Disorderly Conduct Lawyer in Charles County, Maryland — What Are Your Defense Options?
Disorderly conduct in Charles County is a misdemeanor under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 10-201, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for public disturbance charges at the District Court of MD for Charles County (200 Charles Street, La Plata). Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results.
Maryland Disorderly Conduct Law
Maryland law defines disorderly conduct as intentionally causing public alarm, nuisance, or disturbance. The statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 10-201, covers acts like fighting, making unreasonable noise, using offensive language in public, or obstructing pedestrian or vehicular traffic. The charge is often filed alongside other offenses like trespassing or assault.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Charles County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 10-201. For court procedures, visit the District Court of MD for Charles County website.
Charles County Court Process for Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct cases in Charles County are misdemeanors handled at the District Court. Prosecutors from the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office often offer Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for first-time offenders, which avoids a formal conviction. A skilled public disturbance defense lawyer Charles County can negotiate for a PBJ or dismissal.
- Receive a citation or summons with a court date for the District Court of MD for Charles County.
- Consult with a disorderly conduct lawyer Charles County to review the police report and witness statements.
- Appear at the initial hearing for arraignment and discuss potential resolutions with the State’s Attorney.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for a bench trial before a District Court judge.
- If convicted, present mitigation for sentencing or file an appeal to the Charles County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Charles County
In Charles County, disorderly conduct carries a maximum penalty of 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, plus court costs.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | Criminal record, possible probation, difficulty with employment/housing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Charles County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our approach to disorderly conduct cases focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence that your conduct was intentional and caused a public disturbance. We examine police reports, witness statements, and the specific location of the incident.
Case Results
Our firm has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. For disorderly conduct, favorable outcomes often involve negotiation for a PBJ, which avoids a conviction, or a disorderly conduct dismissal lawyer Charles County securing a dismissal of charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Charles County Disorderly Conduct Defense
Our Maryland location serves clients in Charles County. We represent individuals at the District Court of MD for Charles County in La Plata. We serve La Plata, Waldorf, Indian Head, White Plains, Bryans Road, and Hughesville.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
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 Charles 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, including disorderly conduct, at the District Court of MD for Charles County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Charles 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 Charles County are expunged through the court where the case was heard, typically the District Court of MD for Charles County.
Do I need a lawyer for a disorderly conduct charge in Charles County?
Yes. While a misdemeanor, a conviction carries up to 60 days in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. An attorney at the District Court of MD for Charles County can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without legal representation.
What happens after a disorderly conduct arrest in Charles County?
After an arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who may set bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case will then proceed to arraignment and potentially a trial at the District Court of MD for Charles County on 200 Charles Street in La Plata.
Is disorderly conduct a felony in Maryland?
No. Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor under Maryland law. However, it can be charged alongside more serious offenses, and a conviction can negatively impact employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Related Practice Areas: Criminal Defense Lawyer Charles County | Assault & Battery Lawyer Charles County
Other Locations: Disorderly Conduct Lawyer Montgomery County | Disorderly Conduct Lawyer Prince George’s County
State Hub: Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer
Page last verified: 2026-04. 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.