Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney

Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney

A criminal charge in Maryland — whether a misdemeanor or a felony — can have consequences that follow you for life. Beyond incarceration and fines, a conviction can affect your employment, your professional licenses, your housing options, and your reputation. Adam Sean Cohen has defended individuals against criminal charges in Maryland's District and Circuit Courts for over 30 years. He approaches every case with the same goal: the best possible outcome for the client.

Maryland's Court Structure in Criminal Cases

Criminal cases in Maryland are heard in two tiers of trial courts. The District Court of Maryland handles misdemeanors and certain felonies at the trial level, with a judge presiding without a jury. A defendant convicted in District Court may appeal for a trial de novo in Circuit Court. The Circuit Court handles more serious felonies as the court of original jurisdiction, and jury trials are available. Understanding where your case will be heard — and how to navigate each court — is essential from day one.

Misdemeanors vs. Felonies in Maryland

Maryland law classifies criminal offenses as either misdemeanors or felonies, though unlike some states, Maryland does not use a uniform numbered classification system. The distinction matters because it affects the maximum possible sentence, the court in which the case is heard, and the long-term consequences of a conviction.

• Misdemeanors — Generally punishable by less than 2 years, though some Maryland misdemeanors carry penalties up to 3 years. Examples include second-degree assault, theft under $1,500, trespassing, and certain drug possession charges.
• Felonies — Carry greater penalties and are typically tried in Circuit Court. Examples include robbery, burglary, first- and second-degree assault, drug distribution, and weapons charges.

Common Criminal Charges Adam Cohen Defends

• Assault (first and second degree)
• Theft and shoplifting
• Drug possession and distribution
• Weapons charges (illegal possession, concealed carry)
• Domestic violence charges
• Disorderly conduct and disturbing the peace
• Trespassing
• Malicious destruction of property
• Fraud and white collar offenses
• Reckless endangerment
• Violations of probation

Your Constitutional Rights in a Criminal Case

The United States Constitution and the Maryland Declaration of Rights guarantee fundamental protections to every person accused of a crime. These include the right to remain silent (Fifth Amendment), the right to counsel (Sixth Amendment), protection against unreasonable searches and seizures (Fourth Amendment), and the right to confront witnesses. Adam Cohen's defense strategy begins by examining whether any of these rights were violated — because evidence obtained unlawfully can be suppressed, and cases can be dismissed or significantly weakened as a result.

The Importance of Acting Immediately

The decisions made in the hours and days after an arrest can affect the entire trajectory of a criminal case. Statements made to police without counsel present are admissible. Evidence can be lost. Witnesses' memories fade. The sooner Adam Cohen is involved, the more effectively he can protect your rights, preserve evidence favorable to your defense, and begin building your case.

Why Choose The Cohen Law Firm

Adam Sean Cohen is an AV Preeminent® rated criminal defense attorney, a Maryland Super Lawyers honoree for 10 consecutive years, and holds a 10.0 Superb Avvo rating. With over 30 years of criminal defense experience across Maryland's courts, he has the trial skills, legal knowledge, and courtroom relationships to provide a serious defense to serious charges. When you hire The Cohen Law Firm, you deal directly with Adam — not a paralegal or associate.