Criminal Defense

A criminal charge can affect nearly every aspect of a person's life — their liberty, employment, family relationships, driver's license, reputation, and permanent record. Attorneys Lewis Metzner and Thomas C. Houpt are dedicated to representing individuals facing criminal charges in Hagerstown, Washington County, and surrounding Maryland communities. They bring a thorough, honest, and client-focused approach to criminal defense, combined with a commitment to the highest ethical standards.

The decisions made early in a criminal case can matter significantly. From the moment of arrest through the initial appearance, bail review or pretrial release hearing, plea negotiations, and trial preparation, having experienced legal counsel involved can help protect your rights and allow the defense to begin building a strategy tailored to your situation. Metzner & Houpt will guide you through each stage of the process and work to understand the specific facts and circumstances of your case.

Criminal Defense Representation in Hagerstown and Washington County

Metzner & Houpt represents clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in Hagerstown, Washington County, and surrounding Maryland communities. Whether you are dealing with a misdemeanor or a serious felony, the firm provides focused, individualized representation at every stage of the case.

The firm handles matters including DUI/DWI, assault, theft and property crimes, drug charges, firearm offenses, probation violations, and other misdemeanor and felony matters in state and federal court. Each case is different, and the attorneys work to understand the specific facts and circumstances before developing a defense approach.

What to Do After an Arrest in Maryland

If you or a family member has been arrested, the steps taken in the hours and days that follow can be important. The following is general public information — not individualized legal advice — about steps that are commonly recommended after an arrest:

Exercise your right to remain silent. You are not required to answer questions from law enforcement beyond providing basic identifying information. Politely invoking your right to remain silent is generally advisable.
Ask for an attorney. You have the right to have an attorney present during questioning. Clearly requesting an attorney is an important step.
Avoid discussing the facts of the case. In general, it is advisable to avoid discussing the details of the case with police, alleged victims, witnesses, or on social media unless your attorney advises otherwise. Statements made in any of these contexts can potentially be used in the case.
Keep all paperwork and court documents. Preserve any charging documents, court notices, release paperwork, or other records related to the case. These documents can be important for your attorney.
Contact a criminal defense attorney as early as possible. Early involvement of counsel can help ensure that your rights are protected from the beginning and that the defense has the opportunity to gather information and prepare.

Every case is different. The information above is general in nature and is not a substitute for legal advice specific to your situation.

Bail Review Hearings and Initial Appearances

After an arrest, one of the first court proceedings is typically an initial appearance before a judicial officer. At the initial appearance, the person is informed of the charges and their rights. If the person remains in custody, the case may proceed to a bail review hearing before a judge, where the court considers whether the person should be released while the case is pending and what pretrial release conditions, if any, should apply.

Maryland practice allows for a range of pretrial release outcomes depending on the circumstances. A judge may release someone on personal recognizance, set non-financial conditions of release, require a bond, or in some cases order that the person remain held. The outcome depends on factors such as the nature of the charges, the person's ties to the community, prior record, and other considerations specific to the case.

Having counsel involved early can help ensure that relevant information — such as employment, family responsibilities, community ties, and a proposed release plan — is presented to the court. While no attorney can promise a particular result, early representation allows the defense to begin protecting the client's rights and preparing for next steps from the outset.

For a more detailed explanation of what to expect at these early proceedings, see our article: What Happens at a Bail Review Hearing in Maryland.

If you or a family member has been charged with a crime in Hagerstown or Washington County, contact Metzner & Houpt to discuss your situation. Call 301-739-7400 to speak with a member of our team.

Serious Felony Offenses

Murder and Manslaughter

Unlawful killing of another human being without legal justification. Includes attempt and conspiracy charges. Among the most serious of all criminal offenses; penalties can vary significantly depending on the facts of the case, prior record, and applicable law.

Sex Crimes

Federal and state offenses, including sexual assault, child sex abuse, and internet-related sex crimes. These offenses are extremely serious, particularly in the federal system, and can carry substantial penalties depending on the nature of the charge and the circumstances.

Robbery and Carjacking

Taking property (or a vehicle) from another through violence or intimidation. These cases are taken very seriously, especially when a firearm is involved. Penalties can vary depending on the facts of the case and applicable law.

Drug Offenses

Federal and state offenses relating to the possession, distribution, conspiracy to distribute, and manufacturing of controlled dangerous substances such as crack, cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and PCP. Penalties can vary significantly depending on the nature of the charge, the substance involved, and other circumstances.

Firearm Offenses

Federal and state offenses relating to the use, possession, and distribution of firearms. These offenses are extremely serious, especially when combined with narcotics charges or violent felonies. Penalties can vary depending on the specific charge and circumstances.

Aggravated Assault

Causing serious bodily injury, typically with a firearm or other dangerous weapon. Penalties can vary depending on the facts of the case, the nature of the injury, and applicable law.

Major Theft and Fraud

Federal and state offenses including identity theft, bank fraud, credit card fraud, serious theft and fraud offenses, and burglary. Includes attempted and conspiracy charges. Penalties can vary depending on the nature and value of the alleged conduct and other circumstances.

Misdemeanors

Simple Assault

Unlawful threatening to inflict bodily harm, or inflicting bodily harm, usually absent the presence of a dangerous weapon. Penalties can range from probation to possible incarceration depending on the circumstances.

Drug Offenses

State and federal offenses relating to the possession of controlled dangerous substances such as crack, cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and PCP. Penalties can vary depending on the substance, the circumstances, and applicable law.

Theft

Taking of property without consent or authorization. Misdemeanor theft charges typically involve property of lesser value, though the specific classification and penalties depend on the facts of the case and applicable law. Penalties can range from probation to possible incarceration.

Solicitation

Offering money or something else of value to engage in sexual intercourse with another. This offense is taken seriously and can result in jail time depending on the circumstances.

Destruction of Property

Intentionally causing damage or destruction to another's property. Penalties can range from probation to possible incarceration depending on the circumstances.

DWI & Serious Traffic Offenses

Driving While Intoxicated

Includes related charges such as Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Driving While Impaired. Penalties can vary depending on the number of prior offenses and other circumstances, and may include probation, fines, license consequences, or incarceration.

Reckless Driving

Driving on the roadways without due regard for the safety of other motorists. This offense is taken seriously, especially when combined with alcohol-related charges.

License Suspension and Revocation Offenses

Driving on the roadway without proper and valid identification, registration, tags, or insurance. Penalties can vary depending on the number of prior offenses and other circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you've been arrested, you should exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Contact our office as soon as possible so we can begin protecting your rights and building your defense.

Reviewed by Lewis C. Metzner, J.D. on August 18, 2025

In Maryland, misdemeanors are generally less serious crimes that typically carry penalties of up to one year in jail. Felonies are more serious offenses that can result in imprisonment for more than one year. Felony convictions also typically result in the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote or possess firearms.

Reviewed by Lewis C. Metzner, J.D. on August 18, 2025

At an initial appearance, a judicial officer will inform you of the charges against you and your right to counsel. If you're being held in custody, a bail review hearing will determine whether you can be released pending trial and under what conditions. Having an attorney represent you at these early stages can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Reviewed by Thomas C. Houpt, J.D. on August 18, 2025

In Maryland, DUI and DWI convictions generally cannot be expunged from your record. However, if your case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you may be eligible for expungement. The rules surrounding expungement are complex, and we can help determine if you qualify based on the specific circumstances of your case.

Reviewed by Thomas C. Houpt, J.D. on August 18, 2025

Consequences of a DUI/DWI conviction in Maryland may include jail time, fines, probation, mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs, and driver's license suspension or revocation. The severity of these consequences typically increases with prior offenses. There may also be collateral consequences such as increased insurance rates and potential impact on employment.

Reviewed by Thomas C. Houpt, J.D. on August 18, 2025

Criminal Defense