Posts by Drew Cochran
Maryland’s Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act: What Drivers Must Know
Maryland drivers have always known that speeding means risking a ticket and inflated insurance rates—but now, speeding doesn’t just mean a ticket. A recently passed law known as the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act means that some speeding drivers will face jail time. This law is named after an Officer whose life was changed forever by…
Read MoreHow the Kepp Act Compares to Other States’ Laws
Maryland’s new Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act has changed how excessive speeding is punished throughout the state. For the first time in Maryland, driving more than 30 MPH over the speed limit isn’t just a citable offense—it’s a crime. This law, passed in 2025, honors Sergeant Patrick Kepp. During a traffic stop, he was hit by…
Read MoreWhat Constitutes a Hate Crime and What Are Some Defense Strategies?
Most people understand what a crime is, but once the words “hate crime” enter the conversation, everything shifts. Perspectives change and personal belief and opinion come into the mix, and suddenly, the focus isn’t on what you did, but why you did it. And that one word—intent—can turn an already serious charge into something more…
Read MoreReckless Driving vs. Speeding in Maryland: What’s the Legal Difference?
You’re cruising down I-97 in Anne Arundel County when the flashing lights come on behind you. Maybe you were in a hurry, weaving between lanes, or just going a little faster than you realized. The officer walks up and hands you a ticket, but when you look closer, it doesn’t just say “speeding.” It says…
Read MoreKey Differences Between Federal and State Criminal Charges
You hear someone’s been charged with a crime, so naturally, you want to know: is it federal or state? For most people, that question feels like a technicality until they, or someone they love, gets charged. Then, it’s no longer academic. The courtroom you land in could determine how serious your case becomes, how long…
Read MoreEven Assuming You’re Guilty, You Still Need a Strong Defense in Maryland
You’ve been charged with a crime. The evidence feels stacked against you. Maybe you’ve even admitted you did it. At this point, you might wonder if hiring a criminal defense lawyer is even worth it. Isn’t the case over? No. Even if guilt isn’t in question, a skilled defense attorney can make an enormous difference…
Read MoreSpeeding in a Work Zone in Maryland: Hefty Fines and Criminal Charges
Let’s be honest. You’ve probably driven through a work zone without thinking too much about it. Maybe you didn’t even see any workers around. However, here’s the thing: Maryland takes work zone speeding very seriously. And if you’re caught driving too fast in one, you could face hefty fines, points on your license, or even…
Read MoreCan You Really Beat a Speeding Ticket in Maryland? What the Law Actually Allows
You’re driving home after a long day, maybe running a little late, when flashing lights appear in your rearview mirror. The officer says you were speeding, and just like that, you’ve got a ticket in your hand and questions in your head. Do I really have to pay this? Can I fight it? Is it…
Read MoreCaught by a Red-Light Camera in Maryland? Here’s What You Need to Know
You’re driving through an intersection in Towson or Glen Burnie, maybe just trying to beat the yellow. A few days later, you get something in the mail: a red-light camera citation. Just like that, you’re staring at a $75 fine and wondering what your options are. Red-light cameras aren’t new in Maryland, but over the…
Read More2025 Maryland Speeding Law Makes Jail Time Possible for Driving Too Fast
If you are a frequent violator of Maryland’s speed limits, you’re going to want to take note of a new law going into effect on October 1, 2025. The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act is named after Montgomery County Police Sergeant Patrick Kepp, who lost his legs after being struck by a reckless driver. The law…
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