Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Hagerstown & Washington County, MD
A criminal charge can change your life quickly. Whether you are facing a DUI, an assault charge, a drug offense, or something more serious, the decisions you make in the days and weeks after being charged matter. The Law Offices of Andrea Cheeatow represents individuals facing criminal charges in Hagerstown, Washington County, Frederick County, and throughout the surrounding Maryland courts.
Criminal charges can affect your freedom, your finances, your driving privileges, your employment, and your reputation. Our attorneys understand what is at stake and work to protect your rights at every stage of the process — from the initial appearance through trial, if necessary.
Contact our Hagerstown office to speak with a criminal defense attorney about your situation.
Criminal Defense Services
Our attorneys handle a wide range of criminal matters in Maryland's District and Circuit Courts. Below is an overview of the types of cases we handle.
DUI / DWI
Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI) are among the most common criminal charges in Maryland, and they carry real consequences: potential jail time, fines, license suspension, and a record that can affect your life for years. In Maryland, DUI and DWI charges depend on the facts of the stop, the officer's observations, chemical test results, and other evidence. A BAC of 0.08% or higher may support a DUI per se charge, carrying a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine, with increased penalties for repeat offenses. A BAC of 0.07% to under 0.08% may be treated as prima facie evidence of impairment — however, DWI is not defined solely by that BAC range. A first DWI offense can carry up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, with increased penalties for repeat offenses. Both charges can also trigger separate MVA proceedings affecting your driving privileges. DUI and DWI charges can also arise from driving under the influence of drugs, not just alcohol.
Our attorneys have handled DUI and DWI cases in Washington County and surrounding Maryland courts and understand both the criminal and MVA sides of these matters.
Assault & Domestic Violence-Related Charges
Assault charges in Maryland range from misdemeanor second-degree assault to felony first-degree assault, with penalties that can include significant prison time. Charges involving domestic situations — including allegations between household members or intimate partners — can also carry additional consequences such as protective orders that affect where you can live or who you can contact.
If you are facing an assault charge or a domestic violence-related matter, it is important to have an attorney who understands both the criminal defense side and the related civil proceedings. For information about protective orders, see our Family Law page.
Drug / CDS Charges
Maryland drug charges — whether for possession, distribution, or paraphernalia — can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies depending on the substance and the circumstances. CDS (controlled dangerous substance) charges can affect not only your freedom but also your employment, professional licenses, and housing. Our attorneys have experience defending clients against drug possession and distribution charges in Washington County and Frederick County courts.
Theft, Burglary & Property Crimes
Theft charges in Maryland are graded by the value of the property involved, ranging from misdemeanor theft charges to felony charges that can carry up to 20 years for theft of $100,000 or more. Maryland burglary offenses depend on the type of property involved and the intent alleged at the time of entry. For example, first-degree burglary generally involves breaking and entering a dwelling with intent to commit theft, while related offenses may involve intent to commit a crime of violence. Second-degree burglary generally involves a storehouse and specific alleged criminal intent. Burglary charges are serious felonies with substantial maximum penalties. We represent clients facing theft, burglary, robbery, fraud, and related property crime charges.
Robbery & Armed Robbery
Robbery generally involves taking property from another person, or from the person's presence and control, by force or threat of force. In Maryland, robbery carries a maximum sentence of 15 years. If a dangerous weapon is involved, the charge may be armed robbery, punishable by up to 20 years. These are serious charges that require experienced courtroom representation.
Traffic Offenses & Driving While Suspended or Revoked
Driving while your license is suspended or revoked is a criminal offense in Maryland, not just a traffic infraction. A first offense carries up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine; a second offense can result in up to two years. Common reasons for suspension include unpaid tickets, DUI/DWI convictions, excessive points, and failure to pay child support. We handle traffic-related criminal charges and can help you understand your options.
Probation Violations
If you are on probation and have been accused of a violation — whether a new charge or a technical violation — you may be facing incarceration on your original sentence. Probation violation hearings have different procedural rules than criminal trials, and the stakes can be high. Our attorneys represent clients at violation of probation hearings in Washington County and surrounding courts.
MVA Hearings & License Issues
Many criminal charges trigger separate proceedings before the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) that can result in license suspension or revocation independent of the criminal case outcome. Some MVA deadlines are very short. In administrative per se cases involving a test refusal or a qualifying BAC result, an important deadline may be as short as 10 days. Other MVA notices may use different deadlines, so it is important to act quickly. Drug-impaired driving and other driving-related drug offenses may also trigger MVA proceedings that can affect your license. We can help you navigate MVA hearings alongside your criminal matter.
Firearms Charges
Illegal possession of a firearm and related firearms charges are serious offenses in Maryland. Our attorneys have experience defending clients against firearms charges, including illegal gun possession, in Washington County and surrounding courts.
What to Do After Being Charged
If you have been charged with a crime in Maryland, here are some general steps to keep in mind:
- Contact an attorney promptly. The earlier you have legal representation, the better positioned you are to understand your options. Do not wait until your court date.
- Do not ignore deadlines or court notices. Missing a court date can result in a bench warrant for your arrest. Failing to respond to MVA notices can result in automatic license suspension.
- Do not discuss your case. Avoid discussing the details of your situation with anyone other than your attorney — including on social media.
- Keep all paperwork. Hold onto any charging documents, court notices, or MVA correspondence you receive. Bring them to your consultation.
This information is general in nature and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Andrea Cheeatow
Local presence in Hagerstown. Our office is located at 134 West Washington Street in Hagerstown. We practice regularly in Washington County District Court and Circuit Court, as well as in Frederick County and other nearby Maryland jurisdictions. We know the local courts and the local process.
Former public defender experience. Both Andrea Cheeatow and Daniel Tait are former Maryland Assistant Public Defenders. Ms. Cheeatow spent over four years with the Maryland Office of the Public Defender, handling hundreds of cases in district and circuit courts. Mr. Tait aggressively defended thousands of clients against government prosecution in all types of criminal matters — including felonies, misdemeanors, DUI/DWI, CDS offenses, burglary, robbery, theft, firearms charges, and probation violations. That background means our attorneys understand how the prosecution approaches these cases, and they bring that perspective to every client's defense.
Personalized attention. We work directly with our clients throughout their cases. You will know who is handling your matter and be able to reach them with questions. We believe clear communication is part of effective representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after being charged with a crime in Maryland?
The most important step is to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Do not ignore court notices, deadlines, or any correspondence from the MVA. Avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney. Early involvement of counsel gives you the best opportunity to understand your options and protect your rights from the start.
Do I need a lawyer for a DUI or DWI charge?
A DUI or DWI conviction in Maryland can result in jail time, fines, license suspension, and a record that can affect your life for years — including your employment and insurance. In some situations, Maryland law may allow expungement or shielding after waiting periods and if statutory requirements are met. Having an attorney who understands Maryland DUI law and MVA procedures can make a significant difference in how your case is handled. Every case is different, and an attorney can help you understand what you are facing and what options may be available.
Can a criminal charge affect my driver's license?
Yes. Many criminal charges — particularly DUI/DWI and driving while suspended or revoked — can trigger separate MVA proceedings that may result in license suspension or revocation. Drug-impaired driving and other driving-related drug offenses may also trigger MVA proceedings that can affect your license. These MVA matters often have their own deadlines and hearing processes that are separate from the criminal court case. An attorney can help you navigate both.
Do you handle cases in Washington County District Court and Circuit Court?
Yes. We handle criminal matters in both the District Court and Circuit Court of Washington County, as well as in Frederick County and other Maryland jurisdictions. Our attorneys have experience in both trial settings.
What happens at the first court appearance in a Maryland criminal case?
After an arrest in Maryland, a person is often taken before a District Court commissioner for an initial appearance, where rights, probable cause, and release conditions may be addressed. Arraignment is a separate proceeding that may occur later, depending on the court and posture of the case. Having an attorney retained early — before or shortly after the initial appearance — can be important for protecting your interests from the start.
Can you help with a probation violation?
Yes. Probation violation hearings carry serious consequences, including incarceration on the underlying sentence. Our attorneys have experience representing clients at violation of probation hearings in Washington County and surrounding Maryland courts.
How much does an initial consultation cost?
The cost for an initial consultation is $100.00, paid by debit or credit card when the appointment is scheduled. All consultations are conducted by telephone. If you choose to hire the firm, the $100.00 fee is credited toward your retainer. Otherwise, the fee is non-refundable.
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