James Ellison | Annapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer

In March, I represented a young man of 18 years of age who was charged with felony drug distribution. I was able to have the felony charges dropped and allow him to not have any conviction on his record. This outcome made a big difference in his life, as he will not be a felon and will not have any conviction on his record as he continues through college and eventually into his career.Last month, a case involving felony gun and drug possession was completely dismissed on my motion due to the prosecutor's fatal error in the case.Also last month, I represented a young woman who had fallen into a drug addiction after a surgery. I was able to reduce the theft charges in several cases against a young woman, having all cases dismissed and reduced into a single case for drug court. She is now receiving the medical treatment she needs and a second chance. If successful, she will not have a conviction on her record and will be able to have a fresh start as she pursues her education and employment opportunities.

Putting clients first and finding innovative ways to get them the best outcome possible.

A client that puts your interests first, will be up front with you about the strengths and weaknesses in your case, and present options to get the best outcome possible.

Local knowledge of the court and the attorneys can be a good resource in understanding and presenting the options. I am familiar with the judge in the local counties, e.g. Anne Arundel, Prince George's, Queen Anne's, Howard, Dorchester, Baltimore County, and Baltimore City.

I can provide an initial impression of the case and will generally provide my insight as to how the potential client should proceed.

I need to know as much information as possible to give the best initial impression. The nature of the criminal charges, the reasons given for a termination of employment and any allegations of employment misconduct, or the circumstances surrounding the injury claimed.

My style is one of a complete analysis. As a practitioner in several areas of law, I look at the whole person rather than just the individual case. I may see something in an employment claim that has criminal liability; or, I may see something in a workers' compensation claim that involves a claim for wrongful discharge. Having this holistic approaches gives the client a better resolution of their issues as well as how they proceed forward in other matters of their life.

Helping people resolve outstanding issues and improve their lives, whether that is getting them the compensation they deserve, freeing them from incarceration to see their families, or providing counsel to a person facing a rough patch in their life. Seeing an uplift in the client at the end of the process can be the most rewarding aspect of the attorney-client relationship.

I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and sports. I play in the bar association softball with other local attorneys and judges. I also attend several legal seminars and education trips a year.

I am active with several non-profit organizations advancing causes that are dear to me, including wetlands and water preservation and civil rights.

• Maryland State Bar Association
  Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association
  American Bar Association
  American Association for Justice
  Maryland Association for Justice
  Anne Arundel County Bar Association
  

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