[Jarhead_22]

In Maryland it is a crime to record your conversations IF you KNOW about the law. It was never proven that Linda had any knowledge of this law.

So, in this case, ignorance of the law is a defense?

As I said above, I have no skin in this game. I just posited a guess as to why she is still looking for work, even with a Republican administration in the White House.

[Stand Watch Listen]

So, in this case, ignorance of the law is a defense?

Yes! In Maryland, for this law...yes. In the 1998-2000 timeframe, it was repeatedly brought up that without witness' statements, no DA would take this case. All the defendent would have to plead is that they did not know it was against the law.

However, that did not hinder the Clinton enablers/apologists from filing a case against Linda Tripp.

I'm sure this Maryland law will be rewritten.

[Smedley]

So, in this case, ignorance of the law is a defense?

Actually, ignorance of the law is a defense when the law specifically provides for such.

[bvw]

Mens rea is a required part of many statues. That means the accused must be shown to have known the alleged violation was illegal. I understand the Maryland wiretap law requires mens rea, in addition to being a statute that hasn't really been tested -- shown to be valid in appeal.