Towson Felony Defense Attorney

Defense Attorney for Felony Criminal Charges in Towson, Maryland

The most serious criminal offenses people can face in Maryland are classified as felonies. These crimes carry severe penalties that can include lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and ongoing collateral consequences that may affect a person for their entire life. For those facing felony charges in Towson, Maryland, and the surrounding areas, the stakes are incredibly high. Legal guidance and representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney can be essential in these cases. At Seger Law, LLC, we provide guidance to defendants who are facing felony charges, helping them understand what steps they can take to defend against a conviction or minimize the penalties that may affect their lives.

Felony Offenses Under Maryland Law

In Maryland, felony offenses include a broad array of crimes. They are more serious than misdemeanors, and they often carry long multi-year prison sentences and thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in fines. A convicted felon will also experience difficulties in their life, even after completing their sentence. Many employers will not hire a person with a criminal record, and a person may also struggle to obtain housing, or they may be unable to pursue an education. Defending against a felony conviction can help a person avoid these collateral consequences while also protecting their reputation and their freedom.

There are many different types of crimes that are classified as felonies in Maryland, including:

• Felony DUI: While most drunk or intoxicated driving charges in Maryland will be classified as misdemeanors, causing someone's death while committing DUI is a felony offense. A first offense can result in a prison sentence of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $5,000. If a person had previously been convicted of a DUI offense, they may face a maximum 10-year sentence and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.
• Drug distribution and drug trafficking: The manufacture, distribution, or trafficking of controlled substances is treated with utmost severity in Maryland. Selling or distributing controlled substances may result in a sentence of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $15,000. Transporting drugs into Maryland from another state or country may result in a maximum prison sentence of 25 years and/or a maximum fine of $50,000.
• First-degree assault: This offense involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause serious physical harm, including through the use of a firearm or another deadly weapon or by strangling a person. A person who is convicted of this crime may be sentenced to up to 25 years.
• Murder: First-degree murder, which generally involves intentional or premeditated killing, can result in a life sentence. Killing someone in other circumstances may result in second-degree murder charges, and a person who is convicted may be sentenced to up to 40 years.
• Sexual assault: Engaging in sexual intercourse with someone without their consent may result in charges of first-degree or second-degree rape, and penalties can range from 15 years to life in prison. First-degree, second-degree, or third-degree sexual offenses, which involve sexual contact other than intercourse without consent, are also classified as felonies. A third-degree sexual offense carries a sentence of up to 10 years, and the penalties for first-degree or second-degree sexual offenses range from 15 years to a life sentence.
• Theft of more than $1,500: Stealing property or services with a value higher than $1,500 is a felony offense in Maryland. Theft of $1,500 to $25,000 may result in a sentence of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Theft of $25,000 to $100,000 may result in a sentence of up to 10 years and/or a fine of up to $15,000. Theft of $100,000 or more may result in a sentence of up to 20 years and/or a fine of up to $25,000.

These examples illustrate the breadth of felony offenses in Maryland, each demanding a robust legal defense given the potential for life-altering penalties.

Contact Our Towson, MD Felony Defense Lawyer

When facing felony charges in Maryland, representation from a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can be crucial. At Seger Law, LLC, we are dedicated to defending the rights of people who have been accused of serious crimes. Attorney Chelsey Seger uses her experience working as a prosecutor to help clients build successful defense strategies. To learn more about how we can help you defend against a felony conviction, contact us at 443-208-4692 and schedule a free consultation today.