Clarksburg, MD Criminal Defense Attorney

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Supporting Clients in Clarksburg, MD

Getting arrested can be a traumatic event. Even if you were issued a "written arrest" and were not taken to jail, being accused of a crime can be extraordinarily stressful. Getting over the initial shock of being arrested and charged with a crime can take time. You may be very worried about what comes next. Appearing in court can be intimidating, especially if this is your first time being in trouble with the law. Having a highly experienced and understanding lawyer there to defend you can make the entire ordeal less stressful and result in a better outcome.

Diamant Gerstein, LLC is highly experienced in criminal defense. Our dedicated Clarksburg, MD criminal defense attorneys can help with a wide array of charges, including traffic crimes and assaults. We will do all we can to ensure that your rights are respected while protecting you against the very harsh sentencing Maryland law allows.

Assault Attorneys in Clarksburg, MD

Assault laws can apply to something as simple as spitting on another person or something as serious as shooting the victim and leaving her incapacitated for life. Assault can be a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the circumstances. If the victim was largely unharmed and no weapons were used, the assault would generally be charged as a misdemeanor. However, if the assailant used a weapon, seriously injured the victim, or tried to seriously harm the victim, the assault may be charged as a felony.

Domestic violence is encompassed under Maryland's assault law. People who commit assaults against people they have a domestic relationship with are charged with assault, but the court does flag the case. A restraining order is nearly always issued in domestic violence cases.

First-Time DUI Charges

If you are a first-time DUI defendant, there are a few positive aspects of your case. Courts tend to be somewhat understanding of people who are arrested for driving while intoxicated one time. If getting arrested was your "wake-up call" and you are willing to take steps to address your substance abuse issues, you may find the court fairly forgiving. You will still need an experienced attorney to help minimize any negative consequences. There is also a possibility that you will have a strong legal defense and can have your case dismissed.

Multiple DUIs in Maryland

The more DUIs you already have on your record, the greater the legal jeopardy you are in. A second DUI carries twice the jail time, twice the fine, and about twice the license suspension period. A third DUI carries triple the consequences. Fourth and subsequent DUIs are felonies and are very likely to lead to extended prison sentences. Courts tend to look down on repeat DUI offenders and may begin to see them as a danger to the public.

Driving Without a License

Driving without a license can lead to serious penalties in Maryland, including revocation of driving privileges or steep fines. The seriousness of the offense depends on the circumstances. At one end of the spectrum is driving while you have a valid license, but simply did not have your license on your person when you were pulled over. On the other end is driving while you know your license is suspended due to a DUI.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving means driving in a way that reflects a disregard for the safety of those around you. It is less serious than a DUI charge, but far more serious than a typical speeding ticket. Young people are particularly likely to be charged with reckless driving. It is important to have an attorney representing you, as the consequences of conviction can be serious.

Contact a Clarksburg, MD Criminal Defense Lawyer

Diamant Gerstein, LLC is committed to providing the best defense possible for people facing traffic crime or assault charges. Our dedicated Clarksburg, MD criminal defense lawyers will work strategically to protect your interests. Contact us at 301-560-2685 for a confidential consultation.