Maryland’s Best Criminal Defense Lawyers
                     Maryland’s Best Criminal 
Defense Lawyers
Introduction
Criminal law can be difficult to navigate for the even the most seasoned 
practitioners. For those requiring criminal law help for the first time, it can 
be absolutely overwhelming. However, choosing the perfect criminal 
defense lawyer for one’s criminal defense cases does not have to be a 
difficult process. Various criminal defense lawyers are available throughout 
Maryland, USA. Do not hesitate to call one today.
Table of contents
 Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyers
 Types of Criminal Law
 Categories of Criminal Offenses
 Cost of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
 Choosing a Criminal Defense Attorney
Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyers
Various types of criminal defense lawyers, specializing in all aspects of 
criminal law can be found throughout the state of Maryland, including 
major cities, such as Baltimore, Frederick, Hagerstown, and Annapolis.
In addition, criminal defense lawyers can be found in smaller towns and 
outlying suburbs as well.
Types of Criminal Law
There are two main types of criminal law, including felonies and 
misdemeanors. Felonies are considered the more severe type of crime and 
include murder, manslaughter, arson, burglary, battery, aggravated 
assault, tax evasion, fraud, kidnapping, blackmail, forgery, obstruction of 
justice, and treason. They are often punishable by more than a year in 
prison, or even the death penalty. In addition, felonies can result in the loss 
of one’s right to vote, find a job, own firearms, as well as obtaining 
professional licenses and permits.
Misdemeanors are considered slightly less severe and include public 
intoxication, reckless driving, disorderly conduct, vandalism, petty theft, 
simple assault, and trespassing. They often result in penalties of less than a 
year of incarceration.
In addition to these two main types of criminal law, there are also 
infractions, violations, minor/petty offenses, and regulatory offenses.
Categories of Criminal Offenses
Criminal offenses can be divided into five main categories, including 
personal crimes, property crimes, inchoate crimes, statutory crimes, and 
financial crimes.
For example, financial crimes often include money and include 
embezzlement, fraud, blackmail, tax evasion, and other crimes that may 
result in financial gain for the criminal. Statutory crimes are related to 
alcohol, drugs, traffic, or other societal issues, while inchoate crimes were 
begun but never completed or perpetrators had assisted in the commission 
of another crime. Finally, property crimes interfere with someone’s 
property, while personal crimes harm another individual.
Cost of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
The financial cost of a criminal defense lawyer depends on a variety of 
factors, including reputation, size of firm, type of case, and geographical 
location. For instance, criminal defense lawyers in smaller Maryland towns 
will charge less than those practicing in major cities, such as Baltimore.
Often rates range from $100 to $300 USD per hour, with a retainer of 
$1,500 USD for a misdemeanor and at least $5,000 USD for a felony.
Most serious felony cases can range from $2,500 to $25,000 USD, while 
less complicated misdemeanor cases can cost approximately $1,000 to 
$2,500 USD.
Some criminal defense lawyers may offer payment plans. Since most cases 
can take up to six months to complete, clients are able to pay the balance 
after paying the initial retainer over a period of time.
Choosing a Criminal Defense 
Attorney
The overwhelming process of choosing a criminal defense attorney can 
easily be simplified by following these five suggestions.
Firstly, asking friend, family members, coworkers, and acquaintances for 
recommendations is often the easiest way to find a great criminal defense 
lawyer. For individuals who are uncomfortable with this option, consider 
browsing Google reviews, personal and firm websites, as well as customer 
testimonials. In addition, other professionals, such as one’s physician, 
dentists, or other type of legal professionals often also have a list of 
lawyers to recommend, even criminal defense ones.
Secondly, browsing local bar association websites is another great way to 
find the perfect criminal defense attorney. Listings are also available 
through the phone book.
Thirdly, it is crucial to find out if the criminal defense lawyer is in good 
standing with the local bar association. Have they been subject to 
disciplinary proceedings and complaints? Do not hesitate to thoroughly 
research a lawyer’s background and reputation.
Fourthly, it is important to interview potential criminal defense attorneys to 
determine if they inspire confidence. Do they make you feel comfortable? 
What is their educational background? What are their credentials? Are they 
licensed in Maryland? Do you prefer a small, hand-on firm that will often 
offer personalized attention, or a large and busy one, with a team of 
experts working on your case?
Do not hesitate to ask for referrals and be sure to follow up with these 
individuals. 
Finally, be sure to review the retainer agreement. Do not hesitate to ask 
questions and clarify misunderstandings. Ask for the original signed copy of 
the retainer.
Finding Maryland’s best criminal defense lawyer for all of one’s criminal law 
needs is now easier than ever. Many criminal defense lawyers now offer 
free consultations and handy online information request 
Contact details
A. Shane Mattingly, Attorney at Law
Address: 41645 Church Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Phone: (301) 475-9101
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.shanemattinglyattorneyatlaw.com/