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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...

Can the Police Force Me to Provide Them with My DNA?

In the United States, the police can force you to provide a DNA sample under certain circumstances, but this depends on several factors, including the nature of the case, the jurisdiction, and whether you are under arrest. Here's a general overview: If You Are Under...

Must Potential Jurors Be Asked About Bias Against Homosexuality in Maryland Courts?

During the voir dire process, the lawyers can ask questions of potential jurors during jury selection to identify a juror’s potential biases. In criminal cases and those involving issues of discrimination, bias, or civil rights, the question of whether jurors might...

Can a Maryland Court Remove Another Employee from my Job Who is Harassing Me?

Yes, a judge can take legal action to prevent someone who is harassing you from returning to their job, particularly if their job allows them to continue the harassment. This is typically done through peace orders, restraining orders, or workplace restraining orders:...

IS THE USE OF DRONES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT A GOOD THING FOR EVERYONE?

Surveillance and Monitoring: Law enforcement is employing drones to monitor large areas, especially in situations like public events, protests, or crime scenes. They provide a bird’s-eye view, which can be crucial for assessing situations and making informed...

Can a Judge make the losing party pay my legal fees? – Maryland Rule 1-341

In many legal systems, whether the losing party can be required to pay the prevailing party's legal fees depends on the jurisdiction, the nature of the case, and the specific circumstances. Here are some general principles and considerations: General Principles...

Domestic Violence Central Repository

Did you know that Maryland retains records of your peace or protective order cases in its own database even after your case is concluded? Starting in 2020, the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy created the Domestic Violence Central Repository. The...