How can I get my criminal case expunged?
First you need to determine if your case is eligible to be expunged. You also must determine if any waiting periods are applicable. The clerk's Office can provide you with forms, but we cannot determine whether you should apply or whether your request for an expungement will be granted. For more information on expungements, read the brochure prepared by the Judiciary of Maryland, called "Expungement, Information about Removing Criminal Records from Public Access in Maryland," available at: https://www.mdcourts.gov/video/selfhelp/expungement.
More Information can also be found at the People's Law Library website.
What is a Public Defender? Are they real lawyers?
An Assistant Public Defender is a lawyer provided by the Office of the Public Defender (OPD) to represent person charged with criminal offenses who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. All Assistant Public Defenders are licensed attorneys who have completed law school and are sworn members of the Maryland Bar.
How do I obtain the services of a Public Defender? What is the contact information for the Public Defender?
If you are charged with a crime and cannot afford to hire a lawyer, you should ask to be referred to the Office of the Public Defender at your first appearance before a judge. Then you must go immediately to the local Public Defender's Office to apply for services.
Calvert County
200 Duke Street
Room 2000
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
Phone: 443-550-6800
Walk-In Intake Hours:
8:30 am - 11:30 am &
1:00 pm - 3:30 pm
What do I need to do to apply for the assistance of a Public Defender?
Do not delay in contacting the Public Defender's Office. You must apply for services no later than 10 business days prior to your trial date. If you are currently incarcerated, representative from the Public Defender's Office routinely visit the jails to see if persons require their services. The offices are open Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm. (Not all offices offer Intake Services. Call 877-430-5187 for information about the nearest Intake Office.) You should bring all of your charging documents, and you must provide proof of income when making an application at one of the local Public Defender Offices.
Calvert County
200 Duke Street
Room 2000
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
Phone: 443-550-6800
Walk-In Intake Hours:
8:30 am - 11:30 am &
1:00 pm - 3:30 pm
I forgot my court date. How do I find out when it is?
You can look up the case online at CaseSearch. Court dates should appear under Court Scheduling Information. You may also call the Clerk's Office at 410-535-1600 ext. 2268 (Civil) and ext. 2270 (Criminal).
Where can I get a copy of a police officer's statement of charges?
The statement of charges is generally part of your criminal case file. You may obtain copies at the Clerk of Circuit Court's Office for $ .25 per page.
I want to ask the Judge to modify my sentence. How can I do that?
If you want to ask the sentencing Judge to modify your sentence, you can do so by filing a "Motion for Reconsideration of Modification of Sentence," or you can write a letter to the sentencing Judge that clearly states your case number, your current sentence, and your reasons for requesting reconsideration or modification. You should provide a copy to the State's Attorney's Office, as well. For assistance, contact your attorney and/or the Office of the Public Defender.