Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

Probation Before Judgement

Someone with no criminal record and a serious drug addiction uses forgery to steal from his employer on three occasions. He has since moved away and changed is life around completely, however, has recently become aware of a warrant being issued, laying it on thick, with some 25 counts, mostly felonies, stemming from those three occasions.

You think PBJ would be appropriate?

How about even with some jail time and a lengthy suspended sentence?

Is PBJ deferred prosecution or deferred sentencing?

Will the fact that the crimes committed were directly related to and stemmed from a drug abuse problem which is now being overcome be relevant?

Any other options for someone who has turned their life around and would like to deal with the situation but wants to avoid significant prison time if at all possible?


Asked on 12/15/08, 12:43 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bill Wood Law Office of William C. Wood, LLC

Re: Probation Before Judgement

A PBJ for that many felony counts seems highly unlikely, but would depend on the nature of the charges, whether restitution has been made to he employer, where the case is, and what judge will hear the case. The drug issue is relevant and would most likely be considered by the judge and the State's Attorney. I would strongly recommend retaining a criminal defense attorney.

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Answered on 12/15/08, 1:23 pm


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