Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Fights for Your Freedom

Knowledgeable lawyer handles misdemeanor and civil offense cases in the Gaithersburg area

If you have been charged with a crime in the Gaithersburg area or any part of Maryland, an experienced criminal defense attorney can protect your rights and challenge the evidence brought against you. At The Law Office of Christopher J. Smith, LLC, I provide dedicated support to each client I represent. I am familiar with all facets of the Maryland criminal justice system and am able to guide you through the criminal justice process while ensuring that you fully understand your legal options. My results-oriented approach is intended to help clients move past the difficulty of their criminal charges and onto the next chapter of their lives.

Established firm advocates for defendants charged with drunk driving and theft

In Maryland and Washington, D.C., I represent clients facing prosecution in local and state courts. My firm takes on cases involving various types of alleged misconduct, including:  

  • Misdemeanors — A misdemeanor crime is a serious offense that can result in a significant fine, incarceration or both. Typically, the maximum period of incarceration for a misdemeanor is one or two years, and that's generally the rule in Maryland. However, the state has a complex system of sentencing which allows for longer prison sentences for some offenses classified as misdemeanors.
  • Assault — In Maryland, threats, unwanted or offensive touching, and striking another person with the intent to cause harm are considered assault. There is no separate charge for battery.
  • DUI/DWI — Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in a fine, loss of license, jail time and orders to install ignition devices. If you are charged with a driving under the influence or driving while impaired, you might be facing serious and long-lasting consequences. To protect your license and liberty, you need knowledgeable and determined DUI/DWI defense counsel.
  • Traffic offenses — Traffic infractions are more than an expensive nuisance. Penalty points put your license in jeopardy and drive up the costs of insurance. Charges such as reckless driving are actually misdemeanors, so you can face jail time. 
  • Theft — In Maryland, misdemeanor theft crimes include petty theft of property worth $100 or less, which draws a sentence of up to 90 days jail and/or a fine of up to $500, and misdemeanor theft of property worth $100 to $1,000, for which a sentence of up to 18 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $500 is possible.
  • Destruction of property — Maryland has numerous vandalism laws covering the willful and malicious destruction of property. If property is valued at less than $1,000, the misdemeanor offense could earn up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. For damage equal to or exceeding $1,000, a misdemeanor conviction can draw up to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.

Whatever the particular allegation entails, I aggressively seek the best possible result, which can include charges being dropped, an acquittal at trial or a favorable plea agreement.

Dedicated litigator protects clients' rights upon arrest  

From the moment you call, I work to safeguard your fundamental rights, especially your rights to remain silent and prevent questioning without an attorney present. In most cases, the accused has a right to be charged or released within a short time, and be able to post reasonable bail if you are charged. The sooner you call, the sooner I can begin working towards a favorable resolution.               

Can someone appeal their criminal conviction?  

If a criminal case goes to trial, a defendant has a right to appeal a conviction based on errors in the application of the law during the proceedings. For example, if a judge refused to exclude evidence from an unlawful search, and that evidence led to a conviction, you could appeal the judge's decision. If the appellate court rules the evidence should not have been admitted, you could get a new trial.

Does a defendant who plans to plead guilty need an attorney?           

It's vitally important to have an attorney even if you believe the facts are against you. An experienced lawyer can negotiate effectively with prosecutors and present a strong argument for leniency. Many first-time offenders can avoid jail time if they have a capable defense lawyer who can convince a judge that probation or community service will serve justice.

Contact a determined Maryland attorney to provide your criminal defense

The Law Office of Christopher J. Smith, LLC in Gaithersburg represents Maryland and Washington, D.C. clients accused of civil offenses and misdemeanors. Call 301-760-7460 or contact me online to schedule a free consultation. My office stands ready to represent you in your criminal matter.

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Location

  • Gaithersburg Office

    Address

    257 Market Street W,
    Suite 100,
    Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878

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Reviews & Ratings

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  • google
    5.0/5.0

    — Jamid Ali Knight

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    Chris was very helpful in resolving my case. He came highly recommended by a previous lawyer, who really did not want to take my case on directly, and suggested Chris might have more experience with my case. Chris was very professional, tim...
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    — Sandra Cotton

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    — B

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    Chris is beyond amazing, I can’t thank him enough for his help. If you need someone that’s really going to fight for you Chris is your guy.

    — Monique cluff

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    Experience was great!!! Fast and professional great work

    — Jesse Dent