Federal insider trading involves buying or selling securities based on material, non-public information in violation of a duty of trust or confidence. Under 15 U.S.C. § 78j(b) and SEC Rule 10b-5, this conduct is illegal and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. Maximum penalties for individuals include 20 years imprisonment and a $5 million fine. For entities, fines can reach $25 million. Federal sentencing guidelines apply, and there is no parole in the federal system.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | 15 U.S.C. § 78j(b) (Cornell LII)
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
For official statutory text, see 15 U.S.C. § 78j(b) (Cornell LII — official site) and SEC Rule 10b-5 (SEC.gov — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, prosecutors routinely pursue insider trading cases with extensive investigative resources from the FBI and SEC. We have observed that early engagement with counsel before indictment can materially affect outcomes.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents, emails, and records related to the trades.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
- Prepare for potential grand jury subpoenas or target letters.
- Understand that federal sentencing guidelines apply and there is no parole.
In Kent County, Maryland, insider trading carries penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment and $5 million fines for individuals under 15 U.S.C. § 78j(b) / SEC Rule 10b-5.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insider Trading (Individual) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5 million | Potential SEC sanctions, bar from securities industry | Forfeiture, restitution, supervised release |
| Insider Trading (Entity) | Federal Felony | N/A | Up to $25 million | Potential SEC sanctions, bar from securities industry | Forfeiture, restitution, corporate probation |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our firm has extensive experience in federal criminal defense, including insider trading and securities fraud cases.
Kristen M. Fisher, Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, Of Counsel (independent attorney working with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.), joined the firm in 2010 and dedicates 75% of her practice to litigation. She represents clients in Maryland state and federal courts, including the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Bar admissions: Maryland; Virginia.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Kent County and across Maryland. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 60 miles from the District Court of MD for Kent County (103 N. Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620), with access via Route 213 and Route 301. We serve as an insider trading lawyer near Kent County. Serving the communities of Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, Betterton. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
(888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Insider Trading in Kent County, Maryland
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Kent County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Kent County (103 N. Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Kent 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 Kent County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Kent County). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Kent County, Maryland?
After arrest in Kent County: (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 District Court of MD for Kent County (103 N. Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620). Felonies go to Kent County Circuit Court. Bail set by District Court commissioner at initial appearance; Maryland permits pretrial release on personal recognizance, bail, or conditions of release; bail review hearing in District Court within 24 hours if detained; public defender eligibility based on income; court costs: approximately $22.50-$55. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Kent 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 Kent 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.
How does a Maryland lawyer defend against insider trading charges?
Defense strategies for insider trading in Maryland may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 15 U.S.C. § 78j(b) / SEC Rule 10b-5 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing insider trading charges in Maryland?
If facing insider trading charges in Maryland, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Maryland law require prompt action.
What are the penalties for insider trading in Maryland?
Penalties for insider trading in Maryland depend on the specific charges, prior record, and circumstances. Under 15 U.S.C. § 78j(b) / SEC Rule 10b-5, consequences may include fines, jail time, probation, or other sanctions. Consult a Maryland federal criminal attorney for case-specific guidance.
Learn more about our Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland services. We also serve Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County and Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County. For related practice areas, see our Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County page.
Page Last verified: April 2026