Columbia, MD Criminal Defense Attorney

Defending Against Criminal Charges in Columbia, MD

Getting arrested can put you in a difficult position. You might be getting treated like you have already been found guilty, even though you are supposed to be presumed innocent until proven otherwise. If your employer or school found out, you might be facing sanctions. If you were charged with a DUI, you might have already lost your driving privileges, making it very difficult to get anywhere without relying on public transportation.

The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC. is here to help. Our dedicated team of Columbia, MD criminal defense attorneys will do all we can to guard your rights and shield you against potentially very harsh consequences. Even misdemeanors in Maryland can carry years of prison time, while felonies are likely to result in long-term incarceration. Our law firm will fight for you to stay free and keep your record clean.

DUI and Related Offenses

Driving under the influence is one of the most common crimes people are arrested for. It is very easy to underestimate how intoxicated you are when leaving an event, or not to recognize how a prescription medication is impairing your ability to operate a vehicle. If you have been arrested for a DUI, DWI, drug DUI, or felony DUI our attorneys can help. In some cases, we can defend you by showing that the results of your field sobriety test or chemical tests are not reliable.

If this is your first offense, you may be eligible for a program that will help you get treatment for substance abuse rather than traditional punishment. If you are facing a repeat DUI or more serious DUI, we will do all we can to downgrade the level of your offense.

Weapons Offenses

Weapon-related crime is taken very seriously in Maryland. Dangerous weapons - including mace and certain types of knives - are strictly regulated. Carrying a dangerous weapon without a permit, concealed or otherwise, is a crime. Some weapons offenses, like being in possession of a firearm after being convicted of certain offenses, are felonies. If you committed another crime, like rape, by so much as brandishing a weapon, you are likely facing sentencing enhancements.

Assault and Domestic Violence

Assault can be charged as a misdemeanor or as a felony depending on whether the victim suffered serious injuries and whether a weapon was used. Many assault charges stem from fights - including schoolyard fights between juveniles. Depending on what happened, you may have a self-defense claim.

Domestic violence is taken a bit more seriously than simple assault. If the victim was a romantic partner or a family or household member, you are likely to be charged with DV rather than assault. This type of conviction comes with a rather ugly stereotype that may not be true in your case. You will need a skilled attorney to defend you.

Sex Crimes

Sex crimes are among the most serious offenses. If convicted, you would be required to register as a sex offender for at least 15 years or possibly for the rest of your life. This type of conviction can ruin your life, as few employers will hire a sex offender, and even fewer landlords will rent to one. Sex crimes we can help with include child pornography, rape, sexual assault, and online solicitation of a minor. Nearly all sex crimes are felonies.

Murder and Manslaughter

Murder is the deliberate killing of another person. It is widely regarded as the most serious crime a person can commit. Manslaughter refers to the killing of another person that happened in the heat of the moment in response to strong provocation, or an accidental killing caused by reckless or careless behavior.

Contact a Columbia, MD Criminal Defense Attorney

The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC. is committed to helping people who have been accused of a crime. Our dedicated Columbia, MD criminal defense lawyers will fight for you to receive the best outcome possible. Contact us at 301-589-9500 for a complimentary consultation.