In the realm of criminal law, statutes of limitations play a crucial role in defining the time frame within which legal proceedings must be initiated. These statutes are designed to ensure timely and efficient prosecution while also protecting individuals from facing charges long after the alleged offense. In Maryland, the statutes of limitations for various crimes are clearly outlined in state law. However, when it comes to the possession of child pornography, the state adopts a distinct appro...

In 2023, Maryland enacted a pivotal law preventing police officers from stopping and searching vehicles solely based on the odor of cannabis. This legislation marked a significant shift in the state's approach to cannabis-related offenses, reflecting a...

In recent years, driving under the influence (DUI) has been a significant public safety issue in Maryland, as it has been across the United States. To curb the devastating effects of drunk driving, Maryland has implemented stringent measures over the years. One of the most notable changes soon to take effect is the mandatory use of ignition interlocks for all persons convicted of DUI, including those who receive probation before judgment (PBJ).

Understanding the New DUI Le...

Maryland is on the brink of significant legal reforms regarding its rape statutes, marking a pivotal moment in the state's approach to sexual assault cases. These changes, driven by recent legislative efforts and the advocacy of various groups, aim to redefine how consent is understood and legally validated in the state.

Key Legislative Changes

1. House Bill 496: Redefining Consent and Removing Force Requirement In a groundbreaking move, Maryland's General Assem...
   

In 2022, Maryland implemented significant reforms in its juvenile justice system, aimed at prioritizing rehabilitation over punishment for young offenders. These reforms included provisions requiring the presence of an attorney during juvenile interrogations and setting a minimum age for charging juvenile offenders with non-violent offenses, typically at 13 years old. Despite these positive changes, juveniles can still face serious consequences, including being charged as adults for certain crimes.

Under ...

July 1, 2023, marked a significant milestone in Maryland's cannabis legislation. On this date, the state took a bold step towards reforming its marijuana laws, effectively precluding police from searching a vehicle solely based on the odor of marijuana. This groundbreaking change has far-reaching implications for both law enforcement and individuals in Maryland, as it prioritiz...

In recent years, the landscape of cannabis laws in the United States has been rapidly evolving, with many states adopting more permissive attitudes toward its use and possession. Maryland, like several other states, has taken significant steps to decriminalize and regulate cannabis. These changes have had a profound effect on various aspects of law enforcement, including how police dogs are used to detect controlled ...

In a new and groundbreaking ruling, the Maryland Supreme Court in Abruquah v. Maryland, handed down a decision that sets limits on the use of bullet evidence in courts across the state. This landmark ruling has sparked debates among legal experts and citizens alike, as it raises crucial questions about the reliability and admissibility of such evidence. In this article, we will delve int...

Child pornography is a serious crime in Maryland, and those convicted of this offense can face harsh penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and registration as a sex offender. If you have been accused of possessing, distributing, or producing child pornography in Maryland, you may be wondering if there are any affirmative defenses for child pornography that could potentially help you avoid conviction.

In this blog post, we will discuss some of the affirmative defenses that may be available in Maryland ...