Our Blog

What to Expect at a Protective Order Hearing in Maryland — and How Long a Final Order Lasts If It’s Granted

What to expect at a Maryland final protective order hearing: the FL §4-506 preponderance standard, your rights in the room, and how long an order lasts.

Second-Degree Assault in a Maryland Domestic Case: Penalties, Defenses, and the Collateral Consequences That Outlast the Sentence

Charged with second-degree assault (Md. Crim. Law §3-203) in a Maryland domestic case? A Rockville defense attorney explains the penalties, defenses, and lasting consequences.

The Difference Between Reckless Driving and Negligent Driving In Maryland

"I must have been going too fast" is frequently the first thought that comes to mind when a driver receives a citation for reckless driving. However, speed is insufficient under Maryland law to support a conviction for reckless driving. Knowing this difference can...

Not Every Touching Is Considered Assault

A common misconception is that any physical contact between two individuals—especially if it is unwelcome—is automatically considered assault. In reality, judges, assault lawyers, and courts take a far more nuanced approach. Not every contact satisfies the...

What Drivers Should Know About Maryland’s Strict New Reckless Driving Law

Driving Too Fast Could Now Lead to Jail In October of 2025 Maryland toughened its reckless driving laws with the passage of The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act,. The law represents a major effort by law makers to stop danger and destructive driving. Speeding 30 MPH Over...

How Maryland Police Decide to Arrest in Domestic Violence Cases

Domestic violence calls are challenging and highly emotional situations for Maryland police officers. Contrary to common assumptions, officers do not base arrest decisions on who is more upset, who called 911 first, or who simply “seems right.” Instead, Maryland law...

May police search my car based on the odor of marijuana?

For many years, Maryland law allowed for a law enforcement officer to search a vehicle at a traffic stop on the grounds that the officer smelled the odor of marijuana, since marijuana was considered an illegal substance, and therefore contraband, in the State of...

Why You Should Submit a Change of Address Form to the Post Office When You Move – Especially for Legal Reasons

Moving to a new home comes with a long to-do list: packing, utilities, new keys, and often, notifying friends and family. But one often-overlooked task can have serious consequences if ignored—submitting a change of address form to the post office. This step is...

LEGAL ADVICE FOR FEUDING NEIGHBORS

It is always best to know a well-trained attorney skilled at winning cases at your disposal. Someone trained in litigating Maryland Peace Orders can save you from facing unwelcome legal stress if you find yourself at odds with an unreasonable neighbor. Before engaging...

Not Competent to Stand Trial vs Not Criminally Responsible: What Do These Terms Mean?

Most Americans over a certain age remember when President Ronald Reagan and three other people were shot by a lone gunman. The accused, John Hinkley, was captured and found not guilty and not criminally responsible for the shooting. Stories like this appear in the...

What to Expect at a Protective Order Hearing in Maryland — and How Long a Final Order Lasts If It’s Granted

Aug 17, 2026 | Peace and Protective Orders

What to expect at a Maryland final protective order hearing: the FL §4-506 preponderance standard, your rights in the room, and how long an order lasts.

Second-Degree Assault in a Maryland Domestic Case: Penalties, Defenses, and the Collateral Consequences That Outlast the Sentence

Jul 15, 2026 | Criminal Defense

Charged with second-degree assault (Md. Crim. Law §3-203) in a Maryland domestic case? A Rockville defense attorney explains the penalties, defenses, and lasting consequences.