Criminal Defense Lawyer in Somerset County, Maryland
If you are facing a criminal charge in Somerset County, Maryland, you need a strong defense. A criminal defense lawyer Somerset County can protect your rights at the District Court of MD for Somerset County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of handling criminal cases across Maryland, with firm-wide experience in over 4,739 case results. Contact us for a case review.
Maryland Criminal Law and Your Defense
Maryland classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). Misdemeanors like second-degree assault can carry up to 10 years in prison, while felonies like first-degree assault can lead to up to 25 years. The specific penalties depend on the charge and your prior record.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Somerset County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom to every case.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland criminal statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. For local court procedures and information, refer to the District Court of MD for Somerset County website.
Local Court Process in Somerset County
All criminal cases in Somerset County begin at the District Court located at 30512 Prince William Street in Princess Anne. Misdemeanors are tried there, while felonies are sent to Somerset County Circuit Court for jury trial. The State’s Attorney for Somerset County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), a disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail or releases you on personal recognizance.
- Arraignment: You are formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney files motions to challenge evidence and negotiates with the prosecutor for a dismissal, reduction, or favorable plea agreement like PBJ.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court (misdemeanor) or a jury trial in Circuit Court (felony), or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence which may include jail, probation, fines, and other conditions.
- Post-Trial Options: Your attorney can file an appeal or, after a waiting period, petition for expungement to clear your record.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In Somerset County, criminal charges carry a wide range of penalties, from fines and probation for minor misdemeanors to decades in prison for serious felonies.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft Under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no contact |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible suspension | Mandatory drug assessment |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State builds its case. This insight is invaluable when constructing a defense strategy for your criminal charge defense lawyer Somerset County needs. We know the local courts, including the District Court in Princess Anne, and how to effectively advocate for outcomes like PBJ, dismissals, or charge reductions.
Our firm-wide experience includes over 4,739 documented case results. While specific Somerset County results are part of our broader practice, our approach is consistent: we analyze every detail of your case to identify the strongest path forward. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, offering a unique advantage in financial or tech-related charges.
Local Presence for Somerset County Residents
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.
Our Maryland office represents clients at Somerset County courts. We serve clients from Princess Anne, Crisfield, Westover, Marion Station, and Deal Island. As a criminal defense lawyer near Somerset County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Somerset 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 and many felonies at the District Court of MD for Somerset County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Somerset 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 Somerset County are expunged through the court where the case was heard, either the District Court or Circuit Court.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Somerset County, Maryland?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) a bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at the District Court. Felonies go to Somerset County Circuit Court. Court costs range from approximately $22.50 to $55.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Somerset County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties, like second-degree assault carrying up to 10 years. An attorney at the District Court of MD for Somerset County can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to secure without legal representation.
How to beat criminal charges lawyer Somerset County?
It depends on the evidence. Strategies to challenge charges include filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, challenging witness credibility, proving mistaken identity, or negotiating for a pre-trial diversion program like PBJ. An experienced attorney analyzes the prosecution’s case for weaknesses.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and with related issues such as DUI defense in Somerset County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.