Maryland’s beautiful beaches and vibrant shore draw thousands of beach partygoers every summer. Unfortunately, with increased celebrations often comes a rise in Driving Under the Influence (DUI) cases. While designating a driver is a responsible first step, it is not always a foolproof approach. This is because even with the best intentions, they may end up arrested for DUI. Parking… The post It’s best to park your car when partying in Ocean City first appeared on Maronick Law LLC ..read more

Yes. Maryland voters approved the recreational use and possession of cannabis under certain circumstances. Beginning July 2023, weed was legalized for those 21 and older and possession is allowed if 1.5 ounces or less. Medical marijuana has been legal in the Old Line state since 2013. The new law also made it easier for people charged or convicted of simple… The post Can I get a cannabis conviction expunged in Maryland? first appeared on Maronick Law LLC ..read more

Yes. A Maryland law that went into effect in October 2023 has significantly reduced the waiting period for certain types of felonies to be expunged. Under previous Maryland law, removing a felony from your criminal record required a 15-year waiting period. The REDEEM Act slashed that timespan. Nonviolent felonies can be expunged after seven years. First-degree, second-degree burglary and felony theft convictions can be expunged after only 10 years. In some instances, expungements can be granted even earlier. For example, if you’re experiencing discrimination in obtaining employment, housing or ..read more

Yes. A Maryland law that went into effect in 2023 has shortened the wait times for getting certain criminal convictions removed from your record. Under previous Maryland law, misdemeanor convictions could only be expunged 10 years after completion of a sentence. The REDEEM Act slashed those timespans. Starting October 2023, nonviolent misdemeanors can be expunged after 5 years. Earlier expungements may be granted in certain instances. For example, if you are experiencing discrimination in obtaining employment, housing or getting into a college or trade school to further your education. Having ..read more

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense with life-changing consequences. In Maryland, the penalties for first-time offenders may be significant, but repeat offenders may receive harsher penalties. Stiff penalties for repeat offenders A second DUI offense may come with a hefty price tag. You can face fines of up to $2,000, a potential jail sentence of up to two years and a mandatory license suspension of 180 days (or 270 days if you refused a chemical test). Still, it may depend on your blood alcohol content so you may need to consult with professionals first. These penalties inc ..read more

Ocean City’s 10-mile stretch of beach and bustling boardwalk attract thousands of tourists annually. As you gear up to soak in its coastal charm, it’s crucial to know that local law enforcement is always on high alert for drunk drivers. Respecting the rules of the road in Maryland may spare you from legal troubles that could follow you back home. DUI risks for out-of-state tourists It can be easy to let your guard down while enjoying what Ocean City has to offer. However, a momentary lapse in judgment and driving after drinking can lead to an arrest, overshadowing your vacation. If an officer ..read more

The issue of underage driving under the influence (DUI) concerns many parents in Maryland. Preventing such dangerous behavior requires a proactive approach from parents. Understanding the laws, having open conversations, and setting a good example significantly impact a teenager’s decisions. Understanding Maryland’s DUI laws for minors Maryland enforces strict DUI laws for minors. The legal drinking age is 21, and it is illegal for those under 21 to drive with any measurable alcohol in their system.  This “Zero Tolerance Law” means even a small amount of alcohol can lead to serious conseq ..read more

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers a clean slate, free from liabilities. Filing for it can wipe away many types of debt, such as credit card charges, medical expenses and personal loans, giving you a chance to rebuild. However, certain debts, like student loans and most taxes, are not dischargeable under Chapter 7 bankruptcy. While Chapter 7 can offer relief, it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. There are certainly benefits to filing for it, but there are also serious consequences. Here are four important impacts to consider. The negative impact on your credit A Chapter 7 bankruptcy can serious ..read more

Recent economic data suggests that consumers in Maryland and across the country are struggling to pay their credit card bills. A report released by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia on April 10 reveals that 30-, 60- and 90-day credit card delinquency rates all rose sharply in the fourth quarter of 2023. The percentage of credit card accounts that are past due by 30 or 60 days is even more worrying. That figure reached a level not seen since the federal reserve started tracking credit card delinquency data in 2012. Minimum payments By the end of the fourth quarter of 2023, almost 3.5% of ..read more

Public intoxication is a serious issue that can lead to various legal consequences. In Maryland, laws regarding public intoxication aim to maintain public safety and order. Knowing the specifics of these laws helps residents and visitors alike avoid unnecessary legal trouble. Definition of public intoxication Maryland law defines public intoxication as a person appearing in a public space under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that they may endanger themselves or others, or cause a disturbance. This is often called “drunk and disorderly conduct.”  Legal implications In Mary ..read more