Domestic Violence Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Domestic violence charges in Prince George’s County are prosecuted aggressively under Maryland law, carrying severe penalties that can include jail time, protective orders, and a permanent criminal record. A domestic violence lawyer Prince Georges County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build a defense to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
Maryland Domestic Violence Laws & Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, domestic violence is not a single crime but a category of offenses committed against a person with whom the accused has a specific relationship. These relationships include current or former spouses, cohabitants, parents of a shared child, or relatives related by blood, marriage, or adoption. Common charges include assault, reckless endangerment, stalking, and violation of a protective order. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting provides a unique advantage in cases involving financial allegations.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s domestic violence statutes, refer to the Md. Code, Family Law Article § 4-501 et seq. (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures and forms for Prince George’s County can be found at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County website.
Prince George’s County Court Process for Domestic Violence Cases
In Prince George’s County, domestic violence cases typically begin in the District Court at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro. The process is fast-moving. A victim can seek an interim protective order from a commissioner, followed by a temporary protective order hearing before a judge, usually within 48 hours. A final protective order hearing is scheduled within 7 days. Concurrently, any related criminal charges (like assault) proceed on a separate track. The State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County prosecutes these criminal charges, and outcomes can range from dismissal to probation or incarceration.
- Initial Arrest or Summons: If police believe probable cause exists for a domestic assault, an arrest is likely. You will have an initial appearance before a commissioner.
- Protective Order Hearings: Attend the final protective order hearing. This is a civil proceeding but has major implications for custody, firearm possession, and where you can live.
- Arraignment on Criminal Charges: If criminal charges are filed, you will be arraigned in District Court, enter a plea, and receive a trial date.
- Discovery & Negotiation: Your attorney will obtain police reports, 911 calls, and witness statements. Many cases are resolved through negotiation for a favorable disposition like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ).
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court. Felony-level domestic violence charges are tried in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Domestic Violence in Prince George’s County
In Prince George’s County, a domestic violence-related second-degree assault is a misdemeanor carrying up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine, while a protective order violation can result in up to 90 days in jail for a first offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault (Domestic) | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Protective order, loss of firearm rights, impact on child custody. |
| Reckless Endangerment | Misdemeanor | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | Often charged alongside assault. |
| Protective Order Violation (1st) | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $1,000 | Contempt findings, extended protective orders. |
| Stalking | Misdemeanor/Felony | Up to 5 years (1st) / Up to 10 years (2nd) | Up to $5,000 / Up to $10,000 | Possible permanent no-contact order. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Domestic Violence Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a powerful combination of experience and insight to domestic violence defense in Prince George’s County. Founded in 1997, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who understands the tactics used by the State’s Attorney’s office because she used them herself. This inside perspective is invaluable for developing effective counter-strategies, challenging evidence, and negotiating for reduced charges or alternative dispositions like PBJ, which can avoid a permanent conviction.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific Prince George’s County domestic violence results are confidential, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with over 93% favorable outcomes (dismissals, reductions, not guilty verdicts). In domestic cases, favorable outcomes often involve securing a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) to avoid a conviction, having charges reduced to a non-domestic offense, or achieving a dismissal when the evidence is weak or the complainant recants. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Domestic Violence Lawyer Near Prince George’s County
Our Maryland office represents clients at the Prince George’s County District Court in Upper Marlboro. We serve communities throughout the county, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
Domestic Violence Defense FAQs in Prince George’s County
What should I do if I am served with a protective order in Prince George’s County?
Yes, contact a protective order lawyer Prince George’s County immediately. You must obey all terms of the order. The final hearing is usually within 7 days. This is your only chance to contest the order before a judge. An attorney can help you prepare evidence and cross-examine the petitioner.
Can domestic violence charges be dropped if the victim wants to?
It depends. In Maryland, the State’s Attorney, not the victim, files criminal charges. While a victim’s reluctance can influence the prosecutor, they may proceed without the victim’s cooperation using other evidence like 911 calls, police observations, or witness statements. A domestic violence lawyer Prince Georges County can negotiate with the prosecutor based on this.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a domestic violence charge?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you successfully complete probation, you avoid a formal conviction on your record. PBJ is available for many misdemeanors, including some domestic assaults, but may not be allowed for certain offenses or if you have a prior PBJ.
Will a domestic violence charge affect my child custody case?
Yes, almost certainly. A finding of domestic violence, whether through a criminal conviction or a final protective order, is a major factor in Maryland child custody determinations. The court’s primary concern is the child’s safety and best interests. A strong defense is crucial to protect your parental rights.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time domestic violence misdemeanor?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor domestic assault carries a potential 10-year prison sentence and creates a permanent record that affects employment, housing, and firearm rights. An experienced domestic abuse defense lawyer Prince George’s County can often negotiate for a PBJ or other outcome that minimizes long-term damage.
Related Legal Help in Prince George’s County
If you are facing domestic violence allegations, you may also need guidance in related areas. Our firm provides representation for divorce and child custody matters often intertwined with these cases. For other criminal allegations, see our general criminal defense page. For a broader view of our Maryland practice, visit our Maryland criminal defense hub.
Last verified: 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.