After a defendant pleads or is found guilty, a Judge determines the sentence that he or she is to receive, based on the sentencing guidelines which may include prison or probation.
In Maryland, a criminal defendant generally has the right to appeal decisions of the Circuit Court to the Court of Special Appeals. Some decisions of the Court of Special Appeals are “reported” decisions, which means they are generally available to the public and may be used as legal authority in other cases.
Both the State and a criminal defendant have the right to ask the Court of Appeals to review a decision of the Court of Special Appeals. Like the United States Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals does not have to grant the request. Almost all decisions of the Court of Appeals are reported.
Below are links to recent reported appellate opinions involving Worcester County cases. The link will take you to the Maryland Judiciary’s website. Be advised that the opinions available online do not necessarily reflect the final versions of the opinion.