College students who get into trouble with the law may have concerns about the impact of their criminal record on their job prospects. Maryland law allows residents to request an expungement of some types of criminal charges. Which charges can you request an...
Drawing the line between hazing and initiation
College years should be full of new experiences and growth, but there is often trepidation about being in a new place. Making friends and feeling a sense of belonging is important, and many students seek out fraternities and sororities to fill this need. For most,...
Can a drug conviction make students ineligible for financial aid?
Once you leave for college and get a taste of freedom, you may find yourself partying and doing things you might not do under your parents’ watch. If one of those things involves using drugs, you may want to take some time to recognizes the possible consequences that...
When a family member faces jail time
Facing arrest is difficult for obvious reasons, but what often gets overlooked is the suffering of those close to the defendant. Family members face fear, anxiety, anger and other difficult emotions when a loved one is arrested and incarcerated in jail or prison. The...
Crime tends to rise in the summer months
For most people, summer brings a rush of heat, happiness and fun. For others, it portends a rise in crime, both nonviolent and violent. A study from the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) confirms that crimes of several varieties tend to spike in the summer, for a...
What are some common defenses to a DUI charge?
A DUI conviction can alter your future because of the severe consequences associated with this crime. If convicted of drinking and driving, you may have to pay a large fine, spend time in jail or go a certain period of time without driving privileges. You could face...
Can you get kicked out of school because of criminal charges?
If you’re like most young adults, there will be times when you go out to parties, bars or events with friends and acquaintances. It’s important to make sure that you take care of yourself when you’re there and to be sure you don’t do anything that breaks the law. If...
What constitutes legal search and seizure?
Getting stopped by the police does not mean you have to consent to a search. The Fourth Amendment protects everyone from illegal search and seizure. What constitutes a legal search and seizure? Maryland law gives specific grounds that police must follow if the court...
3 ways that drinking at a party might lead to assault charges
Going out with your friends to a party or a bar is a great way to pass a night on the weekend. You can meet new people and blow off some steam. Unfortunately, some people take their partying too far and wind up doing something that hurts someone else. Parties often...
3 ways that criminal charges affect college students
Criminal charges are a stressful experience at any age and station in life. However, they can have far more devastating consequences for those in particular social positions. Students, especially college students, have increased risk associated with criminal charges,...