Bethesda, MD Criminal Defense Attorney

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Supporting Clients in Bethesda, MD

Any criminal accusation can have an immediate and widespread impact on your life. Something as simple as being accused of driving without a license can cause lasting problems. Even if you think your case is clear-cut, there may be a lot an attorney can do to make the situation better. You could have a defense you are not aware of but an attorney could quickly spot, like a technical issue with your DUI chemical tests. Or, an attorney might know a way to reduce the potential consequences. There is little to lose and potentially a lot to gain by speaking with a lawyer.

Diamant Gerstein, LLC is available 24/7, so you can reach us as soon as you are arrested or issued a summons. Our experienced attorney will handle your case strategically and take a hands-on approach to resolving your legal problems. We will do all we can to mitigate the charges you are facing and can even have some cases dismissed.

Why Fight Back Against Traffic Misdemeanors?

People often believe that if they are charged with a minor traffic offense, like reckless driving, it is better to plead guilty and move on because the consequences are not that bad. However, you have another option. You can be represented by an attorney and fight back. Traffic-related misdemeanors can mean points on your license, which could lead to your license getting suspended if anything else happens before those points drop off. If you were driving without a license while under suspension, you could face additional barriers to restoring your driving privileges.

While you may not be looking at much, if any, jail time, for a minor traffic offense, the fines can be steep. Represented parties may be less likely to face the maximum fines. There is also a possibility that an attorney can find solutions like asking the court to dismiss your case or reduce the charges. For example, a reckless driving charge can sometimes be reduced to a violation like speeding.

A DUI, especially a repeat DUI, is not a minor traffic offense. DUI carries jail time, driver's license suspension, and other serious consequences.

How Can a Criminal Conviction Impact Your Life?

Having a criminal conviction on your record can lead to problems that will follow you for a lifetime, such as:

• Difficulty finding rental housing - The rental market is competitive right now, and some landlords will not rent to people with convictions that suggest they might be a problematic tenant. For example, if you have a domestic violence conviction, the landlord might worry about you fighting with your partner and making a lot of noise or getting the police called to the building.
• Struggling to secure jobs - Even a misdemeanor charge can keep you from securing a well-paying job, especially if you are a white-collar professional. Some employers automatically screen out applicants who have a criminal record, even if it was just a simple assault charge stemming from a bar fight years ago.
• Discipline at school - Colleges and universities may separately discipline students who are arrested.
• Social stigma - There is a lot of stigma associated with convictions like DUI or domestic violence. You might find that your friends treat you differently or other people are reluctant to go to the bars with you.
• Loss of transportation - If your conviction results in a loss of driving privileges, you may lose your main source of transportation. It can be difficult to navigate around without being able to drive.

Contact a Bethesda, MD Criminal Defense Lawyer

Diamant Gerstein, LLC is highly experienced in providing skilled criminal defense services. Our dedicated Bethesda, MD criminal defense lawyers will do all we can to reduce the impact of your charges. Contact us at 301-560-2685 for a confidential consultation.