Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyer
Criminal charges are serious, and you need to take them seriously. No criminal charge is minor. With any charge, you could be facing jail time, fines and other penalties. Depending on the crime you have been arrested for, the resulting record can also have an effect on your future employment opportunities.
I am Charles L. Waechter, a criminal defense lawyer with more than 40 years of experience defending clients in Baltimore County. I have the knowledge, resources and skills to defend you from your charges. Contact me for a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
Over my more than four decades of defense practice, I have built a reputation for providing quality defense to clients charged with criminal offenses and traffic violations. This includes cases involving:
- Child pornography — possession and distribution
- Sex offenses — sexual assault, solicitation of a minor and statutory rape
- Medicaid fraud — overbilling for services, charging for services not provided and similar charges against medical providers
- Drug crimes — possession, possession with intent to sell and manufacturing of narcotics and marijuana
- Violent offenses — assault and battery
- Theft crimes — employee theft, shoplifting and burglary
- Traffic offenses — driving with a suspended license, speeding tickets and reckless driving
- Weapons charges — handgun offenses and illegal possession of a firearm
- Drunk driving — first-offense, second-offense and third-offense DUI
I will thoroughly review the facts and examine the evidence in your case. I will leverage every resource, along with my knowledge of legal practice in Baltimore County, to work to have your charges dismissed or the penalties reduced in your favor.
What Should You Do Immediately Following An Arrest?
Following an arrest, the most important step is to remain calm and protect your rights. You are not required to answer any questions or provide explanations to the police without first consulting an attorney. Immediately assert your right to remain silent and politely inform the officers that you will not answer any questions until you have legal representation.
Contacting a skilled criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible can make a significant difference in your case. I will take immediate action to review the details of your arrest and start building a defense strategy. Some of the key steps I take include:
- Reviewing the charges and any evidence collected against you
- Identifying potential violations of your rights during the arrest process
- Gathering any witnesses or evidence that can support your defense
Early intervention can make a significant difference, whether we work to get the charges reduced or dismissed entirely.
Am I Required To Speak To The Police?
No, you are not required to speak to the police. The Fifth Amendment guarantees your right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination. While it might feel tempting to explain your side of the story, any statements you make can be used against you, even if you believe they are innocent or helpful. The police may attempt to pressure you into speaking, but you do not have to answer their questions without an attorney present.
As your defense lawyer, I will communicate with law enforcement on your behalf, making sure that your rights are protected at all times. This approach limits the risk of unintentionally damaging your case or providing information that could later be used against you.
What Are The Consequences Of A Criminal Conviction?
A criminal conviction can result in severe and lasting consequences. Depending on the nature of the charges, you could be facing jail or prison time, hefty fines and probation. However, the impact of a conviction often extends beyond the immediate penalties.
A criminal record can affect your ability to secure employment, find housing and maintain personal relationships. Additionally, certain convictions can result in the loss of professional licenses or certifications, severely limiting future opportunities. The consequences include:
- Permanent criminal record
- Loss of employment opportunities
- Financial strain from fines and legal penalties
I am committed to working diligently to either reduce the penalties or have the charges dismissed entirely, protecting your future and minimizing the long-term effects of a conviction.
Contact An Experienced Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
Initial consultations are free of charge at my firm. Contact me, defense attorney Charles L. Waechter, at 1-410-886-7476 to schedule an appointment at one of my four Maryland office locations: Baltimore, Bel Air, Ocean City or Annapolis.
