A Child Pornography Possession Lawyer Howard County helps you fight charges under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 11-207. In Howard County, these cases carry severe penalties including mandatory sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Contact us 24/7.
Understanding Child Pornography Possession Charges in Howard County
Under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 11-207, it is illegal to knowingly possess, access, or view child pornography (also called CSAM — child sexual abuse material). A conviction carries up to 10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration for life. The District Court of MD for Howard County handles initial appearances, while felony trials occur in Howard County Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Md. Code, Criminal Law § 11-207
External Legal Resources
- Md. Code, Criminal Law § 11-207 (official Maryland General Assembly) — Defines possession of child pornography.
- District Court of MD for Howard County — Court website for Howard County.
Insider Procedural Edge: How We Handle Your Case
In Howard County, prosecutors often rely on digital forensics from devices seized under warrant. A Child Pornography Possession Lawyer Howard County must challenge the legality of the search and the chain of custody.
- Step 1: Review the search warrant for particularity and probable cause.
- Step 2: Analyze digital forensics for chain-of-custody issues.
- Step 3: File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
- Step 4: Negotiate with the State’s Attorney for Howard County for a reduction or dismissal.
- Step 5: Prepare for trial if no acceptable plea is offered.
In Howard County, possession of child pornography under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 11-207 carries up to 10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Child Pornography | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $25,000 | None directly | Mandatory sex offender registration (lifetime); loss of professional licenses; firearm prohibition |
| Distribution of Child Pornography | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $50,000 | None directly | Same as above; federal charges possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our team includes Kristen M. Fisher, a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland who prosecuted criminal cases in both District and Circuit Courts. She joined the firm in 2010 and dedicates 75% of her practice to litigation. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Case Results
SRIS actively practices in Howard County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Examples include a Baltimore County child pornography possession case where 5 years incarceration was suspended with 5 years supervised probation, and two child pornography distribution cases resolved by Nolle Prosequi.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Howard County Location
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Howard County courts. Accessible via I-95, Route 29, Route 1, Route 32, and Route 175.
We serve: Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, Laurel (partial).
Child Pornography Possession Lawyer near Howard County — 24/7 phone consultations: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Howard County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. It avoids a formal conviction on your record. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Howard County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases are expunged through the court where the case was heard.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Howard County, Maryland?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court of MD for Howard County.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Howard County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault: up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500: up to 6 months. An attorney can negotiate PBJ or dismissal.
What is the difference between possession and distribution of child pornography?
Possession means knowingly having the material. Distribution means sharing, selling, or transmitting it. Distribution carries up to 20 years in prison, while possession carries up to 10 years. Both require sex offender registration.
Related Practice Areas
- Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Montgomery County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Howard County DUI Lawyer
- Howard County Family Law Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.