Baltimore Felony Crimes Lawyer

Choose a Former Prosecutor for Your Felony Defense in Baltimore

Felony charges are among the most serious offenses prosecuted in Maryland. While many states classify crimes by how much jail time they carry, Maryland defines felonies and misdemeanors by statute. A felony is any crime that Maryland law specifically designates as such, often involving severe penalties and long-term consequences.

At T. Wray McCurdy, P.A., we bring more than 40 years of courtroom experience to every felony case. Our team includes a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds its cases and how to challenge them effectively. We use this insight to help clients make informed decisions and protect their rights at every stage of the process.

A felony conviction can result in years behind bars, high fines, and a permanent criminal record that limits job opportunities, housing, and civil rights. Having a seasoned defense attorney by your side can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case.

If you’re accused of a felony in Baltimore, contact T. Wray McCurdy, P.A. today at (410) 834-8466 to schedule a confidential consultation.

Common Felony Charges Our Defense Attorney Handles

Felony charges in Maryland cover a wide range of serious offenses, each carrying its own set of penalties and long-term consequences. 

Common examples include:

• Murder (first or second degree, or felony murder) – Punishable by life imprisonment, with or without the possibility of parole.
• Manslaughter – A felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
• Vehicular manslaughter – Punishable by up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000, or both.
• Sex crimes – Including rape, sexual assault, or child sexual abuse, carrying penalties ranging from 25 years to life in prison.
• Carjacking – Up to 30 years in prison.
• Theft, burglary, and robbery – Penalties vary by offense. Robbery carries up to 15 years in prison (§ 3-402). First-degree burglary is punishable by up to 20 years (§ 6-202), while theft penalties depend on the property’s value under § 7-104, with harsher punishment for higher-value amounts.
• Aggravated assault – Up to 25 years in prison.
• Drug distribution or manufacturing – Penalties depend on the drug type and quantity, often involving lengthy sentences.
• Arson – Up to 30 years in prison.
• Kidnapping – Up to 30 years in prison.
• Mayhem and other violent crimes – Penalties vary by statute.

Baltimore law enforcement agencies dedicate significant resources to investigating and prosecuting these offenses. Felony arrests are typically handled by the Baltimore City Circuit Court or Baltimore County Circuit Court, depending on where the alleged crime occurred. Our team walks clients through each step, from understanding the specific statute cited to assessing potential penalties and defenses under Maryland law.

Felony convictions can also create collateral consequences, such as immigration issues for noncitizens, loss of firearm rights, or disqualification from certain professional licenses. Even after serving a sentence, a felony record can appear on background checks by employers, landlords, and state licensing boards, limiting future opportunities in education, real estate, or healthcare.

How Do Felony Cases Move Through the Baltimore Court System?

Felony cases in Baltimore typically begin with an arrest and booking, followed by an initial appearance or bail hearing before a judge or commissioner.

• Preliminary hearing – Determines if sufficient evidence exists for trial.
• Indictment or information filing – Serious charges may be presented to a grand jury.
• Pre-trial motions – Your defense attorney can challenge evidence, request dismissals, or negotiate with prosecutors.
• Trial – Conducted before a judge or jury, depending on the case.
• Sentencing – If convicted, penalties follow Maryland’s statutory guidelines.

Judges consider factors such as criminal history, community ties, and employment when determining bail and sentencing. Because Baltimore’s courts are known for their busy dockets and localized procedures, familiarity with these systems helps prevent delays and unnecessary complications.

We guide clients through every stage, reviewing evidence, preparing filings, managing court appearances, and maintaining steady communication. Our understanding of court structure, from central booking to post-trial proceedings, allows us to focus on both immediate defense strategy and long-term impact.

Building a Strategic Defense for Felony Charges

Every felony case requires a defense tailored to the facts, the evidence, and the specific court handling the matter. We start by reviewing police reports, body camera footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence to identify weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s claims.

Our defense strategy often involves:

• Challenging unlawful searches or seizures under the Fourth Amendment and Article 26 of the Maryland Declaration of Rights
• Investigating procedural errors or due process violations
• Seeking suppression of unreliable evidence or coerced statements
• Exploring plea negotiations or diversion programs when appropriate
• Preparing thoroughly for trial with clear, evidence-based arguments

Our experience as former prosecutors gives us perspective on how the state builds its case, and how to dismantle it. We also track ongoing changes in Maryland’s criminal laws, particularly regarding sentencing reform, digital evidence, and controlled substance statutes. This allows us to stay current and responsive in how we defend clients.

Get Skilled Legal Help to Fight Your Charges

At T. Wray McCurdy, P.A., we’ve spent decades handling serious criminal cases before Baltimore judges and prosecutors. Our firm holds an AV-Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting our longstanding reputation for legal ability and ethical standards.

We’ve represented clients in felony trials across downtown Baltimore and Baltimore County, offering clear communication and practical guidance through every hearing, filing, and decision. Our approach is direct, honest, and rooted in preparation, never overpromising, always working to achieve the strongest possible defense based on the facts and law.

Your rights, reputation, and future are worth protecting.

Let us stand with you. Call (410) 834-8466 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

FAQs

How long does a felony case usually take in Baltimore?

The duration depends on the charge, court schedule, and the complexity of the evidence. Most felony cases take several months or longer to resolve due to preliminary hearings, discovery, and pre-trial motions.

Can a felony be expunged in Maryland?

Some felony convictions may be eligible for expungement, depending on the statute and the time since the case closed. However, many violent and sexual offenses are not eligible. You can review eligibility on the Maryland Judiciary Expungement Guide or consult a defense attorney for guidance.

What should I do immediately after being charged with a felony?

Stay calm and contact a defense attorney as soon as possible. Avoid discussing your case with police or anyone else without counsel present. Attend all court appearances and follow your attorney’s advice closely to preserve your defense options.