Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

Most likely, yes. A nolo contendere simply means that, while not admitting guilt, that you are admitting that the State has sufficient evidence to prove that you broke a law beyond a reasonable doubt. A nolo contendere is only viable if the judge is willing to accept it. By not contesting the state's case, there is a very high chance that the court will find you guilty of the offense with which you are charged. It is practically similar to pleading not guilty to an agreed statement of facts, where the State reads the facts into the record without opposition, and the defendant does not present any factual defense.

It is the court's conviction of you that will violate your parole. Keep in mind that there are a variety of conditions in place as part of your parole - and the underlying conduct that forms the basis of the charges may violate additional parts of your parole, such as possessing a firearm.

Nolo contendere results in a finding that the law was violated, and that will be sufficient to violate parole. Keep in mind that neither the state nor the court must accept a plea of nolo.

An attorney can assist you in evaluating the state's evidence and pursuing the best outcome for you. If the new charge carries less time than the parole violation, you may want to go to trial. If the new charge carries more, then you may not want the risk.

I offer a free initial consultation.