Think about it this way: if you were injured in an accident would you consider treating yourself or would you seek outside medical attention? If your car was damaged, would you fix the car yourself? Do you have an economics degree to precisely argue with an insurance company about missed wages and other pecuniary losses? Are you an expert in reconstructing an accident scene? Are you a claims adjuster that can determine if an an insurance company is truthful when they, “that’s the best we can offer to you”?

WHY YOU HIRE A PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER

Unless you can answer yes to all those questions, you may need to consider retaining a personal injury attorney to ensure that all necessary steps occur for you to receive a fair and equitable settlement or recovery. A lawyer serves as not just your legal representative, but also as a coordinator for all the experts and specialists that are necessary to make you whole as well as a processor of all the information, paperwork, communications, evaluations, reports, and bills in your claim.

A lawyer will determine all the legal doctrines and statutes that may affect your recovery and the strength of your case. If the cases cannot be settled, the attorney will litigate on your behalf in the court of proper jurisdiction and secure the witnesses and evidence to present your case to the fullest.


HOW WILL YOUR PERSONAL INJURIES GET PAID?

A personal injury lawyer generally handles your case on a contingency basis, meaning he/she will only collect a fee from the recovery. Therefore, the attorney has a natural incentive to seek the greatest recovery and explore every legal avenue to maximize and protect your claim. Your lawyer can only earn more if you in turn receive more of a recovery as well.

If a case is not on a contingency, then it would be on an hourly basis, which would mean that you will be paying for legal services at a rate of hundreds of dollars an hour. You would also need to pay money upfront called a retainer, providing your attorney with funds that he can have his bill paid from.


Representation Agreement for Your Personal Injury Lawyer

When you hire an attorney to handle your personal injury case, the lawyer should provide you with an agreement that will describe what the percentage of the settlement claim will go to fees. Typically, the attorney will receive one third of the settlement with the percentage increasing if the case goes to court. The fees paid to the attorney do not include the bills and costs. They are usually paid separately out of the recovery and are included in the amount determined as the settlement. 

When you sign an agreement for an attorney to represent you, you are entering contract. Make sure you understand the terms before giving your signature. Your lawyer wants and needs you to trust their judgement, so they should be willing to answer any questions you may have.


MEDICAL AND INFORMATION RELEASES IN YOUR PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM

Your personal injury will also likely have you sign releases that will allow the collection of information from third parties such as doctors. They will also send out letters to let people and firms know they are handling your case. If you have or will incur future medical bills they can communicate the status to the medical providers to explain the status of your case, and when to expect payment.


VALUE OF YOUR PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM

To determine the value of your claim depends on many factors, but it first means looking at all the different damages that you could entitled to. The two biggest categories are compensatory and non-compensatory damages.


Compensatory Damages

Compensatory damages mean you are seeking to be repaid for the things you lost because of what the other party did to you. The first type are called “ special” because everyone will have different amounts depending on the circumstances. These include:

  • loss of earnings
  • loss of future earnings
  • medical bills
  • cost of future medical care
  • household expenses, and
  • costs associated with cancelled trips or altered plans
  • property damages or loss

“General” compensatory damages compensate an injured individual for losses incurred in an injury case that don’t come with a price tag. They are called general damages because all individuals in an accident usually will be able to claim them. The most common types of general damages are:

  • pain and suffering
  • mental anguish, and
  • loss of consortium or companionship (this means the loss of intimate relations while someone is recovering from an injury).


Punitive Damages

There are also punitive damages in some situation. These are non-compensatory because they are not associated with a an attempt compensate for any loss suffered. Most personal injury are based on the negligence. That means someone caused the accident or injury by not using proper care, not because they intended to harm someone. If intent to harm can be shown, damages could be awarded not related to your calculated losses, but to send a message to the at fault party how wrong they were to discourage them or anyone else from doing what they did. To recover punitive damages like these, your case would almost certainly have to go to trial, not included from an agreed settlement.


WRONGFUL DEATH OR FATAL ACCIDENT CLAIMS

There may be times when you may want to retain a personal injury for claims that do not belong directly to you. If you are a parent or the guardian for a child or other individuals who are not able to legally make their own decisions. In these situations, a lawsuit will be entitled to “for the benefit of” or “in the name of”. You will need to consult with the attorney to specifically determine how such claims will be handled and the restrictions that may be placed on settlements or verdicts.

There are also wrongful death claims, where families seek to recover from the loss of life of a family member caused by an accident or intentional act. In this situation, because there are possibly multiple people with the claim, consult with your attorney to determine the amount of damages and who would be entitled to participate in a recovery.


CONTRIBUTORY NEGLIGENCE AND HOW IT CAN AFFECT YOUR CLAIMS

What happens if it can be shown that you contributed to the accident? In Maryland, this means that if it can be shown that you were even only 1% responsible for the accident, you may not be entitled to recover any damages. Some other states have this doctrine, but most states do not. For this reason alone, it may be important to involve an attorney to determine the value of your case and any defenses that can be raised to try and defeat it.

While we use doctors to physically recover from being hurt, your lawyer will also likely need your medical professionals to prepare a medical report to demonstrate in writing the extent of your injuries and whether they are permanent. Other expert’s reports may be needed for your case, such as psychologists, accident reconstruction professionals, and sometime economic experts to determine loss of value.


SETTLING YOUR PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM IN MARYLAND

How quickly will your case settle may depend on the amount of loss sustained by you and how quickly you recover from physical injuries. Until all information is gathered and you have reached maximum recovery, it may be premature to settle. Very often, an insurance company may push to settle quickly with you because they don’t want to pay out a larger claim in the future. If your case is “cut and dry” it may make sense to settle right away, but it is not often that everything seems to be the way it appears at first in a personal injury case.

In most cases, the damages won’t be paid personally by an individual. Instead, it is the insurance company of the at fault party that will likely cover the cost of the damages up to the limit of the policy. An insurance company makes more money by limiting the amount of money it pays out, so their goals are different from the victim of an accident.


NEGOTIATING WITH THE INSURANCE COMPANIES

Your attorney will likely be negotiating with the insurance company directly until the case goes to trial. The attorney will present the evidence gathered and make a demand based on what you and the lawyer determine to be the value of your case. At that point the insurance company will hire an attorney to represent their insured in court. Because there is always risk as to what will happen at a trial, each side maybe willing to compromise to reach what is considered a fair settlement for everything rather than face all or nothing.

As you can see, the work of a personal injury attorney involves many elements: fact gathering, analysis, follow up, reviewing, legal research, maintaining contacts with multiple parties with multiple interests. At all times though, the mission remains the same, serving and representing the interests of the client so their rights and interests are protected and doing their best to insure recovery on their client’s behalf is maximized.


More than other age groups, teenage drivers are at significant risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accidents. Unfortunately, a large number of teenagers are also eager to drive which increases the rate at which these accidents occur.

While it is not always possible to prevent accidents, there are some important steps that teenage drivers can follow to reduce the risks of being harmed while driving. This article will review some of the most important safety steps that teenage drivers should stick to while driving.

1. BUCKLE UP WHENEVER RIDING

One of the best ways to decrease the chances of being involved in a serious accident is to make sure that you wear a seatbelt whenever traveling in a vehicle.

If you are teaching your child how to drive, it is even more important that you wear a seatbelt because children often repeat the behavior of parents.

Each year, seat belts failed to protect a large number of drivers and passenger from being seriously injured in accidents.

2. DO NOT DRIVER WHILE DISTRACTED

Some of the most common distractions for motor vehicle drivers include texting, talking on the phone, and checking emails. It is important that motor vehicle drivers do not drive while distracted in any way because this greatly increases a person’s chances of being involved in an accident.


3. IMPLEMENT A ZERO TOLERANCE RULE FOR DRIVING

There is not a safe alcohol limit for teenage drivers. Instead, teenagers should never attempt to operate a vehicle even if they have had a small amount of alcohol.

As a result, parents should make sure to implement a zero tolerance policy regarding teenagers and drivings. It is also critical that parents not commit this type of behavior themselves because this can provide a message to teenagers that it is okay to act in this type of a negligent manner.

4. MAKE SURE TO NOT SPEED

Each year, a large number of accidents occur because drivers speed while operating their vehicle. This increases the chance that a driver will lose control of their motor vehicle. As a result, it is important that all drivers follow the post speed limits.


5. REDUCE THE NUMBER OF DRIVERS IN YOUR TEEN’S CAR

A large number of passengers in a vehicle can act as a significant distraction, which can then lead to an accident. As a result, it is critical that teenagers never operate their vehicle with too many passengers.

6. TEACH TEENAGE DRIVERS TO SPEAK UP IF THEY FEEL UNSAFE

Because driving a car is a new and challenging experience, many teenagers feel unsafe while operating a vehicle. It is critical that parents teach children to speak up if they feel unsafe in any way. It is also helpful if teenage drivers create a plan in case they end up in a situation where they do not feel safe.


7. TEENAGE DRIVERS MUST HAVE THE NECESSARY EXPERIENCE BEFORE NIGHT DRIVING

Parents should make sure that their teenager has a sufficient number of opportunities to practice driving at night. A large number of motor vehicle accidents occuring during the night time because drivers are not prepared to deal with these conditions.

CONTACT A SEASONED CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY TODAY

Many teenage drivers are able to learn how to operate a vehicle without becoming involved in accident. Some teens, however, are seriously harmed that involved in accidents.

When these accidents occur, it can prove particularly helpful to have the assistance of a seasoned attorney like the legal counsel at the Law Office of Randolph Rice, who will fight to make sure that you obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact our law office today for assistance with your case.

The field sobriety tests are tool law enforcement uses to collect evidence against a suspected drunk driver. They are a standardized series of tests and procedures that are used to collect clues about a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle.

The standardized field sobriety test (SFFT) or also called the field sobriety tests (FST) are performed to establish probable cause to arrest a driver suspected of driving under the influence or driving while impaired.

ARE YOU REQUIRED TO TAKE THE FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS?

Drivers are not required to take the field sobriety test and taking them will only provide additional evidence at the trial date. There are no administrative penalty for refusing to take the roadside tests.

HOW DO THE FIELD SOBRIETY TEST GET USED?

When a police officer or law enforcement detects or sees a driver they suspect is impaired, that officer will typically elect to ask the driver to perform the field sobriety test. In Maryland, there is no penalty or adverse consequences for refusing to take the field sobriety tests.

WHAT REALLY HAPPENS IF I DON’T TAKE THE FIELD SOBRIETY TEST?

If a driver refuses to submit to the field sobriety test then the police officer must establish probable cause from other clues to make an arrest for drunk driving (DUI or DWI).

WHAT ARE OTHER POSSIBLE CLUES A POLICE OFFICER COULD USE TO ARREST FOR DRUNK DRIVING?

From the moment the police officer observes the vehicle he or she is collecting clues or evidence that may be used at the subsequent trial date. Some of the clues that a police officer may observe and use are speeding, negligent driving, reckless driving, swerving, crossing over the center line, crossing over the dotted line multiple times or any other abnormal driving habits or behavior.

While not every driver that exhibits these signs is impaired or under the influence of alcohol, if the officer detects the odor of alcohol upon the stop, it will be used against the driver in court.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A POLICE OFFICER STOPS A DRIVER SUSPECTED OF DRUNK DRIVING?

After the police officer conducts a lawful traffic stop, the officer will approach the vehicle. If the driver rolls down their window then the police officer will be able to detect any odors emanating from within the vehicle. Police officers are trained to detect certain smells such as alcohol or the odor of marijuana.

If the officer detects the odor of alcohol and marijuana then they will likely proceed with a further investigation to determine if the driver is impaired.

Typically, the officer will now ask for the driver’s license and registration. The police officer is observing the driver to determine if their motor skills are impaired. The officer will watch for a driver that has trouble finding their license or cannot ascertain the registration while the officer can clearly see the driver passing over it in the glove box.

The officer is also making audio observations as it relates to the speech pattern.
Does my speech patterns affect an officer’s determination of impairment?

Police officers are looking and listening for drivers that may have slowed or slurred speech. If a driver exhibits slurred speech while speaking with the officer, this is another clue that he will note in his report and use as evidence to establish probable cause to make an arrest.

The officer is also going to look at the driver’s physical attributes.
Can the officer tell if I’m drunk based on other factors?

Police officers will also make notes as to the drivers facial expressions and their skin conditions. If the driver’s eyes are glassy or watery, this may be a clue that the officer may use to establish a reason for an arrest.

The officer will also look to the drivers skin to see if the driver is flush face which is often times and indication of the effects of alcohol.


The officer will ask you to step out of the vehicle

A law enforcement officer must establish probable cause to request that an individual submit to the field sobriety test. If the police officer lacks probable cause, this may be grounds to challenge the stop and subsequent request to perform the tests.

The officer will ask an individual to step out of the vehicle and this may provide additional Clues to the police officer as to the driver’s level of impairment.

If the driver has trouble taking off their seatbelt or stumbles, falls or staggers while exiting the vehicle, the police officer will certainly know this in the report. The police will also notice if the driver uses the side of the vehicle for balance or stability while approaching the rear of the vehicle to perform the tests.

WHERE ARE FIELD SOBRIETY TEST PERFORMED?

Most feels right tests are performed on the roadside for the location of the traffic stop. In extreme situations, when the weather is not permitting, such as is raining too hard, police officer may give the driver an option to perform the test at a police station or under a local covered area. It has been seen in the past that police officers will allow drivers to perform the field sobriety test under the canopy of a bank drive-thru or are there covered business location.

WHAT ARE THE FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS?

The field sobriety test typically consists of three separate tests.

HGN FIELD TEST

The first test is called the horizontal gaze nystagmus. Police officer will direct the individual to follow their finger, a pin tip or a light while standing still. The driver is required to only move their eyes and not their head during the test.

WALK AND TURN TEST

The second test is typically performed is called the walk in turn test. Walk in turn test consist of the driver standing heel to toe, taking 9 steps heel to toe in a straight line, typically an imaginary line. Making a turn upon the completion of the first nine steps, and then returning down the same imaginary line making the same 9 steps.

A police officer is looking for signs of impairment by the driver using their arms for balance or falling off the line or as well as not touching heel-to-toe.

ONE LEG STAND TEST

The final test that the police officer will typically offer is called the one leg stand. The police officer will direct the driver to stand with her feet together, hands by their side and to raise one foot 6 inches off the ground. The driver is been required the count to 30, 1001, 1002 and so on until they reach 30 seconds.

The law enforcement officer is looking for clues such as the driver raising their arms for balance, swing, or swaggering.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I PASS THE FIELD SOBRIETY TEST?

If a police officer believes or they lack probable cause to make an arrest based on the field sobriety test then the officer will often times offer a preliminary breath test. Preliminary breath tests are not admissible in Maryland, and are used to determine if an individual is actually impaired if their tests were favorable.

Typically, if a police officer is requesting an individual to take the field sobriety test, then they’ve already made up their mind and suspect that the driver is impaired under the influence of drugs or another substance.

WHY YOU SHOULDN’T TAKE THE FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS

By taking the field sobriety test you’re only giving the police and the state more evidence to use against you in court. Since refusing a tests do not penalize you, then there is no reason to take them.

Individuals that take the field sobriety test are risking but the state will have additional evidence and information to use against them at trial. Even if an individual refuses to take the test, the state will have less evidence and facts to use at trial.

DUI LAWYERS IN MARYLAND

If you’ve been arrested for driving while impaired or driving under the influence and you took the field sobriety test or you refuse to take this feels right test, contact are Maryland DUI lawyer Randolph rice today to discuss your options and possible defenses at trial.


The country is becoming more lenient when it comes to the use of marijuana. Recently, many states have chosen to legalize medical marijuana, including Maryland, and others have legalized it recreationally. Our nation’s capital allows recreational marijuana and even plays host to festivals for smokers on 4/20, which many Maryland citizens travel to attend.


WITH THE RECENT CHANGES AND UPCOMING 4/20 CELEBRATIONS, FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO AVOID ARREST:

Avoid Carrying Large Quantities of Marijuana
Don’t Drive While Under the Influence of Drugs
Don’t Sell Marijuana
Don’t Smoke Marijuana in Public
Avoid Possessing Multiple Marijuana Plants

DON’T CARRY LARGE QUANTITIES OF WEED

The laws in Maryland have recently changed to be far more lenient on marijuana. The use and possession of marijuana was decriminalized, making it a civil offense (no possibility of jail time) to carry under 10 grams. If found in possession of 10 grams or less, the penalty is at most a $100 fine with no chance of incarceration.

If found carrying between 10 grams and 50 pounds the penalty is a misdemeanor and is punishable by at most 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. However, if there is sufficient quantity, an individual will be charged with possession with intent to distribute.

Paraphernalia is a separate charge but is still lenient. If found in possession of drug paraphernalia, this typically would be a device used to ingest the drug, there is only a financial penalty. This means there is no jail time for the possession of paraphernalia.

There is also no chance of incarceration when selling or advertising distribution of drug paraphernalia the first time, but you can be fined up to $500. Subsequent violations can be punishable by up to 2 years in jail and a $2,000 fine.

If looking to avoid incarceration, you would be best off avoiding carrying more than 10 g of marijuana and solicitation of drug paraphernalia. Additionally, after the first offense it would be wise to be careful not to repeat as the penalties grow substantially with each offense.



DON’T SELL DRUGS

The misdemeanor laws only benefit persons in possession, not those with the intention of selling or otherwise distributing the drug. Thus, in an attempt to avoid being arrested, do not sell any form of marijuana.

The penalties for being caught selling marijuana can be severe. If you get caught with less than 50 pounds of marijuana in an attempt to sell it is a felony with up to 5 years jail time and a fine of up to $15,000.

However, the penalties grow exponentially if you are caught with more than 50 pounds in your possession. It is a felony charge with no less than 5 years jail time and a fine of up to $100,000.

Possession of Drugs Near a School

In addition, if the incident occurs within 1,000 feet of any property owned by an elementary or secondary school the felony charge is punishable by up to 20 years in jail and a fine of up to $20,000, in addition to the charges above.

These charges can be costly, not only because of the fines associated with them and by the lost wages of time spent in jail, but also by the difficulty in finding a job moving forward. Felony charges can have severe impacts on career opportunities, so it is best to refrain from selling.



DON’T DRIVE WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OR IMPAIRED BY MARIJUANA

If you do choose to attend the D.C. celebrations, be sure to have a designated driver. While it is less common than with alcohol, officers can choose to administer a drug test on a suspected impaired driver.

Additionally, officers are able to forego a formal drug testing if they find the substance in the car with an impaired driver.

Driving While Impaired by Drugs in Maryland

The penalties for driving under the influence of a controlled substance in Maryland, can include up to a year in jail and a fine ranging from $500-$1000.

Driving while under the influence of marijuana puts you at risk of losing your license for up to 45 days, as well. You also could be required to take a drug/alcohol education program.

The penalties are even more severe if there is a minor in the vehicle, with fines going up to $2,000.

Additionally, travelling from Washington, D.C. to Maryland is considered crossing state lines and thus would become a trafficking charge, as well. Trafficking charges only apply to those carrying 5kg or more. Trafficking is a felony with up to 25 years jail time and up to $50,000 in fines. If you are carrying under 5kg of marijuana the charges could only include driving under the influence and possession.

If you get caught driving while in the possession of and under the influence of marijuana from D.C. to Maryland the charges would include the possession charge, driving while under the influence, and trafficking.

If planning to attend these celebrations as a Maryland resident, it is best to make sure that you have no marijuana in your possession when returning home to avoid these hefty charges.



DON’T MARIHUANA SMOKE IN PUBLIC

Ingesting marijuana is governed by laws similar to public intoxication laws. Being found ingesting marijuana in a public space carries a civil fine of up to $500 with increased penalties for repeat offenders.

The additional $500 charge would be on top of general possession charges. It is simple to avoid so it would be in your best interest to refrain from ingesting the drug in the general public.

If this space is near to a secondary or an elementary school it becomes a felony charge with up to 20 years in jail and up to $20,000 in fines.



AVOID POSSESSING MARIJUANA PLANTS

The new, more lenient, Maryland laws for the possession of marijuana apply only to the most common form of marijuana and concentrates.

They only somewhat apply to plants. Therefore, it is best to avoid possessing marijuana in this form.

The laws in Maryland for different forms of marijuana are complex and often vague.

If it is able to be determined that the plant was for personal use only than it is charged the same as having the common form of marijuana, however, if it is determined that the plants where grown with the intent to distribute than the charges would be the same as being caught selling.

Typically, this means that 4 plants or less would be charged with minor fines and penalties. More than 4 plants could mean years of jail time and significant fines. These penalties grow exponentially for repeat offenders.

So, if you’re planning to attend this year’s 4/20 festivities in our nation’s capital: stay safe, don’t drive, don’t sell, and don’t travel with marijuana back into Maryland.


The Howard County District Court’s jurisdiction includes:

  • Landlord-tenant cases, 
  • Replevin actions, 
  • Motor vehicle violations, 
  • Misdemeanors, and 
  • Certain felony crimes. 

The Howard County District Court building houses 5 courtrooms. Criminal and Civil matters are heard throughout the week.

LOCATION/ADDRESS FOR THE HOWARD COUNTY DISTRICT COURT

District Court/Multi-Service Center (Click for Google Map to court)
3451 Court House Drive
Ellicott City, Maryland 21043



PHONE NUMBERS FOR THE HOWARD COUNTY DISTRICT COURT

Phone: (410) 480-7700
Toll Free Phone: 1-800-944-8107
Fax Number: (410) 480-7701
TTY: (410) 480-7702



HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

The Howard County District Court is closed on legal holidays and on weather delays/closings.

PARKING

The Howard County District Court has free parking adjacent to the court house. There is the main parking lot and an overflow parking lot.



JUDGES OF THE HOWARD COUNTY DISTRICT COURT

There are 5 active Judges that sit in the Howard County District Court and hear cases. The Judges of the Howard County District Court (as of March 2018) are:

  • Pamila J. Brown, District Administrative Judge until 2022 
  • Wayne A. Brooks, Associate Judge until 2024 
  • Lisa L. Broten, Associate Judge until 2026 
  • Mary C. Reese, Associate Judge until 2026 
  • Ricardo D. Zwaig, Associate Judge until 2020 

District Court Judges in Maryland serve are term of 10 years from the date of their appointment by the Governor.



OTHER GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES IN THE HOWARD COUNTY DISTRICT COURT

In addition to the District Court, there are other government offices and agencies located in the Howard County District Court, they include:

Howard County District Court Clerk
Adult DUI and Drug Court
Commissioner’s office

CAN I TAKE MY CELL PHONE INTO THE HOWARD COUNTY DISTRICT COURT?

Electronic devices such as cell phones, cameras, personal computers, and other such devices may be brought into the Howard County District Court, but may be used only in accordance with the Rule and the court’s orders.

For more information on cell phone usage in the Howard County District Court, read Cell Phone Usage in Maryland Courts notice from January 1, 2011.

DIRECTION TO THE HOWARD COUNTY DISTRICT COURT



FROM BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

Take Light Street and E Conway Street to I-395 S, Head west on E Fayette St toward N Calvert St, Continue straight to stay on E Fayette St, Turn left onto St Paul St, Continue onto Light St, Use the right 2 lanes to turn right onto E Conway St, Take I-95 S and I-695 N to US-40 W/Baltimore National Pike in Catonsville.

Take exit 15B from I-695 N, Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto I-395 S, Use the left 2 lanes to merge onto I-95 Stoward Washington, Use the right 2 lanes to take exit 49B for I-695 W toward I-70 W/Towson, Merge onto I-695 N, Take exit 15B to merge onto US-40 W/Baltimore National Pike toward Ellicott City.

Continue on US-40 W/Baltimore National Pike. Drive to Court House Dr in Ellicott City, Merge onto US-40 W/Baltimore National Pike, Pass by Taco Bell, Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto Rogers Ave, Continue onto Court House Dr, Arrive at the Howard County District Court/Multi-Service Center 3451 Court House Dr, Ellicott City, MD 21043.



FROM WASHINGTON, D.C.

 Get on I-495 E in Silver Spring from 15th St NW and 16th St NW, Head southeast, Merge onto Massachusetts Ave NW, Turn right onto 15th St NW, Keep left to stay on 15th St NW, Merge onto 16th St NW, You will enter Maryland, At the traffic circle, take the 3rd exit onto 16th St, Use any lane to turn left onto Georgia Ave.

Turn right onto the I-495 E/Beltway ramp to Baltimore, Continue on I-495 E. Take I-95 N and US-29 N to US-40 E/Baltimore National Pike in Ellicott City. Take exit 24A from US-29 N, Merge onto I-495 E, Use the right 2 lanes to take exit 27 for I-95 N toward Baltimore, Continue onto I-95 N.

Take exit 38B to merge onto MD-32 W toward Columbia ,Take exit 16A to merge onto US-29 N toward Columbia/Town Center, Use the right 2 lanes to take exit 24A to merge onto US-40 E/Baltimore National Pike, Take Rogers Ave to Court House Dr, Merge onto US-40 E/Baltimore National Pike.

Turn right onto Rogers Ave, Continue onto Court House Dr, Arrive at the Howard County District Court/Multi-Service Center 3451 Court House Dr, Ellicott City, MD 21043.

WILL THE HOWARD COUNTY JUDGES HEAR MY CIVIL CASE?

In civil cases, the Howard County District Court has exclusive jurisdiction in claims of $5,000 or less, and concurrent jurisdiction with the Howard County Circuit Court in claims for amounts above $5,000 but less than $30,000.



CRIMINAL CASES IN THE HOWARD COUNTY DISTRICT COURT

In criminal cases, the Howard County District Court has concurrent jurisdiction with the Howard County Circuit Courts in cases in which the penalty may be confinement for 3 years or more or a fine of $2,500 or more and certain felonies.

DOES THE DISTRICT COURT HEAR JURY TRIALS?

 The Howard County District Court does not conduct jury trials.

HOWARD COUNTY LAWYERS

 Do you have a civil or criminal matter in the Howard County? Contact the Law Offices of Randolph Rice today to schedule a free consultation. Their lawyers represent clients in the following areas:

  • Criminal law 
  • Personal injury 
  • DUI/DWI defense 
  • Traffic tickets and violations 
  • Family law 
  • Wills & Estates 





I recently lost a dear friend and the circumstances of his death lead everyone to believe that he died because of a controlled dangerous substance overdose. The numbers don’t look good for curbing the overdose deaths. According to the CDC, there were more than 63,600 drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2016, the problem seems to be getting worse.

This begs the questions: Will Drug Dealers Face Criminal Charges for Overdoses? What that means is, someone sold or gave an addict drugs that ultimately led to their death. In the days after his death, I’ve been asking a lot of questions to myself about how this can happen.

As a criminal defense lawyer it made me wonder and debate if the individual that sold or gave my friend the drugs would face criminal charges for his overdose?

While this is not a common scenario where one individual is charged for someone else’s death because they consumed an illegal drug that was sold to them. It is not unusual, as recently seen in Anne Arundel County, Maryland as well as Montgomery County, Md.

So I set out to start this debate with myself and with you to figure out if drug dealers should and will face criminal charges for the overdoses they cause.

How Drug Dealers Work

Here’s how this typically works:

  • The drug dealer has drugs. 
  • The user needs drugs or wants drugs and contacts a drug dealer to supply those drugs to the user. 
  • The drug dealer then gives or sells the drugs to the user. 
  • The user then takes the drugs and subsequently dies from an overdose. 

Fentanyl and It’s Dangers

There has been a lot of new stories recently about the drug Fentanyl and it’s infusion into various drugs such as cocaine or heroin.

Fentanyl is used as an additive that many drug dealers or illegal drug manufacturers are combining with the common street drugs to increase the “high” for the user.

Now, I am no way an expert on the molecular breakdown of drugs and controlled dangerous substances. But my understanding, from talking to recovery specialists and police officers is the Fentanyl and other additives increase the “high” for the user

Why Use Fentanyl

I’ve always been told that the first time an individual uses an illegal drug, it’s the best “high” they will ever have. Therefore, every time they take drugs after the first time is there an attempt to feel the same way they felt the first time.

The drug dealers and illegal drug manufacturers or trying to increase the subsequent highs that drug users have and therefore boost their profits and the demand for their product.

The problem with this scenario is, the additive such as Fentanyl are so dangerous, even in small amounts that they kill by increasing heart rates and causing heart attacks.

Some experts suggest that fentanyl, the size of a grain of salt, can kill someone who has not built up a tolerance to the substance.

No Chemistry Sets Used by Drug Dealers

The drug dealers and illegal drug manufacturers are not using exact science when they add Fentanyl to the cocaine or heroin. Therefore, if they sell 20 different bags of drugs, 19 of the bags may have no fentanyl in it and the one remaining bag may have an excessive amount of Fentanyl.

Where does that leave us in terms of drug dealers facing criminal charges? Well, as I previously mentioned, there are two jurisdictions at this time in Maryland, that we know, have charged drug dealers with the death of a user.

In the an Arundel County criminal case, the drug dealer was charged with various controlled dangerous substance distribution charges, which is not unusual. But, in addition, the drug dealer was charged with reckless endangerment.

Reckless Endangerment Charges for Drug Dealer

Reckless endangerment prohibits a person from acting recklessly in conduct that creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another person.

If an individual is convicted of reckless endangerment, they’re facing a misdemeanor conviction and could face up to five years in jail and a $5,000 fine.

The question that will come to the jury will be, can a drug dealer be held responsible for selling drugs that are laced with a harmful substance that ultimately led to the death of another person?

A prosecutor must prove three things:
  • that the drug dealer engaged in a conduct that created a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another person, 
  • that a reasonable person would not have engaged in that conduct, you certainly believe that reasonable people would not be drug dealers, and 
  • that the drug dealer acted recklessly. 

I certainly think that most prosecutors would be able to prove that it was the drug dealer’s active conduct that created a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another.

As shown by recent news articles and stories and overdose deaths, and I’m sure common knowledge within the drug dealing community, people that use drugs often overdose and die.

There’s no doubt that a reasonable person would not engage in drug dealing. Yet the final condition (that the drug dealer acted recklessly) will be somewhat of a question for a jury to decide.

I have no doubt but the drug dealer will argue that he had no idea that the drugs were laced or contained fentanyl or another dangerous substance. Or the drug dealer May argue that he is sold the substance before and never had a user overdose.

Involuntary Manslaughter Charges for Drug Dealer in Overdose Death

In the Montgomery County, Maryland case, the State’s Attorney decided to charge the drug dealer with involuntary manslaughter.

Involuntary manslaughter is classified as a felony in Maryland and if an individual is convicted they could face up to 10 years in jail for their crime.

For involuntary manslaughter charges in Maryland the state would have to prove a number of factors:

  • that the conduct of the drug dealer cause the death of the drug user and 
  • that the drug dealer, conscious of the risk to the user, knowingly and recklessly disregarded the likelihood that the drug dealers actions would cause the death of the drug user. 

Again, the the drug dealer is certainly argue that they had no idea that the drugs would kill the drug user.

However, it’s going to be very hard for a jury do not think or believe that a drug dealer do the consequences of his actions by selling the drugs.

Drug Addiction and Tragedy

It is a tragedy when an individual is addicted to drugs. Oftentimes, there is an underlying mental health component that will affect their desire or want to continue using drugs.

The general public certainly understands that drug use is a serious epidemic in America. The recent opioid explosion that is called so many deaths has taken center stage with law enforcement and politicians who want to prevent any future loss of life.

It may be a deterrent two drug dealers if they face additional criminal penalties for their actions and the deaths they cause.

Let us Know What You Think

We want to know what you think, leave us a comment on our Facebook page and let started discussion about what should happen to drug dealers if the individuals they sell drugs to die.
                                    How You Can Avoid Drowsy Driving Accidents

                                     

Drowsy driving is a significant problem in the United States. An estimated 1 in 25 adult drivers reports falling asleep while driving in the previous 30 days and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving is responsible for approximately 72,000 crashes annually.

How You Can Avoid Drowsy Driving Accidents

Those crashes are responsible for about 44,000 injuries and 800 deaths, and it’s believed these numbers are underestimated.

Everyone is at risk of drowsy driving, but some drivers have a higher risk factor than others:

  • Drivers who use medications that make them sleepy 
  • Shift workers who work long shifts or overnights 
  • Commercial drivers, such as truck drivers, tow truck drivers, and bus drivers. 
  • Drivers who don’t get enough sleep 
  • Drivers with untreated sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia 

Individuals who snore, or usually sleep for six hours or less per day are most likely to report falling asleep while driving.

The Warning Signs of Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving isn’t a sudden phenomenon, and it can easily creep up on you. You might feel alert when you take the wheel, but your energy and alertness can quickly deteriorate as you’re driving.

Unfortunately, that doesn’t make it any less dangerous, and sleepiness can make you feel as impaired as a drunk driver. Your concentration, awareness, and alertness suffer, so you’re not able to drive safely.

It’s important to recognize the signs of drowsy driving so you can pull over and take action rather than continuing to drive when you’re too sleepy to do so. Common drowsy driving signs include:

  • Drifting from your lane 
  • Hitting a rumble strip on the side of the road 
  • Frequent yawning or blinking, nodding your head 
  • Missing your exit 
  • Trouble remembering the last few miles you’ve driven 

What to do if You Think You’re Driving Drowsy

If you think you may be too tired to drive safely, it’s important that you stop driving as soon as possible. Pull over at the next exit so you can stay safe. Once you pull over you can:

  • Change drivers 
  • Take a nap 
  • Stop for the night 
  • Get out and stretch 
  • Drink coffee 

Stretching and drinking coffee are temporary solutions, however. Changing drivers can be especially helpful if the other driver is still alert.

However, sleeping, whether that’s napping or stopping for the night, is the most effective solution.

Drowsy Driving Prevention

You can stop the dangerous situation of drowsy driving before it starts by taking preventive measures. First and foremost is getting adequate sleep at night.

  • Get enough sleep at night. Make sleep a priority every night. Adults typically need seven to seven and a half hours of sleep each night, and teens need at least eight hours. 
  • Take care to schedule your day around sleep, not the other way around, especially when you’re planning long road trips. If you struggle to sleep in hotels during road trips, consider bringing an air mattress to stay comfortable and rest well. 
  • Practice healthy sleep hygiene. Getting quality sleep is important at home as well. Stick to a regular sleep schedule and maintain a daily bedtime routine so your body can benefit from consistency and get to sleep easier. 
  • It’s also a good idea to avoid sleep pitfalls, such as caffeine late at night, screen time before bed, and heavy meals just before bed. 
  • Take care with medications. Always read warning labels on medications to find out if they can make you sleepy. Talk to your doctor and pharmacists about when and how you should take your medications to avoid driving when they may cause drowsiness. 
  • Address sleep issues. If you’re suffering from sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about treatment. Undiagnosed or untreated sleep disorders can rob you of the sleep you need to function well in daily life, including driving safely. 
  • Drive on alert for drowsy drivers. Even if you’ve slept well and have enough energy to drive safely, that doesn’t mean others have. You should always drive on alert, watching out for drowsy drivers, especially at night. Most drowsy driving accidents happen between midnight and 6 a.m., and drowsy drivers often veer into adjacent lanes or run off the road, taking out whatever is in their path.
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