Violent Crime Attorney in Howard County
More Than 50 Years of Experience Focused on Your Defense
Violent-crime cases require close review of the evidence and a strategy shaped by the charge, the person accused, and the potential consequences. At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake, we represent people facing serious allegations in Howard County, Maryland, while considering what’s at stake both inside and outside the courtroom.
Our attorneys bring more than 50 years of collective legal experience. David Zwanetz has practiced criminal defense exclusively for more than 20 years and has handled thousands of criminal cases throughout Maryland. Justin Lake served nearly four years as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Howard County, where he prosecuted major felony matters.
We maintain a short client list because a violent crime defense can turn on details that demand careful attention. We evaluate the legal case as well as the effects an accusation or conviction could have on employment, family responsibilities, professional licensing, and other personal priorities.
Speak with our violent crime defense attorneys about the allegations and your next steps. Call (410) 927-5137 to request a free, no-obligation consultation.
How We Prepare a Violent Crime Defense
We begin by seeking a candid account of what happened, including facts that may be difficult to discuss. Honest communication helps us identify disputed events, possible witnesses, relevant history, and issues that may not appear in the initial charging documents. In return, we provide straightforward advice about legal risks, available strategies, and practical considerations.
Our case evaluation may address:
- The State’s evidence, police reports, witness accounts, and procedural history
- Potential constitutional issues affecting searches, seizures, statements, or identification evidence
- Legal and factual defenses supported by the circumstances
- Mitigation, including relevant personal circumstances, when it fits the case
- Negotiation considerations and potential resolutions based on the client’s priorities
No single approach is appropriate for every allegation. We adjust our strategy to the evidence, courtroom, prosecutor, jurisdiction, and individual circumstances. That may involve challenging the State’s proof through litigation, pursuing a practical resolution, or preparing for trial when the facts and law call for it.
Our collaborative process brings multiple attorney perspectives to consequential decisions. Justin Lake’s prior prosecution work informs how we assess the State’s theories and arguments, while David Zwanetz’s defense and trial experience supports a thorough evaluation of contested felony allegations.
See Why We're the Right Choice
Reasons to Choose Our Firm
-
We approach every case as a team.
-
Every initial consultation is free and no-obligation.
-
We are available for you 24/7.
-
We are a team of former prosecutors and know how the other side thinks.
-
We have in-house payment plan options on qualifying cases.
-
We are highly recommended and awarded by various associations.
A High-Quality Reputation
Read Reviews from Real People
-
"Mr. Lake's reputation for integrity, diligence and competence which he earned as a former Assistant States Attorney and while he has been in private practice aided him in achieving the result he did."I am a retired Attorney who recommended a personal friend to Justin Lake. I received his name by speaking with an old friend of mine who is still considered one of the top criminal lawyers in Maryland. My friend was clearly guilty of driving while impaired as was evidenced by a video taken at the scene by the investigating officer and the fact that he failed the breathalyzer test. A verdict of Probation Before Judgement or Guilty would have been life altering for him and his family in that it could have resulted in his deportation from this Country and the absolute prohibition of his being able to apply for admission of his family in to the United States. My friend had learned that he had been granted asylum three days before he was charged. Aside from that charge he had an impeccable record. He is employed by a continuing care community where his service is valued which is evidenced by the excellent job reviews he has consistently received. Mr. Lake was engaged to represent him and charged a fee customary for representing someone charged with such an infraction. I know from my experience that he expended far more time on the case than he was compensated for, but he did not ask for an increase in the fee. He spoke multiple times with an Assistant State's Attorney of the County as well as the States Attorney, removed the case to a higher Court and with the Assistant State's Attorney met with the Circuit Court Judge of the County. At that meeting Mr. Lake introduced a legal opinion prepared by my friend's immigration attorneys with whom he conferred which set forth the aforementioned consequences that would ensue were any judgment aside from a PBJ(C) entered. It is the only judgment that would not impact his and his family's immigration status. Such a judgment is extremely rare. I am of the opinion that Mr. Lake's reputation for integrity, diligence and competence which he earned as a former Assistant States Attorney and while he has been in private practice aided him in achieving the result he did.- Rosser
-
"Will Be In Good Hands"I never hesitate to refer any potential clients with criminal defense needs to Justin Lake or David Zwanetz- Joe M.
-
"Easy to work with"Prompt, professional, and easy to work with as a client.- Zach S.
At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake (SZL) we believe in thinking differently from most lawyers and law firms. We help our clients understand and accept their legal situation; we work with them to confront and improve that situation, while seeking the best outcome available at law. We recognize that each client is a unique individual, each deserving of the highest client/customer service; and we just happen to get our clients excellent results while we deliver that exceptional service.
Discuss the Allegations & Your Next Steps
An early consultation allows us to discuss the charge, available information, immediate concerns, and upcoming decisions. Initial consultations are free and carry no obligation. We’re available 24/7 for urgent needs, and in-house payment plan options are available for qualifying cases.
Consultations about violent crime defense in Howard County may be requested by phone or through our contact form.
Call (410) 927-5137 to speak with Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake about the allegations and your defense options.
