Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland
Hey.
I recently got a citation for a Misdemeanor Drug paraphernalia charge and was wondering if because it was my first offence and have no prior history or record if I should hire a lawyer or if theres another way to get the eventual charges expunged or off my record.
2 Answers from Attorneys
A lawyer can help assess the evidence, plea offer, and various consequences of trial and plea bargaining for you. A lawyer can also negotiate and advocate for you. Whether to hire one depends on how serious the legal and non-legal consequences may be for you.
Guilty findings may not be expunged. Nolle prosequi and not guilty may be expunged immediately, but stet and probation before judgement require you to wait three years.
I would at least talk to a lawyer so we can look at the citation and assess the situation. Montgomery County does have a drug diversion program which may lead to dismissal and expungement, but sometimes it's not a good idea if you have a good case, such as an illegal search, or they can't prove it's drug paraphernalia.
Related Questions & Answers
-
If a criminal case of theft is dismissed because the evidence does not match the... Asked 4/09/10, 5:27 pm in United States Maryland Criminal Law
-
As a part of a criminal case, restitution is ordered and the case is dropped by the... Asked 4/07/10, 12:55 pm in United States Maryland Criminal Law
-
My ex-boyfriend went to jail last night for second-degree assault. Today when he... Asked 4/02/10, 1:07 pm in United States Maryland Criminal Law
-
Do i have to tell a future employer about a STET doccet closed case Asked 4/02/10, 5:07 am in United States Maryland Criminal Law
-
If the police stop you on the street, search you saying they are looking for a gun... Asked 3/31/10, 11:32 am in United States Maryland Criminal Law
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
