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Questions, Answered

Frequently asked questions.

Straight answers about working with Cochran & Chhabra — criminal defense, DUI & DWI, personal injury, and family law across Maryland. Don’t see your question? Call 410.268.5515 — the consultation is complimentary.

Est. 1970 Anchored in Annapolis
50+ years combined trial experience
Maryland Courtrooms statewide
4.8 ★ 199 Google reviews
Getting Started

Working with Cochran & Chhabra.

Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. Your first consultation is complimentary and confidential — a real conversation about your situation, your options, and how we can help. There’s no obligation.
How much do you charge?
It depends on the matter. Some cases are handled on a flat fee, some hourly, and injury cases are commonly on a contingency basis. We explain fees clearly and up front, with no surprises.
Where are you located, and where do you practice?
Our office is at 116 B Cathedral Street in Annapolis. We represent clients throughout Maryland — from the district and circuit courts of Anne Arundel County to the appellate courts.
What languages do you speak?
We serve clients in English, Spanish, Punjabi, and Hindi. Hablamos español.
How quickly will someone get back to me?
We respond within 24 hours, and our phone is answered 24/7 for urgent matters — because in criminal and DUI cases, the first hours can matter most.
Criminal Defense

Arrests, charges, and your record.

What should I do right after an arrest in Maryland?
Say as little as possible, stay polite, and ask to speak with a lawyer before you answer questions. Don’t consent to searches. Then call us — the earlier we’re involved, the more we can protect.
Will a misdemeanor really affect my future?
It can. Even a misdemeanor can carry jail time, fines, and a record that follows you to jobs and housing. A real defense is worth it.
Can my charges be dismissed before trial?
Sometimes. If the stop, search, or evidence was unlawful, we move to suppress or dismiss. Every case is different — we’ll tell you honestly where yours stands.
Can my record be expunged in Maryland?
Many charges — and some convictions — can be expunged once you’re eligible. We handle the whole process, from confirming eligibility to filing the petition.
DUI & DWI

Protecting your license and your record.

Do I really need a lawyer for a first-offense DUI?
Yes. A first offense in Maryland can still mean jail, fines, and a license suspension. A real defense — starting with the traffic stop and the field sobriety testing — often changes the outcome.
What’s the 10-day MVA deadline I keep hearing about?
After a DUI stop you may have only 10 days to request an MVA hearing to protect your driver’s license. Miss it and an automatic suspension can take effect — so call as soon as you can.
Will I lose my license?
Not necessarily. There are two separate tracks — the MVA (your license) and the court (the criminal charge) — and steps on each can protect your ability to drive. We handle both.
Is a DUI different from a DWI in Maryland?
Yes. In Maryland, DUI (driving under the influence) is the more serious charge and carries greater penalties; DWI (driving while impaired) is a lesser offense. Both are serious and worth defending.
Personal Injury

After an accident or injury.

What does a personal injury lawyer cost?
The initial consultation is complimentary. Injury matters are commonly handled on a contingency basis — the attorney’s fee comes from any recovery rather than out of your pocket up front — and we’ll walk you through exactly how fees would work in your case before you decide anything.
Should I talk to the insurance company?
Be careful. Insurers move fast to limit what they pay, and a recorded statement can be used against you. Get medical care, keep every record, and talk to us before you give a statement or accept a settlement.
How long do I have to file a claim in Maryland?
Maryland generally gives you three years from the date of injury to file most personal injury claims, but some situations have shorter deadlines. Don’t wait — evidence fades and deadlines are strict.
Family Law

Divorce, custody, and support.

How does divorce work in Maryland?
We start with a confidential conversation about your situation and your goals, then lay out your options in plain English — and build a plan that protects you and your children.
How is child custody decided?
Maryland courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child, weighing many factors. We help you present your case clearly and keep the focus on what matters most — your kids.
Can custody or child support be changed later?
Often, yes. When there’s a material change in circumstances, custody and support orders can be modified. We can review your current order and advise on your options.
Request a Consultation

Tell us what happened. We'll take it from there.

A confidential review of your case, at no cost. We respond within 24 hours.

Mandeep and staff at Cochran & Chhabra are world class. His professionalism, preparedness and expertise protected my record and my future.
— Phil B., Google review
★★★★★ 4.8 across 199 Google reviews
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