Business Regulations Code
There are dozens of business regulations under Maryland law, which cover all types of commercial activities from amusement parks to cemeteries. The business regulations code contains several criminal violations, which provide jail sentences for some violations. These potential jail sentences range from 30 days for up to 3 years for repeat violators of certain business regulations. If you have been charged with any violation, contact Maryland business regulations lawyer Benjamin Herbst anytime for a free consultation. Benjamin has successfully represented numerous individuals charged with doing business without a license and he never settles for anything less than the best possible outcome. Most of his clients are first time offenders with no criminal record, and Benjamin does whatever it takes to keep it this way. Contact Benjamin to find what defenses may be available in your case and never show up in court without a lawyer. Business regulations violations are criminal offenses and cannot be taken lightly. State prosecutors and judges take these offenses seriously, so make sure you are prepared before going to court.
The most common business regulations violation is the general provision against doing business without a license under section 17-2102. This offense applies to almost all businesses in the state of Maryland including stores, restaurants and auto shops. All of these businesses must have valid licenses, and all must display that license on the physical property of the business. A person who fails to display a business license could also face an additional charge under 17-2103 for failure to display license. Both offenses carry up to 30 days in jail and a $300 fine. Other common business regulations violations include operating a construction company without a license or acting as a contractor without a license. Acting as a contractor without a license under 8-601 is a serious offense that carries up 6 months in jail for a first offense and up to 2 years in prison for each additional conviction.
The Maryland Business Regulations code also prohibits operating as a locksmith, or HVAC professional without a license. These violations are less common than those involving home improvement contractors, but the penalties upon violation are just as harsh. Maryland also prohibits licenses for amusement attractions and specifically prohibits operating a bungee jumping business under 3-503. Illegal bungee jumping operation carries up to 6 months in jail. There are a host of regulations regarding the sale of tobacco covered by the business regulations statute, and Benjamin can defend any of these charges. He accepts cases in all Maryland jurisdictions including Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County, Western Maryland and the entire Eastern Shore. Many of these cases can be resolved out of court and in some cases, Benjamin can arrange for a dismissal without the presence of his client in court. He offers flexible payment plans for all cases and understands that these cases are often brought with little warning to the defendant. In addition to arguing for a dismissal, Benjamin can also fight the charge on grounds that the defendant is a mere employee and was issued the violation in error. Call Benjamin at 410-207-2598 for a free consultation anytime.