, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith represents clients in criminal defense matters, DUI / DWI, MVA Hearings, traffic offenses, domestic violence and child abuse charges throughout Maryland, including the cities of Columbia, Clarksville, Sykesville, Fulton, Elkridge, Frederick, Mt. Airy, Ellicott City, Laurel, Westminster, and Baltimore. Lawyer Smith also provides experienced legal representation for clients in Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Prince Georges (Prince George) County, Howard County and Montgomery County, MD.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Uncategorized

Expungement of Criminal Records in Maryland

August 17, 2012 by

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Were you that information regarding the criminal charge and/or court proceeding is accessible to the public, employers and others? Would you like to know more about clearing your criminal record? In many instances, individuals can have their criminal records in Maryland cleared or “expunged.” Expungement is the destruction of the records, or removal of records from public inspection.

In Maryland, many records and files may be expunged from public viewing, including:

  • Motor Vehicle Administration driving records
  • Police files
  • Court files
  • Probation files

Howard County Expungement Lawyer

Expungement of records is a complicated process that is most easily done with the assistance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith of the Smith Criminal Defense Firm has successfully expunged records for many clients. At our office we can:

  • Prepare your Petition for Expungement and related papers
  • File your documents and required copies
  • Appear in court to petition your Expungement
  • Follow-up and ensure all agencies expunge the records

When Your Record is Expunged, Potential Employers Won’t See Your Record

A criminal record can cause many problems in your life. The most serious and immediate problem will likely be employment issues.

Attorney Smith has practiced criminal law for over three decades and has successfully helped many people by expunging their records and eliminating barriers to employment. He also has a well-earned reputation for providing the personal service and thorough preparation needed to complete the expungement of records. Contact us online or call 410-740-0101. Let us help you with expungement today.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Expungement Tagged With:

Howard County Police to Conduct DUI Checkpoint

August 16, 2012 by

Sobriety Checkpoint Scheduled by Howard County Police

The Howard County Police Department announced that it will conduct a DUI checkpoint this coming weekend. The department conducts several dui checkpoints each year. The checkpoint will be clearly marked with signs, lights and uniformed officers. Officers will utilize both marked and unmarked vehicles, and will be checking for violations including driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired, and other DUI/DWI violations.

Howard County DUI/DWI’s

In 2011, Howard County Police arrested 1,391 individuals for driving under the influence. In 2011, 25 percent of Howard County’s fatal collisions were alcohol related. Drinking and driving carries harsh penalties.

DUI Checkpoints and Constitutional Protections

A DUI checkpoint allows police officers to observe drivers and their cars for evidence of drunk driving. Under the law, police cannot stop a vehicle unless there is a “reasonable and articulable suspicion” that the driver or the vehicle is violating the law. Sobriety checkpoints involve the stopping of vehicles without this showing.

Many states outlaw the sobriety checkpoints. DUI checkpoints may violate an innocent driver’s constitutional rights.

Ellicott City, Columbia, and Howard County Drunk Driving Lawyer

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith is a top rated drunk driving lawyer and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of experience in criminal law and drunk driving cases. Before going into private practice, attorney Smith worked as a Maryland prosecutor and learned how the state prepares criminal matters. He has handled 1,000’s of drunk driving cases.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal defense and DUI drunk driving attorneys in Columbia, Ellicott City, and Howard County.

Contact Our Office for Aggressive DUI Defense

Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to work for you.  To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

 

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, District Court for Howard County, Drunk Driving, DUI, DWI, MVA Hearing, traffic charges

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  • Jonathan Scott Smith 10490 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite 200 ,Columbia, MD 21044-4960

  • Call for consultation 410-740-0101

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