Westminster Criminal Defense Attorneys

Criminal charges can drastically change the course of your life, but before you’re convicted, there is hope. When you work with a Westminster criminal lawyer, you’ll see that the future is bright. Your situation is serious and so are we.

Albers & Associates is here to help protect your future from serious criminal charges. We can help build your case, give you tips on how to prepare for court, and more. Some of the types of criminal cases that we handle include, but are not limited to:

• Assault: Involves intentionally causing physical harm or threatening to cause harm to another person.
• Burglary: Illegally entering a building or structure with the intent to commit theft or another felony.
• Drug Crimes: Offenses related to illegal possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances.
• Domestic Violence: Involves abuse or violence within familial or intimate relationships, including physical, emotional, or psychological harm.
• Expungement: The legal process of sealing or erasing criminal records, typically for certain eligible offenses, to aid in someone's rehabilitation and future opportunities.
• Juvenile Defense: Legal representation and defense for minors (under 18) facing criminal charges.
• Resisting Arrest: Actions taken to prevent or obstruct a lawful arrest, often involving physical resistance or fleeing from law enforcement.
• Probation Violations: Occur when a person on probation fails to comply with the conditions set by the court, leading to potential legal consequences.
• Traffic Violations: Breaches of traffic laws, including speeding, reckless driving, DUI/DWI, and other offenses while operating a vehicle.
• Violent Crimes: Offenses that involve the use of force or threat of force against another person, including murder, manslaughter, robbery, and aggravated assault.
• Sexual Assault: Unwanted sexual contact or behavior without consent, encompassing various degrees of severity.
• Criminal Appeals: The legal process of requesting a higher court to review a decision made by a lower court in a criminal case, typically seeking a reconsideration or reversal of the initial judgment.

Maryland Criminal Laws

In Maryland, a criminal offense refers to an action that violates the state's laws, resulting in potential legal consequences. Criminal offenses are categorized into two main types: misdemeanors and felonies. The primary differences lie in the severity of the offense and the corresponding punishments.

Misdemeanors are less serious crimes compared to felonies. They typically involve lower-level offenses, such as petty theft, simple assault, minor drug possession, or some traffic violations. Misdemeanors are often punishable by up to a year in county jail, fines, probation, community service, or a combination of these penalties.

In contrast, felonies are more serious crimes and usually involve acts such as murder, rape, burglary, arson, serious drug trafficking, and white-collar crimes involving substantial amounts of money.

Maryland further categorizes felonies into different classes, such as first-degree and second-degree felonies, with varying degrees of severity and corresponding punishments. Penalties for felonies are typically more severe and can include imprisonment in a state prison for over a year or even life imprisonment, significant fines, probation, and loss of certain rights (e.g., the right to vote or carry firearms).

We Understand That This is the Rest of Your Life

Criminal charges can have serious, life-altering consequences for you and your family. You need to know that the lawyer you work with not only has your best interests at heart, but that they are going to advocate for you and your circumstances. Whether you’ve been charged with a violent crime or not, getting the help you need is imperative for your future. Don’t let one mistake define the rest of your life.

Though the eyes of the law can be cold and ruthless, a good lawyer can put the circumstances of your case into perspective in the eyes of the jury.

The Perils of a Public Defender

In criminal cases, those charged receive access to a public defender in the event that they cannot secure legal representation of their own. However, hiring a Westminster criminal defense lawyer of your own is often the best option. Public Defenders are amazing lawyers who have deeply invested in their communities, but they are also often overworked. Being overworked can make even the best of the best start to wear thin and even make mistakes.

When you work with a private attorney, you can trust in the fact that your lawyer took your case not because they had to, but because they wanted to. Your case will not be lost in a stack of twenty others like it; we’ll take good care of you from start to finish.

Here are other advantages of hiring a private lawyer compared to relying on a public defender or representing yourself:

• Expertise and Experience: Private criminal defense lawyers often specialize in specific areas of law and have extensive experience handling cases similar to yours. They understand the legal system, nuances of laws, and potential defenses better, which can significantly impact your case.
• Dedicated Attention: Private lawyers typically have fewer cases than public defenders, allowing them to dedicate more time and attention to your case. They can thoroughly investigate the circumstances, gather evidence, and craft a personalized defense strategy tailored to your situation.
• Access to Resources: Private attorneys often have access to a network of resources, including investigators, expert witnesses, and other professionals, which can strengthen your defense. They can leverage these resources to build a stronger case on your behalf.
• Faster Resolution: Private attorneys may expedite the legal process by efficiently navigating court procedures and advocating for quicker resolution. This could potentially result in reduced penalties or a faster conclusion to your case.
• Better Communication: Private lawyers usually offer more direct and personalized communication with their clients. They can explain legal proceedings, advise you on the potential outcomes, and keep you informed at every stage of the case.
• Negotiation Skills: A skilled private criminal defense lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges, secure plea bargains, or arrange for alternative sentencing options that might not be as readily available without legal representation.
• Protecting Rights: Lawyers are well-versed in protecting your constitutional rights. They ensure that you receive fair treatment throughout the legal process and safeguard against any violations of your rights by law enforcement or the prosecution.
• Increased Confidence: Having a private lawyer representing you can provide peace of mind and confidence during a stressful time. Their expertise and guidance can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with facing criminal charges.

We Can Defend You From Criminal Charges

If you’re facing serious criminal charges, you need a team to help you get your life back on track. We all make mistakes and not all mistakes should ruin your life.

We’re ready to help you with your case, so contact us today for more details on how we can address your circumstances.