Misdemeanors Attorney Serving Glen Burnie & Columbia MD

Although misdemeanor charges are not as serious as felony offenses, that does not mean you should not take them seriously and get the proper legal representation if you are charged with one.

The fact is that even a relatively “minor” crime can affect your freedom, your finances and your future opportunities when it comes to your career or education, which is why the Law Office of Matthew Kunka takes misedemenaor charges very seriously and works hard to ensure that all out clients, no matte rhow big or small their charge may be, is handled properly with attention to detail and the most robust legal defense presented for clients in Glen Burnie, Columbia, and the surrounding Maryland areas.

Sound good? Read on to find out more about misdemeanor charges and how Matt Kunka can help.

Understanding Misdemeanors vs. Felonies

In Maryland, criminal charges are generally divided into two distinct categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Felonies are typically considered the most serious crimes—such as murder, rape, and armed robbery—and often come with the possibility of extensive prison time and hefty fines. Misdemeanors, while less severe than felonies, still carry serious repercussions that can lead to jail time, probation, and other penalties.

Common examples of misdemeanor offenses in Maryland include:

• Theft (under certain monetary thresholds)
• Vandalism
• Disorderly conduct
• Assault (simple or minor)
• Possession of small quantities of certain controlled substances
• Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI), depending on the circumstances
• Public intoxication
• Trespassing
• Certain traffic offenses

Even though misdemeanors are regarded as “lower-level” offenses, a conviction can still come with long-term ramifications. These might include restrictions on your ability to hold certain professional licenses, a challenge in securing employment, and reputational damage in personal and professional circles. Our job is to protect you from these negative outcomes and ensure that your rights are safeguarded throughout the legal process.

How Misdemeanor Charges Can Impact Your Life

A misdemeanor might not seem daunting at first glance, but failing to address charges aggressively and proactively can be a costly mistake. Here are some ways misdemeanor charges can affect your life:

1. Jail Time and Fines: Many misdemeanor convictions carry maximum jail sentences ranging from several days to up to a year, depending on the severity of the crime. Even a short period behind bars can derail your personal and professional life, causing disruptions at work and at home. Fines can create financial strain, especially if you are already handling other financial obligations.
2. Criminal Record: One of the biggest long-term consequences of a misdemeanor conviction is having a criminal record. Once you have a conviction on your record, it may be more difficult to qualify for jobs, college admissions, housing, and certain professional licenses. A clear criminal record is often necessary for positions involving trust or security clearance, meaning a misdemeanor can close doors to opportunities you might otherwise have pursued.
3. Probation and Community Service: In some cases, judges impose probation in lieu of jail time. While this is often preferable to incarceration, probation usually comes with a set of strict requirements, such as regular check-ins, mandatory counseling, or substance abuse treatment. Violating these requirements can lead to harsher penalties, including incarceration. Community service can also be a component of a sentence and needs to be completed on strict timelines.
4. Loss of Privileges: Certain misdemeanor convictions, such as those involving alcohol or drugs, can affect driving privileges. You might face suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, limiting your ability to travel to work or school. Additionally, you could lose rights related to firearm possession or find your eligibility for federal student aid impacted by specific drug-related offenses.
5. Reputation Damage: Personal relationships can suffer, and you might be subject to negative social stigmas after a misdemeanor conviction. In many industries, employers perform thorough background checks, putting your professional reputation and future job prospects at risk.

Given these potential consequences, it is essential to enlist the services of a skilled misdemeanors attorney. At Kunka Law, we approach every misdemeanor charge with the seriousness and dedication it deserves.

The Role of a Misdemeanors Attorney

The criminal justice system can be complex, confusing, and stressful for anyone without a background in law. When you hire a misdemeanors attorney, you gain a trusted advocate who understands the intricate rules, procedures, and strategies necessary for the best outcome in your case. Your attorney will:

1. Investigate Your Case: This includes reviewing police reports, identifying witnesses, examining evidence, and verifying facts. By conducting a thorough investigation, an attorney can identify procedural errors, misconduct, or weak evidence, all of which can be used to your advantage during negotiations or trial.
2. Develop a Strong Defense Strategy: Every misdemeanor case is different and requires a tailored defense strategy. Your attorney will use legal precedents, negotiate with the prosecution, and challenge the validity of any questionable evidence. A well-prepared defense can lead to dismissed charges, reduced sentences, or beneficial plea agreements.
3. Represent You in Court: Should your case move to trial, your attorney will represent you before a judge or jury. Effective courtroom advocacy includes drafting legal motions, questioning witnesses, and delivering compelling arguments that highlight any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
4. Negotiate with Prosecutors: Skilled defense attorneys can often negotiate plea bargains to reduce your charge or the associated penalties. This could mean avoiding a permanent criminal record, securing less jail time, or minimizing fines and probation requirements.
5. Provide Guidance and Support: Facing a misdemeanor charge can be a frightening and unsettling experience, especially if this is your first encounter with the criminal justice system. A supportive attorney will explain your rights, keep you updated on the progress of your case, and address any concerns you have along the way.

By entrusting your case to a dedicated misdemeanors attorney like Matthew Kunka, you enhance your chances of a positive case outcome and give yourself the peace of mind you need during this challenging time.

Common Misdemeanor Offenses We Handle

At Kunka Law, we represent individuals who face a broad range of misdemeanor charges. Some of the most common cases we handle include:

• Theft: Whether it is shoplifting or petit theft, a misdemeanor theft charge can carry serious legal and financial consequences. We investigate the details of your case to determine whether the prosecution has sufficient evidence to prove that you intended to permanently deprive the rightful owner of the property.
• Vandalism: Acts of vandalism involve the destruction or defacement of property. We look at the specifics of the incident to see if there is room to argue mistaken identity, lack of intent, or other mitigating circumstances that might reduce or dismiss the charges.
• Disorderly Conduct: Broadly defined, disorderly conduct encompasses a range of behaviors, including public drunkenness, loitering, or disturbing the peace. We thoroughly examine the context and specific actions taken, as well as the constitutionality of the arrest, to determine the best defense.
• Simple Assault: Simple assault involves threatening or causing minor physical harm to another individual without the use of a deadly weapon. Self-defense, lack of intent, or insufficient evidence can often serve as a strong defense in these cases.
• Public Intoxication: Public intoxication laws are designed to protect the general public. However, these charges sometimes arise from misunderstandings or questionable law enforcement practices. We scrutinize the evidence and procedures used to ensure your rights were not violated.
• Drug Possession (Small Quantities): Drug possession charges can carry heavy consequences. Our firm works to identify any procedural errors, such as unlawful search and seizure, and advocates for treatment programs or other alternatives to a traditional conviction, when appropriate.
• Traffic Offenses: Although traffic violations might seem minor, some can escalate into criminal misdemeanors. By acting quickly and working with an experienced attorney, you can safeguard your driving privileges and reduce the negative impact on your record.

Regardless of the specific charge, we strive to build a defense strategy that reflects the unique facts of your case. Our priority is to provide an aggressive and comprehensive approach that upholds your constitutional rights every step of the way.

Our Approach to Misdemeanor Defense

At the Law Office of Matthew Kunka, we approach every misdemeanor case with diligence and a focus on strategic defense. This process begins with a comprehensive case review, during which we examine evidence, gather witness statements, and explore any mitigating factors that could reduce the severity of the charge. We also pay special attention to potential violations of your constitutional rights, such as illegal search or improper detention.

In situations where the evidence appears strong, negotiation skills become critical. With years of experience handling misdemeanor charges in Glen Burnie, Columbia, and the surrounding Maryland areas, we have developed long-standing relationships within the local judicial system. These connections allow us to communicate effectively with prosecutors and judges, potentially opening doors for favorable plea bargains or alternative sentencing options like diversion programs, community service, or probation in lieu of jail time.

If your case proceeds to trial, we will provide steadfast representation in the courtroom. From crafting compelling opening statements to cross-examining prosecution witnesses, our goal is always to highlight any cracks in the State’s case and argue for the best possible outcome. Throughout this process, we maintain open lines of communication, ensuring you understand each step and feel empowered to make informed decisions.

Why Choose Kunka Law?

1. Local Expertise: We have years of experience representing clients in Glen Burnie, Columbia, and nearby Maryland communities. This local focus means we understand the legal landscape, including court procedures and the predispositions of area prosecutors and judges.
2. Personalized Attention: We recognize that no two misdemeanor cases are exactly alike. Whether you are facing a first-time offense or have a prior criminal record, we adapt our approach to suit your specific needs, personal background, and goals.
3. Proven Results: Our track record includes successfully obtaining dismissals, reduced charges, or advantageous plea agreements. We take pride in our ability to secure positive outcomes, and we vigorously represent every client in a way that reflects our commitment to justice.
4. Client-Centered Communication: Legal jargon can be intimidating, and not fully understanding your charges or your rights can leave you feeling powerless. We make it a priority to explain the legal process, the meaning of various legal terms, and the potential consequences of any legal strategy.
5. Respect and Compassion: Facing criminal charges can create anxiety and uncertainty for you and your family. Our firm values compassion and will never treat you as just another case number. We are committed to listening to your concerns and working towards solutions tailored to your life and future.

Need help with a misdemeanor charge? Get in touch with the Kunka Law for professional help you can trust today!