The Most Common Reasons Criminal Charges Get Dismissed

 Posted on April 17, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Getting arrested is not the same as being convicted of a crime. In fact, there are several reasons why a charge might end up getting dismissed before the judge ever gives a verdict. If you have been arrested for a criminal offense, a Maryland defense attorney can review your case and pursue the best possible outcome on your behalf.

Oftentimes, getting the charges against you dismissed is the most favorable resolution to a case. At Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our attorneys have served as former state prosecutors, so we know how to effectively navigate a criminal charge in court. When you work with our firm, we will explore all possible strategies to protect your best interests.

Errors in Law Enforcement Procedure

Sometimes, a simple mistake in law enforcement procedure is all it takes to spoil the prosecution’s case. One of the most common errors committed by police officers is a violation of probable cause. If you were searched or arrested without evidence to suggest a crime was committed, you might have an avenue to get the charges against you dismissed.

The Fourth Amendment protects all Americans from unreasonable searches and seizures. When a Fourth Amendment violation is brought to the court’s attention, it could result in illegally seized evidence being suppressed, or the case getting dismissed altogether. At Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we will look closely at your case to see if your Constitutional rights were violated.

Not Enough Evidence

To secure a conviction against you, the prosecution must prove your guilt to the court "beyond a reasonable doubt." This means that the evidence presented must overwhelmingly suggest that you committed the crime. If this burden of proof is not satisfied, the case against you could be dismissed.

Our firm’s defense attorneys include former state prosecutors, so we are highly familiar with the burden of proof required to convict. If there is not enough evidence – such as witness testimony, DNA evidence, or video footage – to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, we will aggressively argue to have the charges dismissed.

Lack of Intent or Knowledge

Many crimes are defined by intent. For instance, assault in the first degree is understood as "intentionally causing physical injury" to another person. Similarly, the crime of theft requires an intent to deprive another person of property. Depending on the crime, if you can prove that your conduct was accidental or not malicious, you might get the charges against you dismissed.

Our lawyers will examine the events that led up to your arrest. In the absence of willful or knowing criminal intent, you may have a valid defense against prosecution.

Meet With a Worcester County, MD Criminal Law Attorney Today

If you have been arrested for a criminal offense, do not assume that you will be found guilty without question. At Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our Ocean City, MD criminal defense lawyers will strategize with you to protect your future, considering every viable avenue to get the charges dismissed.

We are available 24/7 for any client inquiries. For a free consultation, call us at 410-280-2500 today.