Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

DMV Record Access

I'm turning 21 in a week. I'd like to go to the Maryland DMV and change my State ID not license over to a full frontal picture. I need it before I travel for 2 months. When I return home I need to take care of a warrant, I believe is out for missing a court date. (It is Non traffic related, just a bad check for $22).

If I go to the DMV to change my ID over, do they have access to the information? As in because it is not traffic related would they be able to see that sort of information and have me arrested in line at the DMV. It seems a bit extreme knowing this is a very minor offense, but is it possible to be stopped/detained just to go in and change my ID with a new photo.

THANKS


Asked on 3/21/05, 6:08 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Re: DMV Record Access

First, writing a bad check is not a minor offense in Maryland, as it carries up to 18 months in jail and a $500.00 fine. Second, as a general rule, motor vehicles will not know of your criminal charges, however, with the expanding of computer services in Maryland, agencies are now cross checking. To my knowledge MVA is not exchanging information with the police departments. You should contact a criminal lawyer, like myself, before you go to Court.

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Answered on 3/21/05, 9:24 pm
G. Joseph Holthaus III Law Offices of G. Joseph Holthaus

Re: DMV Record Access

Passing a bad check can result in more than one criminal charge. Several remedies may apply. You should have representation before you are charged.

The MVA has information on all liens, judgments and bench warrants. Should you be able to obtain a driver's license at the MVA, this does not alleviate your problem since you may certainly be arrested when pulled over at a later date.

You should contact an attorney for legal assistance.

(410) 750-2567

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Answered on 3/21/05, 10:12 pm


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