Criminal Defense Lawyer in Montgomery County, Maryland
A criminal charge in Montgomery County, Maryland, can lead to severe penalties, including jail time and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for charges like assault, theft, and drug offenses. Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, has documented results in Montgomery County. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Criminal Law and Your Defense
Maryland classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. A misdemeanor like second-degree assault can carry up to 10 years in prison, while felony theft over $1,500 can result in up to 5 years. The specific statute applied depends on the alleged conduct. Understanding these classifications is the first step in building a defense. A skilled criminal defense lawyer Montgomery County can analyze the charges against you.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website (Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 4-101). For court-specific procedures in Montgomery County, refer to the District Court of Maryland’s directory for the Rockville location.
Montgomery County Court Procedures
All misdemeanor trials and initial felony appearances in Montgomery County occur at the District Court at 191 East Jefferson Street in Rockville. The Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office prosecutes cases. A key local disposition is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation. Knowing how to beat criminal charges lawyer Montgomery County strategies often involve seeking a PBJ or a dismissal (Nolle Prosequi).
- Initial Appearance: A District Court commissioner sets bail after arrest.
- Bail Review: If detained, a hearing occurs within 24 hours.
- Arraignment: You are formally charged and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial: Your attorney negotiates with the State’s Attorney.
- Trial: Misdemeanors are heard in District Court; felonies go to Circuit Court.
- Disposition: Outcome may be dismissal, PBJ, probation, or trial verdict.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In Montgomery County, criminal charges carry a range of penalties from fines and probation to significant prison time, depending on the offense classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible for related DUI | Protective order, permanent record |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible suspension | Mandatory drug assessment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Maryland Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. In Montgomery County, we have a documented record of handling criminal matters. Our approach is informed by direct knowledge of local court procedures and prosecution strategies.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
In Montgomery County, our firm has a record of documented case results across all practice areas. Our team, which includes firm founder and former prosecutor Mr. Sris, works to seek favorable outcomes such as dismissals, reductions, or alternative dispositions like PBJ.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Montgomery County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Our Maryland location serves clients in Montgomery County. We are accessible via I-270, I-495, and Route 355 (Rockville Pike). We represent individuals in Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Montgomery 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 and is available for most misdemeanors at the District Court of MD for Montgomery County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Montgomery 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 in Montgomery County are expunged through the court where the case was heard, typically the District Court at 191 East Jefferson Street, Rockville.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Montgomery 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 the District Court in Rockville. Felonies go to Montgomery County Circuit Court. An attorney can guide you through each step.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties—second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. An attorney at the District Court of MD for Montgomery County can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, which are critical for protecting your future. Contact our team to discuss your specific criminal charge defense lawyer Montgomery County needs.
Related Legal Information
For more information, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Prince George’s County and Howard County. If you are facing other charges in Montgomery County, explore our services for DUI/DWI or family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal guidance regarding your case.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.