What to Expect After a Criminal Arrest in Baltimore: A Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you’re innocent, made a mistake, or are simply caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, the criminal arrest that follows is serious, confusing, and can have lasting consequences. Here’s what you need to know right now.
The Arrest
The arrest process typically begins when law enforcement detains you based on probable cause. In Baltimore, you might be arrested on the street, after a traffic stop, at your home, or even at your workplace. Officers will inform you of the charges, search you, and take you into custody. This is the time to say as little as possible. Politely request a seasoned criminal lawyer in Baltimore—do not try to explain or argue your side, as anything you say may be documented and used against you later.
Once at the precinct, you’ll go through “booking.” This means providing your basic information, getting fingerprinted, and being photographed. Your personal belongings are confiscated, and you’ll wait in a holding cell until your initial court appearance. You have the right to speak with a criminal attorney before answering questions.
The First 24 Hours
Within hours, you’ll likely be allowed a phone call—use it to reach a trusted person and urge them to get in touch with a criminal lawyer in Maryland immediately. If you have a disability, mental health issue, or require accommodations, let authorities and your legal team know right away.
Soon, you will appear before a District Court Commissioner. Here, your charges are formally read, and the commissioner decides on your release: they may set bail, release you on your own recognizance, or order you held until a judge hears your case.
The Arraignment and Preliminary Hearings
At your arraignment, you formally hear the charges against you and enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). Your criminal lawyer will have reviewed the State’s initial evidence and can begin challenging weak charges or procedural mistakes. In many Baltimore cases, a knowledgeable defense attorney can successfully argue to have certain charges reduced or even dismissed at this early stage.
If the charges are serious (like felony-level offenses), the court will schedule a preliminary hearing. Here, the judge decides whether enough evidence exists to move forward. Your criminal attorney in Baltimore can cross-examine witnesses and contest the validity of the arrest or search.
The Discovery, Negotiation, and Pre-Trial Motions
After arraignment, both sides exchange evidence (police reports, body camera footage, lab results, witness statements). Your criminal lawyer may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge improper police procedures. In Baltimore, many successful defenses hinge on scrutinizing how evidence was collected or handled.
This is also when plea negotiations may occur. Your lawyer will assess whether a plea deal is truly in your best interest or whether you’re better off going to trial. Case outcomes often depend on these negotiations—having a seasoned attorney familiar with Baltimore’s courts and prosecutors is invaluable.
Trial, Sentencing, and Your Options Afterwards
If your case proceeds to trial, you have the right to a jury. The Law Offices of Terri D. Mason prepares a comprehensive defense, examining every witness, challenging the prosecution’s claims, and presenting evidence that supports your version of events. If found not guilty, you’re released. If convicted, sentencing occurs—this could mean probation, fines, treatment programs, or jail. Maryland law allows appeals and other post-trial relief in certain circumstances, and your lawyer will discuss every possible option.
If you or someone you love has been arrested, don’t wait—secure immediate support. The Law Offices of Terri D. Mason is ready to defend your rights at every turn. Request your confidential consultation here.