Maryland Code, LOCAL GOVERNMENT 11-207

Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.
Plea: In a criminal case, the defendant's statement pleading "guilty" or "not guilty" in answer to the charges, a declaration made in open court.
Probation: A sentencing alternative to imprisonment in which the court releases convicted defendants under supervision as long as certain conditions are observed.
Testify: Answer questions in court.
Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.
Verdict: The decision of a petit jury or a judge.

(a) In a civil infraction proceeding:

(1) the court shall confirm that the defendant has received a copy of and understands the charges;

(2) the defendant may enter a plea of guilty or not guilty;

(3) the court shall apply the evidentiary standards provided by law for the trial of a criminal case;

(4) the defendant may:

(i) cross-examine witnesses;

(ii) produce evidence or witnesses on the defendant’s behalf;

(iii) testify; and

(iv) be represented by counsel of the defendant’s own choice and at the defendant’s expense; and

(5) the burden of proof is the same as required by law in the trial of a criminal case.

(b) The court may:

(1) enter a verdict of guilty or not guilty; or

(2) before entering a verdict, place the defendant on probation in the same manner as allowed in the trial of a criminal case.