COLUMBIA CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS
Defending Those Facing Criminal Charges in Columbia
At Scheuerman Law, LLC, our Columbia defense attorneys handle all manner of criminal cases. Throughout our years of practice, we have defended clients accused of traffic violations, driving under the influence, drug crimes, sex crimes, domestic violence, theft, and homicide, among others. Recognizing the serious and life-long consequences of a conviction, we fight hard for the people we serve, seeking the best possible outcomes in their cases. Our strategic approach begins with getting a complete picture of what happened. That means learning about our clients and understanding their cases from their perspectives. We have a track record of results in misdemeanor and felony cases and are ready to put our knowledge and skills to work to defend you.
For the dedicated defense you need, schedule a free consultation by calling us at (410) 630-4274 or contacting us online today.
We handle all types of criminal cases in Columbia, MD, including, but not limited to:
- Kidnapping: Charges can arise when a person allegedly transports a person in or out of this state (MD Code, Crim. Law § 3-502). A conviction can result in imprisonment for up to 30 years.
- Gun crimes: Several kinds of conduct fall under the gun crimes category. For instance, MD Code, Crim. Law § 4-203 prohibits persons from unlawfully wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun. Violators can be punished by 30 days to 3 years of imprisonment. MD Code, Crim. Law § 4-204 makes it illegal to use a firearm to commit a violent crime. If convicted, the individual faces 5 to 20 years of imprisonment in addition to the penalties assessed for the underlying crime.
- Assault: Maryland separates assault into two degrees. Generally, first-degree assault occurs when someone causes serious bodily injury to another. It is penalized by a term of imprisonment not to exceed 25 years. Second-degree assault involves causing physical injury to another. Conviction penalties include a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.
- Drug crimes: These offenses include possession of controlled substances (MD Code, Crim. Law § 5-601) and distribution of controlled substances (MD Code, Crim. Law § 5-602). The penalties imposed depend on the type and amount of the drug involved.
- Homicide: Maryland's homicide laws concern crimes, including first- and second-degree murder (MD Code, Crim. Law §§ 2-203 & 2-204), manslaughter (MD Code, Crim. Law § 2-207), and vehicular manslaughter (MD Code, Crim. Law § 2-209). Depending on the crime, punishments can include up to decades in prison or life imprisonment without parole.
- Disorderly conduct: Under MD Code, Crim. Law § 10-201, a person commits disorderly conduct if they disturb the public, hinder free passage of others, disobey lawful orders, or make unreasonably loud noises. The crime is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days of imprisonment.
- Sex crimes: Sex offenses include, but are not limited to, first- and second-degree rape (MD Code, Crim. Law §§ 3-303 & 3-304), third- or fourth-degree sexual offenses (MD Code, Crim. Law §§ 3-307 & 3-308), and sexual solicitation of minors (MD Code, Crim. Law § 3-324).
If you are under investigation for or have been charged with a crime, speak with our criminal defense lawyers in Columbia about your options for challenging the accusations.
Columbia DUI Attorneys
A person who operates a vehicle after consuming alcohol and/or drugs can be charged with driving while under the influence or impairment of alcohol or controlled substances. Both of these offenses are serious.
A first-time DUI violation can result in:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Up to 6 months of driver's license revocation
- 12 points assessed to the driving record
A first-time DWI violation can result in:
- Up to 2 months in jail
- Up to $500 in fines
- Up to 6 months of driver's license revocation
- 8 points assessed to the driving record
Our team can fight for you whether you have been charged with a DUI or DWI. We have skillfully handled misdemeanor and felony DUIs, underage DUIs, BUIs, and administrative driver's license suspension cases. We know what it takes to get results.
With our Columbia criminal lawyers' knowledge of Maryland law, familiarity with the court system, and ability to adeptly handle an array of criminal matters, we are well-equipped to take on your case. And while we know how to prepare effective strategies, that does not mean we apply the same one to every matter we handle. When you hire us, we will take the time to learn about the nature of the alleged offense and your goals to form a defense tailored for your unique situation. At Scheuerman Law, LLC, you are not just a case; you are a person with a lot on the line.
Experienced Representation for a Range of Criminal Charges
Maryland's Criminal Law enumerates various types of conduct that can lead to criminal charges. Offenses are separated into several categories including, homicide; crimes against the person; weapons crimes; controlled substances offenses; crimes against property; theft; fraud; crimes against public health, conduct and sensibilities; and indecency and obscenity. An accusation for violating any of the statutes under these titles is serious. Many are charged as misdemeanors or felonies, which means a guilty verdict can result in incarceration and/or fines. In some cases, additional sanctions can be imposed, such as loss of firearm rights or sex offender registration.
Whatever law you are alleged to have broken, it is imperative that you retain legal representation immediately. Defending against charges requires a great deal of preparation. The sooner you hire an attorney, the more time they have to begin defending you.
At Scheuerman Law, LLC, our criminal attorneys in Columbia attend to every detail in a criminal case. We gather and analyze evidence, review relevant case law, and obtain testimony from experts. You can be confident that we will do everything in our legal power to protect your rights and freedoms.
Columbia Traffic Ticket Attorneys
An officer can issue a traffic citation for various violations, such as speeding, driving with a suspended license, reckless driving, failing to control speed to avoid an accident, and knowingly driving without insurance.
Many people simply pay the fine to get their case over with as quickly as possible. But doing so is an admission of guilt. The violation gets recorded on their record, and points may be assessed to their license.
If you have received a traffic ticket, you have alternatives to just paying the fine. You can plead not guilty and ask for a trial to contest the citation. Because this is a legal matter, you must present your case in court, and a judge will decide whether you are guilty.
Our traffic ticket lawyers in Columbia can help you through this process. Speak with us today.
Call for Criminal Defense in Columbia, MD
At Scheuerman Law, LLC, we have the resources and experience to take on criminal cases, no matter how complex. Our team is meticulous in preparing defenses and is ready to represent you both in and out of the courtroom.
For aggressive defense and zealous advocacy, contact our criminal defense attorneys in Columbia, MD by contacting us at (410) 630-4274.
Criminal Defense FAQs
What Happens After an Arrest?
After an arrest, the police will turn over their case file to the prosecutor. The prosecutor will review it to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to bring charges. If they believe there is enough, you will be scheduled for initial court proceedings, where you will be informed of the specific charges against you and your rights. Depending on the actions you take, your case can move to sentencing or it can be set for trial.
Do I Have to Speak with Police After an Arrest?
Throughout the legal process, even at the early stages, you have the right to remain silent and to counsel. It is important to exercise both of these rights, as doing so can prevent you from doing or saying anything that can be used against you in your case.
What Is the Criminal Court Process?
The process a case may go through depends on the specific situation. However, many cases may involve the following steps:
- Initial court appearance: During this proceeding, the judge will inform the defendant of the charges against them and their rights.
- Plea bargain: The defense attorney may negotiate a deal where the defendant pleads guilty in exchange for lesser charges or a reduced sentence.
- Trial: If the defendant's case is not settled by a plea deal, it will proceed to trial. Both the prosecution and defense will present evidence to support their arguments.
- Sentencing: If the defendant is found guilty, by verdict or plea, they will be sentenced. This is where the judge decides what penalties to impose.
If I'm Planning on Pleading Guilty, Do I Still Need a Lawyer?
Yes. Even if you are planning on pleading guilty, you should still hire a lawyer. They may be able to seek a more favorable outcome for you. Additionally, they can analyze the evidence to determine whether pleading guilty is the best course of action or if other options are available.
Our Clients Share Their Stories
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"Knows what he's doing!"I appreciate the time and attention that Mr. Saleh put into my case. I hope I won't be needing their services again in the future, but I would absolutely contact them again if I do.- Jessica M
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"Very polite and communicative"He responded back immediately, and was very polite and communicative the whole time!- Savannah P
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"Best lawyer hands down!"Very professional. He Genuinely cares. He listen to all our concerns and knows a lot.- Mike
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"Amazing Attorney"Amazing attorney who will fight to the end for justice! Thank you for all you do!- Kelly
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"I felt very at ease with Mark representing me."I felt very at ease with Mark representing me and will definitely use him in the future.- Terry H.
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"If you want to win, you want Mark Scheuerman and his team."If you want to win, you want Mark Scheuerman and his team.- Anna O.