Maryland HB477 allows out-of-court statements in second-degree assault cases if the defendant caused the declarant's unavailability.

Maryland HB477 amends the state's criminal procedure rules to allow the admission of out-of-court statements in criminal cases involving second-degree assault. This change applies when the defendant is charged with assault in the second degree and has engaged in, directed, or conspired to commit wrongdoing that caused the declarant's unavailability. The statement must be recorded in a specific manner and the opposing party must be notified of the intention to offer the statement.

Maryland HB477 allows out-of-court statements in second-degree assault cases if the defendant caused the declarant's unavailability.

Maryland HB477 amends the state's criminal procedure rules to allow the admission of out-of-court statements in criminal cases involving second-degree assault. This change applies when the defendant is charged with assault in the second degree and has engaged in, directed, or conspired to commit wrongdoing that caused the declarant's unavailability. The statement must be recorded in a specific manner and the opposing party must be notified of the intention to offer the statement.