Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney

How to Defend Yourself From Criminal Charges in Maryland

Navigating Maryland’s criminal justice system without the guidance of an experienced defense attorney can lead to devastating consequences. Maryland’s law enforcement agencies and state prosecutors have extensive resources, which are often fully leveraged to secure a criminal conviction. If you’re being questioned by police or if you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, seeking advice and guidance from our Maryland criminal attorney is vital to protect your legal rights and freedoms.

Our firm, the Law Offices of Sandra Guzman Salvado, stands ready to help and ensure that your legal rights and freedoms are protected throughout the process. We also provide guidance on how to respond to police questioning, help understand the charges and potential consequences, and develop a legal strategy tailored to your specific situation. It’s important to remember that legal counsel is a fundamental right, especially in situations involving potential criminal charges in Maryland.

Meet Criminal Defense Attorney Michael Fortini

Michael Fortini is an experienced criminal trial attorney with admissions to practice in the State of Maryland, the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, and the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from The American University Washington College of Law, earning his place in the prestigious Order of the Coif.

Additionally, Michael holds a Master of Arts in Philosophy from George Mason University.

Before joining the litigation team at the Law Offices of Sandra Guzman-Salvado, Michael independently managed his general practice law firm in Maryland. His firm specialized in Family Law, Criminal Defense, and Civil Rights litigation.

Before establishing his practice, he gained significant experience at a Washington, D.C.-based boutique law firm, focusing primarily on Criminal Defense and Civil Rights. Here, he notably represented clients in cases of employment discrimination, education discrimination, and police misconduct.

Our Law Firm’s Criminal Defense Areas of Practice

Our Maryland law firm’s criminal defense practice covers a wide range of felony and misdemeanor charges, such as:

• Battery
• DUI
• DWI
• Drug charges
• Theft
• Traffic offenses
• all other criminal charges

The Difference Between DWI and DUI Charges in Maryland

In Maryland, DWI typically pertains to driving while impaired, and individuals may face this charge if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) falls between 0.07 and 0.08 percent. When charged with DWI, it’s typically necessary to undergo a breath test to determine if your BAC is below the legal limit.

It’s worth noting that many drivers’ BAC tests may be below the legal limit, but they might exhibit other signs of impairment, such as erratic driving or failing a field sobriety test. Under DWI laws, such impairment is considered hazardous, potentially resulting in a license suspension and potential penalties upon conviction.

In contrast, DUI stands for driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. Maryland’s legal limit for operating a vehicle is 0.08 percent, and exceeding this threshold constitutes a significant offense. A DUI conviction can lead to driver’s license suspension or revocation, substantial fines, and even imprisonment.

If you have been arrested and are facing DUI or DWI charges in Maryland, it is very important that you speak to our experienced criminal attorney Michael Fortini. Given the severe consequences associated with DWI and DUI convictions, establishing a relationship with an attorney as early as possible can significantly improve your chances of achieving more favorable outcomes.

Understanding the Full Impact of a Conviction

The repercussions of a criminal conviction in Maryland can be far-reaching, affecting more than just legal status. While fines and imprisonment are immediate consequences, the aftermath of a conviction often includes prolonged probation, obligatory participation in treatment programs, and community service.

The societal impact of a criminal record can severely disrupt personal relationships, job prospects, educational opportunities, suspension of driving privileges, housing, and financial stability. More severe consequences might include loss of immigration status, security clearances, or even parental custody. To mitigate these outcomes, it’s essential to consult with our knowledgeable Maryland criminal lawyer.

Schedule a Consultation with a Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer

The Law Offices of Sandra Guzman Salvado offer outstanding legal representation to individuals who have been arrested in Montgomery, Frederick, Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, and Howard counties. If you or someone you know has been arrested or is currently being interrogated by law enforcement in Maryland, it’s crucial to act swiftly. Contact our experienced Maryland criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Sandra Guzman Salvado at (301) 340-1911 for prompt legal help and guidance.