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Weapons Charges Legal Defense Attorney in Columbia, Maryland

June 20, 2012 by

weapons
Have you been charged with a weapons charge in Maryland? Prosecutors work aggressively to prosecute alleged weapons laws violators. Do not take on prosecutors without experienced legal assistance. Contact attorney Jonathan Scott Smith of the Smith Criminal Defense Firm.

Mr. Smith has handled hundreds of criminal cases in Maryland, both as a criminal defense lawyer and as a prosecutor. Have you been charged with:

  • Aggravated assault?
  • Carrying a firearm without a permit, or carrying a concealed handgun?
  • Felon in possession?
  • Assault with a dangerous weapon?
  • A weapons charge in conjunction with a drug crime, theft or other crime?

Tough Penalties for Weapons Charges

Under Maryland sentencing guidelines, crimes that involve a gun can lead to increased jail time and other legal penalties. More information regarding Maryland gun laws.

Once convicted of a weapons charge, you may face consequences of your weapons charge conviction that may affect the rest of your life. At the Smith Criminal Defense Firm, we understand that your future hinges on the outcome of your criminal case.

Ellicott City and Columbia Weapons Defense Lawyer

We are experienced in handling weapons charge cases and can conduct the in-depth investigation needed to build an effective defense. Attorney Smith has tried hundreds of criminal cases to verdict, including numerous criminal jury trials.

Highly Rated Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience, including weapons and gun cases. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts, including Howard County. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him. Mr. Smith’s results speak for themselves.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in deadly weapon, gun, firearm, and other criminal cases — has earned him the recognition of the legal community, 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 defense attorneys in Howard County.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith represents clients in weapons 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.

Contact Us

To schedule an appointment with an experienced weapons lawyer and criminal defense attorney, 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, deportation, District Court for Howard County, illega possession of firearm, illegal possession of firearm, illegal possession of handgun, possession of firearm, possession of firearm on school property, possession of handgun on school property Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Top 5 Reasons to Retain a Local Criminal Defense Attorney in Maryland

May 22, 2012 by

Criminal Defense in Columbia, Ellicott City, and Howard County, MD

scales-of-justice
Being charged with a crime is serious. Your reputation, your finances and even your freedom may be at stake. So if you have been charged with a crime in Maryland, your first question may well be: “Which criminal defense lawyer should I retain?”

The first question you need to ask yourself is whether to retain a local criminal defense attorney, or whether you want to bring in a criminal defense attorney from out of town. The reference to “local criminal defense attorney” refers to someone with actual experience in the courtroom where you will be facing trial. Retaining a local criminal defense lawyer has some distinct advantages.

Here are the top five reasons why you should consider retaining the services of a local lawyer:

  • Reason #1: You should hire a local Maryland criminal defense attorney to defend you against criminal charges because each court has their local rules and customs that an out-of-town attorney may not be familiar with and may inadvertently jeopardize your defense.
  • Reason #2: You should hire a local attorney to defend you against criminal charges because a local attorney will likely have an established relationship with the court, and have earned a reputation for trustworthiness and ethical representation, which can help provide you with an excellent defense.
  • Reason #3: You should hire a local attorney to defend you against criminal charges because an attorney who is familiar with the tendencies of a judge and a court will be in a better position to evaluate your defense and properly advise you regarding taking the stand.
  • Reason #4: You should hire a local attorney to defend you against criminal charges because your attorney would be from the same area as the prosecuting attorney, and therefore in a better position to convey your side of the case more effectively and determine whether a favorable plea agreement can be reached.
  • Reason #5: You should hire a local attorney to defend you against criminal charges because if your case goes to trial, a jury of your peers will be selected, and a local lawyer may be in a better position to understand and communicate with those jurors than an attorney from out-of-town.

Of course, these reasons are all premised on having a local attorney who has experience, integrity and the proper attitude and caring to provide you with excellent representation and service.

Howard County, Columbia, and Ellicott City Criminal Lawyer

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith is a top rated former criminal prosecutor, with over 30 years of courtroom experience in numerous criminal courts throughout the Baltimore area, including Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Prince Georges (Prince George) County, Howard County and Montgomery County. He has handled thousands of criminal defense cases, and chances are excellent he has tried cases in the same courtroom, with the same judge, and knows the prosecuting attorney who will be handling your case. You can see what many satisfied clients have to say about the job he did for them. In addition, you can check the results in real cases he has handled.

Highly Rated Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in domestic violence, domestic assault, and other criminal cases — has earned him the recognition of the legal community, 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 defense attorneys in Howard County.

Contact Our Office

To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to work 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: Assault, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, illegal possession of handgun, possession of firearm, reckless driving, Restraining Order, traffic charges Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

What to do When Charged with Possession of Marijuana in Maryland

May 12, 2012 by

Possession of Marijuana Charges

Recent arrest were 1,638,846 arrests for drug violations annually in the United States. Many of these involved charges for possession of marijuana.

What is Possession of Marijuana?

Under Maryland law, it is a criminal violation to possess a controlled dangerous substance. The definition of controlled dangerous substance includes marijuana. Possession may either be “actual” or “constructive.” Actual possession means that the drugs on located on your person. Constructive possession means that the drugs may not be directly on your person, but you have knowledge of the drugs’ existence and the ability to exercise control over it. More than one person can be guilty of constructively possessing the same drugs.

What are the Penalties for Possession of Marijuana in Maryland?

A person convicted in Maryland for possession of marijuana may be sentenced to one year in jail, and fined $1,000.00, or both.

If you are charged with possession of marijuana, you should seek an experienced Maryland criminal defense lawyer.

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 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 possession of marijuana, 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

Domestic Assault Charges Dismissed During Trial

May 9, 2012 by

Howard County Domestic Assault Trial
A 37-year old program manager for a major defense contractor was arrested by Howard County Police and charged with domestic assault after an argument with his wife. The accused rejected a plea offer and demanded his constitutional right to fight the charges in a trial. The case was tried in the District Court for Howard County.

Prosecutor Dismisses Domestic Assault Charges During Trial

When the case proceeded to trial, the prosecutor called the wife as the prosecution’s first witness. Jonathan Scott Smith, a Howard County domestic assault lawyer representing the husband, cross-examined the complaining witness. Mr. Smith aggressively questioned the wife about her history of filing domestic violence charges in prior relationships. Her testimony about the day of the alleged domestic assault, and the way the altercation supposedly happened, was so confusing and muddled that the prosecutor abruptly dismissed the charges in the middle of cross-examination.

What is Domestic Violence Assault?

Under Maryland law, a second degree assault (which includes what is commonly referred to as “domestic assault” or “domestic violence assault”) occurs when someone places the victim in reasonable fear of an imminent harmful or offensive touching, and the actor has the present apparent ability to carry out the threat. Assault also includes the consummated act of battery, which is an intentional harmful or offensive touching.

Penalties for Domestic Assault

Second degree assault is a misdemeanor. If convicted, the court may impose a sentence up to 10 years imprisonment, a $10,000.00 fine, or both. A conviction can have many other devastating consequences, including loss of employment; loss of a security clearance; inability to possess firearms, including hunting rifles and shotguns; and deportation if one is not a United States citizen.

Ellicott City and Columbia Domestic Assault Lawyer

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience, including domestic violence and domestic assault cases. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of domestic assault and other criminal cases in the local courts, including Howard County. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him. Mr. Smith’s results speak for themselves.

Highly Rated Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in domestic violence, domestic assault, and other criminal cases — has earned him the recognition of the legal community, 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 defense attorneys in Howard County.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith represents clients in domestic assault and other criminal defense matters, DUI / DWI, MVA Hearings, traffic offenses, domestic violence and child abusecharges 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.

Contact Us

To schedule an appointment with an experienced domestic assault lawyer and criminal defense attorney, 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: Assault, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, District Court for Howard County, Domestic Assault, Domestic Violence, domestic violence attorney, domestic violence lawyer, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

How Can a Former Prosecuting Attorney Assist You with Your Criminal Defense?

May 8, 2012 by

Criminal Defense in Columbia, Ellicott City, and Howard County, MD

handcuffed1
If you have been charged with a serious crime in Maryland, your best bet may be to retain former prosecuting attorney as your criminal defense lawyer. A former prosecuting attorney has several distinct advantages in defending you against criminal charges:

  • Advantage #1: A former Maryland prosecuting attorney has the background and experience to understand how a prosecutor will likely approach your case. As a former prosecuting attorney, your defense lawyer can look at the evidence from both points of view and see the strengths and weaknesses in your case from the prosecutor’s perspective.
  • Advantage #2: Retaining a former Maryland prosecuting attorney as your criminal defense lawyer means you will be represented by someone who not only has criminal law experience and understands criminal procedure, but likely you will be defended by someone who has earned the respect of the courts and the judges.
  • Advantage #3: By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your case from a prosecutor’s point of view, a former Maryland prosecuting attorney as your criminal defense lawyer will be in a better position to negotiate a favorable plea agreement, or render excellent advice regarding any plea offer provided by the prosecutor.
  • Advantage #4: Prosecutors understand that criminal defense lawyers who were former prosecutors will make the prosecuting attorney dot their i’s and cross their t’s. They will have to put in many extra hours, which may be difficult for overworked staff, especially with government cutbacks. This means they may be more inclined to make a deal, and you may have a greater likelihood of a more favorable plea offer.
  • Advantage #5: As a former prosecuting attorney, your criminal defense lawyer will have likely tried hundreds of cases in front of most judges in the area. This means they will have an understanding of what the judge expects and how the judge is likely to rule on the admission of certain evidence, as well as any peculiarities the judge may have regarding courtroom decorum. This may make it easier and less expensive to fashion a strong defense.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith is a top rated former criminal prosecutor, with over 30 years of courtroom experience in numerous criminal courts throughout the Baltimore area, including Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Prince Georges (Prince George) County, Howard County and Montgomery County. He has handled thousands of criminal defense cases, and chances are excellent he has tried cases in the same courtroom, with the same judge, and knows the prosecuting attorney who will be handling your case. You can see what many satisfied clients have to say about the job he did for them. In addition, you can check the results in real cases he has handled.

Contact Our Office

To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to work 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: Assault, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Domestic Assault, Domestic Violence, domestic violence attorney, illegal possession of handgun, MVA Hearing Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Glen Burnie Man and Lexington Park Woman Indicted by a Howard County Jury for the Non-Fatal Shooting of a Columbia Man during a Drug Deal that Went Bad

April 24, 2012 by

Drug Charge Defense in Columbia, Ellicott City, and Howard County, MD

drugs
Drug dealing is not only a crime, it is a dangerous business. According to the Baltimore Sun, a man and a woman were indicted by a Howard County jury for shooting a man after an alleged drug deal went bad. Although the motivation for the shooting is not yet known, police have indicated that drugs, specifically large quantities of marijuana, were involved.

Eric Brandon Miller and Zehra Senel Oztas were allegedly involved in a drug deal with a Columbia man named Lee. Police believe Lee was wounded during a drug deal where he was trying to sell a substantial quantity of marijuana to Miller and Oztas. The man and woman accused of the shooting are facing charges of armed robbery, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, first-degree assault and use of a handgun for a felony or violent crime, according to the Baltimore Sun.

Drug dealing is not only a crime, but dangerous. If you are charged with dealing drugs in Maryland, including:

  • Marijuana
  • Crack Cocaine
  • Heroin
  • Methamphetamines (Meth)
  • Club drugs (e.g., X, ecstasy)
  • Prescription narcotics
  • Other drug related charges

You should seek counsel from an experienced Maryland criminal defense attorney.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith is a top rated former criminal prosecutor, with over 30 years of courtroom experience. He has handled thousands of criminal cases, including drug and drunk driving cases. You can see what many satisfied clients have to say about the job he did for them. In addition, you can check the results in real cases he has handled.

Contact Our Office

To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to work 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, Drunk Driving, DUI, DWI Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DUI and DWI Penalties in Maryland

April 17, 2012 by

DWI and DUI Defense in Columbia, Ellicott City, and Howard County, MD

dui
While DUI and DWI are synonymous in most states, that is not the case in Maryland, which does draw a distinction between Driving While Impaired (DWI) and Driving Under the Influence (DUI). You will be charged with a DWI if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .07 percent; and you will be charged with a DUI if your BAC is .08 percent or higher. Although both Maryland DWI and Maryland DUI carry stiff penalties for a conviction, the conviction of a DUI carries more harsh penalties.

The following are the parameters of the penalties if you are convicted of a DWI in Maryland:

DWI First Arrest Conviction

  • Up to 2 months in jail (6 months if transporting a minor)
  • Up to $500 fine ($1000 if transporting a minor)
  • Minimum 6 months suspended drivers license

DWI Second Arrest Conviction

  • Up to 1 year in jail
  • Up to $500 fine ($2000 if transporting a minor)
  • Minimum 1 year suspended drivers license

The following are the parameters of the penalties if you are convicted of a DUI in Maryland:

DUI First Arrest Conviction

  • Up to 1 year in jail (2 years if transporting a minor)
  • Up to $1000 fine ($2000 if transporting a minor)
  • Minimum 6 months suspended drivers license

DUI Second Arrest Conviction

  • Up to 2 year in jail (3 years if transporting a minor)
  • Up to $2000 fine ($3000 if transporting a minor)
  • Minimum 1 year suspended drivers license (if within 5 years of previous DUI conviction)

DUI Third (and Subsequent) Arrest Conviction(s)

  • Up to 3 year in jail (4 years if transporting a minor)
  • Up to $3000 fine ($4000 if transporting a minor)
  • Minimum 18 months suspended drivers license

DUI and DWI charges are serious in Maryland. If is important to retain a skilled criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after being charged with a DUI or DWI, or other alcohol or drug related charge, in Maryland

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith is a top rated former criminal prosecutor, with over 30 years of courtroom experience. He has handled thousands of drunk driving cases. You can see what many satisfied clients have to say about the job he did for them. In addition, you can check the results in real cases he has handled.

Contact Our Office

To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to work 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, Drunk Driving, DUI, DWI Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Man Charged with High School Assault 2

April 8, 2012 by

Student Allegedly Assaulted

Howard County Police charged a Baltimore man with coming onto Long Reach High School in Columbia and assaulting a student. He was charged with second degree assault and disorderly conduct. An onlooker videotaped the incident and posted the video online.

What is Assault?

Under Maryland law, a second degree assault (also known as assault 2) occurs when someone places the victim in reasonable fear of an imminent harmful or offensive touching, and the actor has the present apparent ability to carry out the threat. Assault also includes the consummated act of battery, which is an intentional harmful or offensive touching. Domestic assault and domestic violence assault are two examples of assault.

Penalties for Assault

Second degree assault is a misdemeanor. If convicted, the court may impose a sentence up to 10 years imprisonment, a $10,000.00 fine, or both.

Ellicott City and Columbia Assault Lawyer

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience, including assault cases. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of assault and other criminal cases in the local courts. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him. Mr. Smith’s results speak for themselves.

Highly Rated Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in assault 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 defense attorneys in Howard County.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith represents clients in assault 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.

Contact Us

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.

 

Filed Under: Assault, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Domestic Assault, Domestic Violence, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Student Not Guilty of Possession of Drugs and Deadly Weapons

April 1, 2012 by

Drug Possession and Deadly Weapons

A 21-year old student was stopped by a Howard County for a cracked windshield. After being stopped, the driver was asked repeatedly whether he had anything illegal in the car. The police officer stated that the student might as well be honest, because the officer was going to search the car anyway.

Car Search Results in Marijuana and Deadly Weapons

The student then admitted having a marijuana pipe. The police officer ordered the driver out of the car, placed him under arrest, and searched the car, seizing marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and a hatchet and several knives (deadly weapons). The student, however, was found not guilty of all charges in the District Court for Howard County.

Most deadly weapon and drug possession charges result in plea bargains. But someone charged with possession of drugs and deadly weapon charges should have an experienced criminal lawyer or drug possession attorney defend them.

Driver Not Guilty of Drug Possession and Deadly Weapon Charges

In this case, Jonathan Scott Smith, an experienced Columbia criminal lawyer, represented the student. He refused a plea bargain offer and took the case to trial. On cross examination, the police officer admitted that the student had not committed any moving violations. The officer could not describe the location or size of the alleged windshield crack, and never issued a repair order for such a violation. The judge agreed that the police officer lacked legal cause to stop the car, and suppressed all evidence, including the marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and deadly weapons. Absent this evidence, the student was found not guilty of all charges.

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 deadly weapon 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 drug possession and deadly weapon charges, and other 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 Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Woman Cleared in Hit and Run Accident

April 1, 2012 by

A 54-year old woman with a high security clearance was charged with a hit and run accident after allegedly striking a pedestrian in a grocery store parking lot. The complainant claimed that she was struck and knocked down by the driver’s car, which then fled the scene.

What is Hit and Run

What is a hit and run accident? Hit and run in Maryland occurs when a driver is involved in a bodily injury accident, and then fails to remain at, or return to, the scene to render aid, and provide identifying and insurance information.

Hit and Run Penalties

Hit and run penalties are very severe. If convicted, the court can impose up to one year in jail, and a $1,000.00 fine. In addition, the driver could receive 12 points — basis for revocation of a driver’s license.

In this case, the prosecution sought jail time based on the seriousness of the alleged hit and run accident. Columbia criminal lawyer and hit and run attorney Jonathan Scott Smith represented the accused hit and run driver, rejected all plea bargain offers, and took the case to trial.

The evidence showed that the pedestrian denied any injury to paramedics who arrived at the hit and run scene. Also, an examination failed to reveal any injury whatsoever. Maryland law not only requires proof of bodily injury, but that the alleged hit and run driver knew there was an injury. The accused was found not guilty of all charges after a hotly contested trial in the District Court for Howard County.

Howard County Hit and Run Attorney

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of criminal law experience. He has represented people charged in and around Howard County, including Ellicott City and Columbia, Maryland, who have been charged with a hit and run accident.

Top Rated Ellicott City Criminal Lawyer

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 criminal cases, including hit and run accidents— 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 defense and hit and run attorneys in Columbia, Ellicott City, and Howard County.

To schedule a meeting, contact our office by e-mail or call us at 410-740-0101.

Contact Our Office

For an appointment, contact us by e-mail or call us at 410-740-0101. Put an experienced Maryland hit and run defense attorney to work for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith represents clients in hit and run accidents, 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’s and Prince George) County, Howard County and Montgomery County, MD.

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

Contact Us

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

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