Ocean City Criminal Defense Attorney
Defending Against Criminal Charges in Worcester County, MD
A vacation is an opportunity to get away from your job and your day-to-day responsibilities and enjoy yourself. For many people, vacations at Ocean City involve some amount of alcohol, which can sometimes put you in situations where you are facing criminal charges.
At the MacDonald Law Office, LLC, we regularly represent vacationers to the local resort areas who are charged with crimes, including DUI and DWI. We are former prosecutors who have been practicing law locally since 1995. Andrew MacDonald was an assistant state's attorney for Wicomico County for 10 years. We have offices in both Salisbury and Ocean City, Maryland.
Have you been accused of a criminal offense? Call the MacDonald Law Office, LLC, today at (410) 348-7809 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our Ocean City criminal defense attorneys. Serving throughout Worcester County.
What are Common Types of Vacation Criminal Charges in Worcester County?
Many people who come to vacation in Ocean City expect to be given some room to enjoy themselves and relieve some stress from everyday life. However, local authorities are very conscious of portraying the city as a family resort, and the police aggressively enforce all types of laws, including so-called nuisance laws.
We are experienced at providing criminal defense services to vacationers and tourists accused of Maryland criminal offenses such as:
- DUI/drunk driving
- Drug charges
- Assault and domestic assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Juvenile offenses
- Indecent exposure
- Sex offenses
- Noise violations
- Malicious destruction of property
- Burglary/breaking and entering
The high volume of vacationers during the summertime puts several stresses on the local criminal justice system. Inexperienced seasonal police officers are hired and often make mistakes. Prosecutors also make mistakes due to the high volume of cases. We are aware of these issues and mindful of the criminal defense opportunities presented by them.
Most of our Ocean City clients are first offenders who need to keep their records clean. There are pre-trial diversionary programs available in Worcester County for many misdemeanors and drug offenses. We know how to get our first-offender clients into these programs when appropriate. In addition, there are other options, such as probation before judgment and expungement, for protecting the records of those clients who uncharacteristically stray into the criminal justice system.
What is The Criminal Justice Process in Maryland?
Facing criminal charges is stressful, but legal representation can make a difference in the outcome. An Ocean City criminal lawyer provides a strong defense strategy, ensuring that every client receives fair treatment under the law. Whether accused of a misdemeanor or felony, working with an experienced legal advocate can help protect one’s future and freedom.
- Arrest and Booking: When law enforcement makes an arrest, the accused is booked, photographed, and fingerprinted. Charges are formally filed, and the defendant may be held in custody until bail is determined.
- Bail and Bond Hearings: Depending on the severity of the charges, bail may be set at the defendant’s first court appearance. Ocean City criminal lawyers advocate for reasonable bail or alternative release conditions.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Plea Bargaining: During pre-trial proceedings, motions may be filed to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or reduce penalties. Plea negotiations may result in reduced charges or sentencing recommendations.
- Trial and Sentencing: If a case proceeds to trial, Ocean City criminal defense attorneys present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge prosecution arguments. Sentencing follows a conviction, with penalties ranging from fines and probation to incarceration.
