Your Towson criminal law lawyer explains what to expect after your arrest.
Getting arrested can be a stressful and even frightening ordeal, and can become even more so when you don’t know what steps to take next. There are, in fact, several things you will have to do after an arrest to make sure that you follow the legal process correctly. To help you feel a little more prepared for this process, your Towson criminal law lawyer at Simons & Goldner is here to explain what you can expect immediately after being arrested.
What Happens First After an Arrest
After being arrested, you will be taken before a Maryland District Court Commissioner, who will determine if a probable cause exists to charge you. The commissioner will do the following:
- Ensure that you understand the charges against you and the potential penalties you could face
- Advise you of your right to an attorney
- Advise you of your responsibilities in obtaining an attorney
- Decide whether you qualify to be represented by a Public Defender
- Determine whether bail should be set
You must provide the commissioner with any information they request to make their decisions.
A Preliminary Inquiry
A preliminary inquiry is a pre-trial hearing during which you will be advised of your rights, the charges against you, and possible penalties. A judicial officer conducts the inquiry after you have been charged with a jailable offense by citation or summons. If you receive a citation or summons for a preliminary inquiry, you must appear at the scheduled date and time. If you are not provided with a time, appear within five business days. The inquiry will be canceled if an attorney enters their appearance to represent you.
Which Court May Hear Your Case
The Maryland District Court hears most cases involving motor vehicle violations, criminal misdemeanors, and certain felonies. The circuit court is the court that hears cases involving serious felony crimes.
Why a Lawyer is Recommended
After you are arrested, you are not required to have a lawyer. However, acquiring a Towson criminal law lawyer will help immensely. Your lawyer can give you legal advice, help defend you, and explain any potential collateral consequences of a conviction, and they can work to protect your interests before the court.
Let Simons & Goldner, P.A. Represent You
Simons & Goldner, P.A., located in Lutherville, MD, consists of two partners, Stevan G. Simons and Richard H. Goldner practicing primarily in personal injury, medical malpractice, Worker’s Compensation, and criminal law. The partners come with decades of experience assisting clients injured by the negligence of others or injured on the job. We serve clients in the Baltimore, Towson, Essex and Dundalk area and work closely with our clients to ensure that your case moves quickly and efficiently and that you get all the benefits to which you are entitled.
Initial consultations are available by phone or in-person and are free of charge. Contact us now to schedule a consultation, or call us today at 410-296-3110. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn for advice and updates.
