Annapolis, MD Criminal Defense Attorneys

In many cases, people do not know they are under investigation until they are arrested for a crime. However, if you have advance notice that you are being investigated, consulting with a lawyer immediately can help in many ways. Our attorneys can look into the investigation, provide invaluable advice and information, and provide you with representation if you are questioned or formally charged.

The prosecutor may offer a plea bargain if you have been charged with a crime. In exchange for your guilty plea or agreeing not to contest your charges, you could receive a reduced sentence, a lesser charge, or the dismissal of some of your charges.

In some cases, accepting a plea bargain is the best possible outcome for your case. However, you should always work with a criminal defense attorney to negotiate the terms of your deal. Without legal representation, you may accept an unfavorable deal.

Although public defenders are capable of representing you, most of them have extremely heavy caseloads. Because of this, they rarely have sufficient time to get to know you, delve deeply into all aspects of your case, and build a defense strategy that is based on your specific circumstances.

When you work with Henley & Henley, Attorneys at Law, our lawyers will spend a great deal of time with you to ensure that we understand all pertinent information related to your case. We devote considerable resources to investigating and building your defense, always explaining your options and helping you make informed choices.

Although police officers may try to convince you that speaking to them and answering their questions is in your best interests, the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution grants you the right to remain silent. Anything you say in an interview can be used against you, and you could inadvertently incriminate yourself. To avoid this, you can tell the officer that you wish to speak with your attorney and that you are exercising your right to remain silent.

To search your vehicle, home, or person, a police officer must have a valid warrant signed by a judge, or they must receive your consent. A warrant should precisely state what it covers and any limitations that may apply. You cannot refuse to let an officer execute a valid warrant, as the warrant serves as permission to perform a search. Without that warrant, you do not have to allow a search.

You may think that since a misdemeanor charge is relatively minor, the repercussions of a conviction will not be severe. While felony charges and the consequences of convictions are usually more serious, a misdemeanor conviction can significantly impact your future. Along with potential fines and jail time, a conviction becomes part of your criminal record, diminishes your reputation, and directly affects your ability to care for your family. Our criminal defense lawyers can explain more during your free case review, making sure you understand the best approach to take during your case.

Any attorney licensed in Maryland could technically handle your Maryland criminal charges. However, a lawyer with significant experience handling criminal matters can provide you with multiple benefits. With so many possible areas of the law, it is not possible for one attorney to be competent in all of them.

If you have a serious heart condition, would you go to a general practitioner or a well-respected cardiologist? Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are like the cardiologist in that analogy; we are intimately familiar with the details of all applicable laws and how these cases work. Our focus on this area of law allows us to be more effective than a lawyer who provides general counsel.

You need a lawyer you are comfortable with, but he or she should also have:

• Experience
• A winning track record
• A focus on criminal defense law
• Positive reviews and testimonials from previous clients
• Professionalism
• Determination to win

When you choose Henley & Henley, Attorneys at Law, you will receive all that and more.