WE WIN CASES IN SOUTHERN MARYLAND Top Rated
Criminal Defense Attorneys

Q: I just got arrested for assault in Upper Marlboro. How fast should I call a criminal defense attorney?

A: Call me the minute you walk out of booking. The sooner I jump in, the sooner I can set bail, protect your rights, and lock down witnesses.

Q: Can you really beat a felony drug-possession charge?

A: Yes. I attack the traffic stop, the search warrant, and the lab report. If one link breaks, the state’s case crumbles.

Q: What does “probable cause” mean in my weapons case?

A: Cops need a legit reason to search or detain you. If they guessed or profiled, I move to toss the gun and the charge.

Q: Is a first-offense domestic-violence allegation a big deal?

A: Huge. It can wreck jobs and custody. I gather texts, door-cam video, and witness statements to give the court the full story.

Q: Can a misdemeanor theft conviction be expunged in Maryland?

A: Many can. Once we beat or finish the sentence, I file to wipe it from public view so employers never see it.

Q: What is “PBJ” and why should I want it?

A: Probation Before Judgment keeps a conviction off your record if you stay clean. I push hard for PBJ on first-time DUIs and minor offenses.

Q: Do you handle juvenile shoplifting cases?

A: All the time. I fight for diversion so the kid learns a lesson without a permanent record.

Q: How long does the state have to bring my case to trial?

A: Maryland’s Hicks rule says within 180 days. I hold prosecutors to that clock.

Q: Can you lower my bail on a burglary charge?

A: Yes. I show the judge ties to the community, steady work, and clean history to get you home while we fight.

Q: Will my employer find out about my DUI arrest?

A: Not unless the job requires disclosure or it hits the news. If we beat the charge, you control the narrative.

Q: What happens at a preliminary hearing?

A: The judge decides if there’s enough evidence to keep the case alive. I cross-examine cops and can get charges dropped right there.

Q: Can you fight a field-sobriety test in court?

A: Absolutely. Bad lighting, uneven pavement, medical issues—any of those can sink the test’s reliability.

Q: Do I need a lawyer for a minor marijuana citation?

A: Even small fines add points and show up on background checks. A quick consult can keep your record spotless.

Q: What is a plea bargain and should I take one?

A: A negotiated deal with the prosecutor. I only recommend it if it truly beats the risk of trial.

Q: How do you defend white-collar fraud cases?

A: I dissect the paper trail, hire forensic accountants, and show the jury there was no intent to steal.

Q: Can you appear for me so I don’t miss work?

A: Yes. For most traffic and misdemeanor hearings I can stand in while you keep the paycheck coming.

Q: What is a deferred prosecution agreement?

A: You meet certain conditions—classes, restitution—and the state drops the case. I negotiate these whenever possible.

Q: Will a probation violation land me back in jail?

A: Not if I can show it was minor or beyond your control. I argue for reinstatement, not revocation.

Q: Do you handle expungements for old arrest records?

A: Every month. If the charge was dismissed or you got PBJ, we can likely erase it.

Q: Is refusing a breath test smart or stupid?

A: Depends. You avoid a BAC number but face a license suspension. Let’s weigh the facts before court.

Q: What does a “trial-ready” lawyer actually do?

A: I subpoena body-cam footage, file suppression motions, and prep witnesses so the state knows I will take the fight all the way.

Q: Can you clear an old bench warrant?

A: Yes. I file a motion to recall it and walk you into court so you aren’t arrested at a traffic stop.

Q: Will a protective order show up in background checks?

A: Civil orders can surface in deep searches. I fight to keep them off your record or get them lifted fast.

Q: How do you charge for a felony case?

A: Flat fee, spelled out up front. No mystery bills and no hourly ticking clock.

Q: What is the first step to hire you?

A: Call my office at 301-627-5844. I will review your police report for free and map out a defense plan the same day.

Disclaimer: The info above is just that—information. It’s not legal advice, and reading it doesn’t make me your lawyer. Every case is different, so before you act on anything here, give me a call or talk to another qualified attorney who can look at your specific facts.

Our attorneys at Haskell & Dyer adopt a proactive approach in every case we take on. We meticulously examine every element of the government’s case against you. This includes scrutinizing the evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and seeking out inconsistencies in opposing testimonies. Our primary goal is to establish reasonable doubt. Remember, the government must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. If they cannot meet this stringent standard, we will aggressively push to have the case dismissed, ensuring that justice is served.

Absolutely. Sometimes, the role of a criminal defense attorney extends beyond proving innocence. In cases where a conviction is likely or a plea bargain might be in your best interest, our primary concern shifts to minimizing the negative impact on your life. At Haskell & Dyer, we recognize the importance of securing a future for our clients. Should a plea bargain be on the table, we will negotiate diligently on your behalf. Our attorneys consistently push for alternate or reduced sentences that can help avoid severe repercussions. We are here to protect your rights and promote your best interests, no matter the circumstances.

At Haskell & Dyer, we handle a broad range of criminal cases. Whether you’re facing felony charges, gun charges, white collar crimes, drunk driving offenses, drug-related cases, or even traffic offenses, our team of experienced attorneys is well-equipped to vigorously defend you. We understand the intricacies of each type of case and will strategize accordingly to ensure your rights are protected.

Our attorneys at Haskell & Dyer adopt a proactive approach in every case we take on. We meticulously examine every element of the government’s case against you. This includes scrutinizing the evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and seeking out inconsistencies in opposing testimonies. Our primary goal is to establish reasonable doubt. Remember, the government must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. If they cannot meet this stringent standard, we will aggressively push to have the case dismissed, ensuring that justice is served.

Absolutely. Sometimes, the role of a criminal defense attorney extends beyond proving innocence. In cases where a conviction is likely or a plea bargain might be in your best interest, our primary concern shifts to minimizing the negative impact on your life. At Haskell & Dyer, we recognize the importance of securing a future for our clients. Should a plea bargain be on the table, we will negotiate diligently on your behalf. Our attorneys consistently push for alternate or reduced sentences that can help avoid severe repercussions. We are here to protect your rights and promote your best interests, no matter the circumstances.