From Reckless Driving to Forging Public Records
A recent story from the Washington Post illustrates the need for persons charged with crimes to get good legal counsel and work within the system.
On January 11, 2009, the Post reported that Nathan Devine, a Manassas Park resident charged with reckless driving, decided to change his court date so he could raise money for fines. Unfortunately, instead of working within the legal system with the help of his attorney, Devine chose a more direct method.
He called up Maria Merlos, a friend who worked in the Prince William County District Court offices, and asked her to change the court date for him. When the ruse was discovered, Merlos and Devine were each charged with forging public records, and Merlos was also charged with conspiracy to forge public records. All of these offenses are felonies and are far more serious crimes than reckless driving.
Merlos pleaded guilty to a lesser misdemeanor charge and was fired from her job. Devine pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of obstruction of justice. Both Devine and Merlos are required to serve 30 days in jail. By contrast, a Maryland reckless driving charge can carry a maximum penalty of $1000 and no jail time.
The needless actions of Devine and Merlos are the frustrating element of this case for a defense attorney. There are perfectly legal and accepted methods of obtaining a postponement of a court date. Situations like Devine’s are the reason that Meng & Alpert, LLC strongly recommend seeking legal counsel if you are charged with a crime, even a relatively minor traffic offense. Call us toll free at 866-444-6363 and talk to one of our skilled Maryland auto accident attorneys today.
