A Criminal attorney Hagerstown is any legal professional that counsels a client in criminal proceedings. Criminal proceedings consist of both felony and misdemeanor charges. Each offense has a different classification which provides legal counsel with a general idea of the probable sentence received in the event that the accused is convicted.
Felonies in MD
Among the highest classified felonies are murder charges. In Maryland, there are three different classifications for murder. They are listed as first, second, or felony murder charges. They are classified by severity and intent. In a court of law, any murder which is proven to be planned and executed is considered first degree. Second degree charges prove malicious intent and may not have been planned. The basic felony charge is a murder that resulted from separate or non-related crime. Manslaughter is another option for classification for these charges, but only applies if it is proven that the accused did not intent to cause the death.
Sentencing for Felonies
A Criminal attorney Hagerstown is familiar with probable sentencing for felonies. For instance, first-degree murder charges once convicted produce a sentence of either life in prison or the death penalty. Second-degree murder which is a less charge generates a sentence of up to life in prison. The decision of the jury affects these decisions. Ultimately, sentencing is up to the judge presiding over the case. It is up to the selected criminal lawyer to present evidence that will produce reasonable doubt, which may prevent a conviction.
Expunging a Charge from Your Record
A criminal lawyer can file a petition to have a felony charge expunged from your record. If you are convicted of the felony charge this is not an option for you. If the charges were dropped, or you were found innocent of the crime, there is still a public record of this case and you still have a record showing the charge. The only way for the charge to be removed from your criminal record is to hire a lawyer to expunge it from your record. These listings on your criminal history may affect your life in several ways. It may prevent you from acquiring employment, which is why this process is necessary.
