Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland — How to Beat Your Charges
A criminal charge in Maryland can lead to jail, fines, and a permanent record. A criminal defense lawyer Maryland from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how to challenge evidence and negotiate with the state. We have documented case results across Maryland. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Maryland Criminal Law Defined
Maryland criminal law is codified in the Maryland Code, Criminal Law Article. Offenses range from misdemeanors like theft under $1,500 to felonies like first-degree assault, which can carry up to 25 years in prison. The state also has specific statutes for drug crimes, sex offenses, and white-collar crimes. Understanding the exact statute you are charged under is the first step in building a defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal laws, refer to the Maryland Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures and forms can be found on the Maryland Judiciary website.
Local Court Process for Criminal Charges
In Maryland District Court, your first appearance is usually an arraignment where you enter a plea. For felonies, a preliminary hearing may follow in District Court before the case is sent to Circuit Court for trial. Prosecutors often make initial plea offers early. An experienced attorney can intervene at this stage to seek a dismissal or favorable plea deal before your case advances.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain discovery (evidence) from the State’s Attorney.
- We file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or PBJ.
- Prepare for trial if a satisfactory plea cannot be reached.
- If convicted, advocate for the most favorable sentence at sentencing.
Potential Penalties for Maryland Crimes
In Maryland, criminal penalties vary widely by offense classification, with misdemeanors carrying up to 10 years and felonies carrying decades in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Protective order, no contact |
| Possession of CDS (not marijuana) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension, drug assessment |
| Driving Under the Influence (DUI) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | 12 points on license, ignition interlock |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Maryland Criminal Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former Maryland prosecutors who know how cases are built from the inside. We combine over 120 years of legal experience. Our approach is to scrutinize every detail of the state’s evidence, from the legality of a traffic stop to the chain of custody for lab results. We know how to beat criminal charges lawyer Maryland strategies require early and aggressive action.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate over 93%. In Maryland, our team has achieved dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions for clients facing serious allegations. For example, we have secured nolle prosequi (dismissals) in child pornography distribution cases in Baltimore County. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Frederick County, and surrounding areas. We are accessible via I-270 and I-495. As a criminal defense lawyer Maryland near you, we provide representation in Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Columbia, Annapolis, and Frederick.
Maryland Criminal Defense FAQs
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery 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 at District Court of MD for Montgomery County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. 21 total documented case results across all practice areas (95% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s 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 at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
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 at District Court of MD for Howard County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am arrested in Maryland?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss your case with anyone but your attorney. Contact a criminal defense lawyer Maryland as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protecting your rights.
Can a criminal charge be expunged in Maryland?
It depends. Maryland’s expungement laws have expanded under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Acquittals, dismissals (nolle prosequi), and probation before judgment (PBJ) are generally eligible. Convictions for certain misdemeanors may be eligible after a waiting period. An attorney can review your record to determine eligibility.
Internal Links: Learn more about our Maryland criminal defense practice. We also serve clients in Prince George’s County and Howard County. For related legal issues, see our pages on Montgomery County DUI defense and Montgomery County family law.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.