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Arson Suspect Arrested in New Carrollton Fire

March 12, 2013 by

Arson Charges filed in Deadly New Carrollton Fire

Prince George’s County Police have identified a suspect in an apartment fire in New Carrollton in January, 2013, that left two people dead. Officers have arrested 44-year-old Anthony Andre Allain and charged him with two counts of felony murder, as well as first-degree arson. According to a witness, the defendant barricaded himself and two others in an apartment at 7600 Fountainbleau around 7:30 pm on January 13, and started a fire. Allain escaped with burns that were not life threatening, but the other two adults perished, one inside the apartment and the other after leaping from a balcony.

Under Maryland law, if you commit a felony and someone dies as a result of that act, you can be charged with felony murder. Because Allain is charged with the felony of arson, he has also been charged with felony murder. The penalty for conviction for felony murder can include life in prison.

What is Arson under Maryland Law?

Arson in Maryland is divided into degrees: first degree arson and second degree arson. What is first degree arson in Maryland? First degree arson is when a person willfully and maliciously sets fire to or burns (1) a dwelling, or (2) a structure in which or on which an individual who is not a participant is present. First degree arson is a felony. What is the penalty for first degree arson? A person who is guilty of first degree arson in Maryland is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 30 years, or a fine not exceeding $50,000.00, or both.

What is second degree arson in Maryland? Second degree arson is when a person willfully and maliciously sets fire to or burns a structure that belongs to the person or another. Second degree arson is a felony. What is the penalty for second degree arson? A person who is guilty of second degree arson in Maryland is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 20 years, or a fine not exceeding $30,000.00, or both.

Top-Rated Criminal Defense Attorney Howard County, MD

A Maryland Super Lawyer, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith brings more than 30 years of trial experience to criminal defendants in Maryland. He has built an outstanding reputation with clients and colleagues.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience in criminal cases — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Ellicott City, Maryland, Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you need top-ranked criminal defense counsel for arson charges, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will aggressively fight to protect your constitutional rights. Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment. We represent criminal defendants in Howard County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

 

 

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

Man Arrested for Indecent Exposure at Columbia Mall

February 15, 2013 by

Burtonsville Man Arrested for Indecent Exposure

On Wednesday, February 12, 2013, Steven Michael Lerer, 49, of Burtonsville, was arrested after a member of the Mall in Columbia’s staff observed him fondling his exposed genitals, The Baltimore Sun reported.

The Sun quoted Howard County Police as stating that Lerer was spotted about 9:30 p.m. near the food court with a jacket covering his genital area. As he turned, the mall staff member noticed he was touching himself. Police said the staff member alerted security, who detained Lerer until police arrived.

Indecent Exposure Laws and Indecent Exposure Definition

What is indecent exposure? Indecent exposure is defined as the deliberate exposure in public or in view of the general public by a person of a portion or portions of his or her body. It includes exposure of the genitalia, breasts, and buttocks.

Indecent Exposure Penalty in Maryland

In Maryland, indecent exposure is a misdemeanor. The indecent exposure penalty is imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

Arrested for Indecent Exposure?

The public mistakenly believes that people who may have committed indecent exposure are violent criminals, or rapists. Often, this is mistaken. Many people who are guilty of indecent exposure have no prior criminal record, may be married with children, and are not violent or dangerous. There may be life stresses that overwhelm them, and they simply are crying for help. They may need help, not punishment.

Indecent Exposure Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one is arrested for indecent exposure, you need an experienced criminal lawyer to fight for you.

Jonathan Scott Smith is a former prosecutor and criminal lawyer with extensive trial experience — and his track record of successful  results, including indecent exposure cases, has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory.
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Contact Us Now for Help

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

Simple Assault Defense in Columbia, Maryland

January 10, 2013 by

What is Assault?

assault-defense-lawyer
In Maryland assault you can be charged with assault even if you do not physically harm someone. Just attempting to touch another person without that person’s agreement and causing them to be fearful of being touched is considered an assault crime in Columbia and elsewhere throughout Maryland.

In a typical simple assault arrest, the police have been called to someone’s home for a domestic altercation, or somewhere to break up a fight. Even if one person was acting in self-defense, the police often arrest both parties anyway. Sometimes, the person who has signs of injury is the one who is spared arrest, even if he or she started the fight. Other times, the person who gets to the police first avoids arrest, even though that person initiated the fight. And just touching a police officer is also considered assault.

Assault Convictions Can Mean 10 Years Jail Time

Even if you never should have been arrested and the police have made a mistake, you will still be facing up to ten years in prison if you are charged with a simple assault, also known as a second-degree assault. Second degree assault is a misdemeanor and carries a fine of up to $2500.

It helps to have an attorney experienced defending clients who have found themselves in unfortunate situations like these.

Second Degree Assault Defined

Assault in the second degree happens when one person physically injures another. The injuries can be minor or cause physical injury, but not serious or permanent injury.

Second-degree assault also includes causing a reasonable person to fear imminent physical harm. This means that even if you did not physically touch another person but you caused them to have a reasonable fear of being hurt by you, you could potentially be charged with assault.

Battery, which is also considered an assault crime, means unlawfully, offensively touching another person without his or her agreement. In most situations, however, assault does refer to a fight or disagreement that has turned physically violent.

Highly Rated Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Jonathan Scott Smith is a former prosecutor with over 30 years of courtroom experience. Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory.
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Defense Against Simple Assault Charges in Columbia, MD

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, Domestic Assault Tagged With:

Shoplifting Charges in Howard County, MD

December 18, 2012 by

Theft Charges for Shoplifting
shoplifting
A shoplifting arrest at the Columbia Center Mall in Kennewick, WA involved a 31-year-old mom who stripped all her clothes off to prove she had not stolen anything, according to news reports. The mother in question evidently was stopped for shoplifting and refused to put her clothes back on. When police did arrive, the mother’s daughter, age 9, revealed a jewelry box hidden under her shirt.

If you have been arrested for shoplifting charges in Howard County or elsewhere throughout Maryland, it is important to have an experienced criminal lawyer represent you.

Penalties for Thefts Under $1,000 — Misdemeanor

In Maryland, penalties on conviction of theft of less than $100 can be up to 90 days in jail or a fine up to $500, or both. For theft convictions over $100 but less than $1,000, jail time can be up to 18 months, with a fine up to $500, or both. Additionally, the person convicted must make restitution to the owner of the property stolen. Anything under $1,000 is a misdemeanor.

Felony Charges – Shoplift More Than $1,000

If the value of the items stolen is more than $1,000, the crime is considered a felony under Maryland criminal law.

23 Million People Accused of Shoplifting in the US

According to Shoplifters Alternative, about 23 million people shoplift, and one-quarter of these are teenagers. Howard County shopping malls like Columbia Mall offer significant temptations, and there are occasions when people make mistakes in judgment.

If you have been arrested for shoplifting anything from a pair of jeans to an expensive electronic item, you must take action to protect your rights and avoid a criminal record if at all possible. A conviction on a shoplifting charge can impact your ability to get a job, a college loan, and possibly even your ability to get credit.

Talking with an attorney experienced in investigating and successfully defending clients against shoplifting charges, or any other type of theft, can be critical to the outcome of your case.

Criminal Lawyer Howard County MD

Jonathan Scott 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 shoplifting and theft. 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 MD Shoplifting Defense Attorney

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in shoplifting, theft, 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, 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.

Arrested for Shoplifting? Contact Experienced Theft Defense Attorney in Howard County, MD

To schedule an appointment with an experienced criminal defense lawyer at the Smith Criminal Defense Law Firm, call 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:

Drivers Face DUI Charges in Prince George’s County Sobriety Checkpoint

December 10, 2012 by

Sobriety Checkpoint In Prince George’s County Nets Drivers

On December 7 and 8, 2012, Prince George’s County police officers conducted sobriety check points and focused their enforcement along the University Boulevard corridor and the Pennsylvania Avenue and Marlboro Pike corridor. On those nights, police officers made seven arrests on DUI charges over the course of 100 traffic stops, according to the police department.

The Prince George’s County Police Department’s sobriety checkpoint is part of its participation in a statewide drunk driving enforcement operation called Project SOLO—Saving Our Loved Ones.

Prince George’s County DUI Lawyer

An experienced DUI lawyer can be very helpful dealing with arrests resulting from sobriety checkpoints. Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith is a top rated attorney 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.

Top Rated Drunk Driving Defense Attorney

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in DUI/DWI and driving under the influence 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, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

DUI Lawyer Prince George’s County MD

To schedule an appointment with an experienced drunk driving defense lawyer, 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.

 

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, driving with suspended license, Drunk Driving, DUI, DWI, traffic charges

Six Drivers Arrested in Howard Count DUI Sobriety Checkpoint

December 10, 2012 by

Sobriety Checkpoint Results in DUI Charges

Howard County Police conducted a DUI sobriety checkpoint on Saturday, December 8, 2012 into the early morning hours of Sunday, December 9, 2012, according to The Baltimore Sun. The sobriety checkpoint was established on westbound US Route 40 and Governors Run Way in Ellicott City.

Five drivers were arrested and charged with DUI charges. One driver was arrested for driving on a suspended license. Approximately 649 vehicles passed through the Checkpoint, which was staffed by Howard County Police.

Sobriety Checkpoints Key Tool for DUI Charges

Howard County Police periodically conduct sobriety checkpoints as part of the Checkpoint Strikeforce campaign that are funded in part by a grant from the Maryland Highway Safety Office. Maryland Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) also assisted with the DUI check point.

Maryland DUI  Lawyer

An experienced sobriety check point DUI lawyer can explain your rights and fight for you in court. Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith is a top rated attorney 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 in DUI 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, 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.

DUI Attorney Howard County MD

DUI charges are very serious. You need an experienced drunk driving lawyer to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. To schedule an appointment with an experienced drunk driving defense lawyer, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, driving with suspended license, Drunk Driving, DUI, DWI

Probation Violation Cases in Howard County, MD

November 30, 2012 by

Probation Violation Cases
probation-violation
Probation is an agreement that lets you stay out of jail and potentially avoid a criminal record, depending on the specific terms of your agreement. In exchange for your freedom, you must follow certain rules.

The probation agreement may last for months or years, depending on the nature of the offense for which you were convicted. During this time, a probation officer supervises you, the probationer.

Probation Terms

Terms of probation may include:

  • Regular meetings with your probation officer
  • Obeying all laws (i.e. not being arrested or convicted for another crime)
  • Taking randomly scheduled alcohol and drug tests
  • Going to counseling
  • Maintaining employment and attending school
  • Paying fines and court costs
  • Performing community service
  • Paying restitution

Probation Violation Can Result in Jail Time

Violating any part of your probation agreement, especially being convicted of another criminal offense or not reporting to your probation agent, may result in a probation revocation. If your probation officer has reported you for probation violation, you will have to go to probation violation hearing.

Come Prepared to a Probation Violation Hearing

This is a court appearance for which you must be prepared, otherwise you may lose probation and be sent to jail to serve out your original sentence. An attorney can potentially intervene and discuss your situation with your probation officer, explaining all the ways you have been adhering to your probation agreement and how you intend to fulfill the remainder of the agreement.

If your probation agent still insists on going forward with a probation revocation hearing, an experienced probation violation defense attorney can help the judge understand any potential extenuating circumstances that may have contributed to an alleged probation violation. Additionally, a lawyer can effectively help the judge understand all the good things you have done during probation so a more balanced picture of you is in mind before a decision about your future is made.

Probation Violation 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, including cases involving charges for probation violation. 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 Criminal Defense Attorney

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in violation of probation, 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, 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.

Act Now to Protect Your Freedom. Contact an Experienced Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Are you facing a potential probation violation? Howard County criminal defense attorney Jonathan Scott Smith has the skill, knowledge, and experience to fight for you and do everything possible to try and keep you out of jail.

To schedule an appointment at the Smith Criminal Defense Firm, 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, Probation violation Tagged With:

Defense Against Marijuana Cultivation Charge – Maryland

November 21, 2012 by

marijuana-cultivation-charge
Maryland law enforcement officials take cultivation or the growing of marijuana seriously. Overzealous police and detectives may use intrusive and possibly unlawful investigative techniques to ferret out marijuana cultivation growers. They may use technology that unlawfully invades the privacy of Maryland residents. They analyze water and electric bills to discern whether excessive quantities are being used to grow marijuana for possible sale or distribution.

It’s not right. It’s not fair. But it happens. And if you have been arrested on a marijuana cultivation charge, having an attorney experienced in defending clients against these types of charges can mean the difference between your having a bright future and spending many years in prison.

Mandatory Minimum Sentence on Conviction

If you have been convicted of a drug crime in the past, you may be facing a mandatory minimum sentence if you are convicted a second time. Depending on the quantity of marijuana plants confiscated or the weight of the marijuana you have been arrested for, you may be facing a mandatory minimum sentence on conviction of a marijuana cultivation charge.

Questions in Any Marijuana Cultivation Charge Case

  • How did law enforcement officials learn of the marijuana cultivation?
  • Was the search and seizure of the marijuana in accordance with the law?
  • Did the police have probable cause to arrest you?
  • Did authorities have a warrant to search the premises or the property?
  • Were water or electric utility bills obtained in a legal manner?
  • Were the rights of the person charged violated at any point during the arrest or thereafter?
  • Was the marijuana being grown for personal medical use?

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 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 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, 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.

Defend Against Marijuana Cultivation Charges – MD 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, Marijuana Tagged With:

Mandatory Minimum Statutes in Maryland

October 29, 2012 by

mandatory-minimun-jail-sentence
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
avvo-badge-clients-choice
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

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