Silver Spring Misdemeanors & Felonies Defense Attorneys

Misdemeanors & Felonies Lawyers Advocating for Clients Near Silver Spring, MD

Getting charged with any crime can be a terrifying experience. Even a misdemeanor conviction can be life-altering. A criminal record can follow you for life and close a lot of doors along the way. Anyone who runs a background check on you—potential employers, landlords, your child's school if you volunteer, or even cautious dating partners—will be able to see your conviction and may deny you an opportunity. Fortunately, there is a lot a lawyer can do to help you keep your record clean or reduce the seriousness of your offense.

The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC. is highly skilled in building strong criminal defense arguments to protect our clients. You have rights, even if it does not feel like it right now. Our attorneys will consider every aspect of your case to design a defense strategy. We will work closely with you and take the time to understand your needs and priorities so that we can plan the defense that is best for you.

What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?

A misdemeanor is a less serious offense, while a felony is a more serious offense. Most states cap the potential sentence for a misdemeanor at one year of jail time. Maryland, however, does not. Some misdemeanors are punishable by up to a decade in prison, although sentencing that harsh is generally unlikely unless there are severe aggravating circumstances.

The sentencing for felony offenses more commonly involves years behind bars. People convinced of felonies also face certain restrictions, such as not being allowed to possess a dangerous weapon.

Lawyers for Misdemeanor Crimes in Bethesda, MD

Some of the misdemeanors we can help with include:

• DUI, Drug DUI, and DWI - Driving while drunk or under the influence of drugs is a very common offense, but it is one that is taken seriously due to the risk to the public.
• Simple assault - Minor assaults that do not involve weapons or serious injuries are usually charged as misdemeanors.
• Domestic violence - Fights between family members or romantic partners may lead to this serious charge.
• Drug possession - A drug possession arrest is often a sign that a person is struggling with addiction and needs help, not jail time.
• Underage drinking - It is fairly normal for teenagers and 20-year-olds to try alcohol, but getting caught can leave a stain on their records.

Felony Defense Attorneys Serving Montgomery County, MD

Felony offenses are extremely serious and can result in losing years of your life to the prison system. Felonies we can help with include:

• Sex crimes - Sex crimes such as child pornography, rape, or some forms of sexual assault are felonies. Post-conviction, you would be required to register as a sex offender.
• Felony assault - Felony assault involves serious injury to the victim or the use of a weapon.
• Felony weapons crimes - Weapon-related crimes like possession of a dangerous ordinance or possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain offenses are taken very seriously.
• Murder and manslaughter - Killing another person, either deliberately (murder) or in the heat of the moment or through carelessness (manslaughter) is an incredibly serious charge.
• Drug trafficking and distribution - These crimes are far more serious than simple possession. While people who only possess personal use amounts may be seen as victims of the drug epidemic, traffickers and distributors are more likely to be seen as taking advantage of those struggling with addiction.
• Felony DUI - A DUI can be charged as a felony in certain situations, such as if someone was seriously injured or killed or if you are a repeat offender.

Contact a Silver Spring, MD Lawyer for Felonies & Misdemeanors

The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC. is experienced in defending people who are facing criminal prosecution for all types of crimes, from minor misdemeanors to the most serious felonies. Our dedicated team of Silver Spring, MD criminal defense attorneys will do all we can to protect your rights and reduce or eliminate the impact your charges will have on your life going forward. Contact us at 301-589-9500 for a complimentary consultation.