Criminal Defense Attorney in Anne Arundel County, Maryland
Facing a criminal charge is scary. You're likely worrying about your future, your freedom, and what will happen to your family if you can’t be around to provide for them.
At a time like this, you cannot afford to take chances with an inexperienced lawyer. Seeking a representative who knows the legal system inside and out is vital.
Former Prosecutor Who Knows the Law
Located in Annapolis, Maryland, Kathleen M. Kirchner, Esq. can help. Criminal defense attorney Kathleen Kirchner brings more than 15 years of experience to each case, including her previous work as a prosecutor in Anne Arundel County. She understands how the state builds criminal cases, and she uses that knowledge to protect her clients’ rights and freedoms.
Maryland’s Power List of Criminal Defense Attorneys - Editorial Board of the Maryland Daily Record 2023
Defense Against All Types Of Criminal Charges
Criminal charges have consequences that go beyond whatever sentence is associated with a conviction. A criminal record can impact your future employment, housing applications, and more. It is very important to take all criminal charges seriously.
Attorney Kirchner has the skill and experience necessary to help you fight or otherwise resolve nearly any criminal charge or criminal matter involving:
Peace Orders
Protective Orders
Theft and property crimes
Weapons offenses
Financial crimes and white-collar crimes
Drug charges (possession, intent to distribute, trafficking, etc.)
Constitutional violations
For Aggressive &
Skilled Representation
Reach Out to Kathleen
What You Should Know About Criminal Law In Maryland
Anyone facing criminal charges has many questions that need to be answered. After over 15+ years as a criminal defense attorney and experience as a former prosecutor, attorney Kathleen Kirchner has answers to frequently asked questions about criminal offenses.
Should a person speak with a police officer when arrested?
Consequences of a criminal conviction go beyond fines and jail time. What does this mean?
What actions are considered probation violations in Maryland?
Is recreational marijuana legal in Maryland?
Should You Speak With a Police Officer When Arrested?
The short answer is “no.” The reason is written out in the Miranda warning: “Anything you say, can and will be used against you in a court of law.” Even if you are not under arrest, your words, statements, and actions are potential weak spots for law enforcement to probe.
Every year, across Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, throughout Maryland, and the United States as a whole, police arrest people for crimes they did not commit. Many of those people may have spoken with the police with the best intentions in mind, but the police used those intentions against them.
Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
While the most obvious consequences of a criminal conviction are fines and jail time, the most long-lasting effects are less tangible. A criminal conviction will reflect on your criminal record and that record will follow you across state lines and well after your sentence ends. This can affect your:
future employment status
professional license
housing opportunities
loan applications
Many people consider pleading guilty to a DUI to save time and money on their defense. However, a guilty plea, even with no time served, can disrupt your life in the long term.
Post-Conviction Legal Help
Even if you have been convicted, your case isn’t necessarily over. Kathleen can continue to advocate for your rights and your future with post-conviction relief motions to protect against unreasonably harsh sentencing.
What Actions Are Considered Probation Violations in Maryland?
If you are on probation, you still must meet certain expectations and requirements to maintain your freedom. While minor violations such as a missed meeting with your probation officer may lead to short stints in jail; a judge may revoke probation entirely for other major violations, such as:
getting arrested
violating court orders
failing to register as a sex offender for certain sex offenses
Is Recreational Marijuana Legal in Maryland?
While medical marijuana is legal, as of this writing, Maryland has not legalized recreational marijuana. Possessing 10 grams or less of marijuana is considered a civil offense and is punishable by fines that increase with each repeat offense.
Put Your Mind at Ease. Reach out To a Skilled Defense Attorney.
Kathleen M. Kirchner, Esq., serves clients in Annapolis and throughout Anne Arundel County. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges and looking for experienced guidance, contact the firm to speak with Kathleen.
Contact Kathleen M. Kirchner Attorney At Law to speak with a lawyer today. Free consultations are provided.
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