Machine Gun Offense Lawyer in Washington County, Maryland
A machine gun offense in Washington County, Maryland, is a serious criminal charge under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, carrying severe penalties including up to 25 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Washington County, with 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment only.
Understanding Machine Gun Offenses Under Maryland Law
Maryland law strictly regulates the possession, use, and transfer of machine guns. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, a machine gun is defined as any firearm that can shoot more than one shot automatically, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. Possessing a machine gun without proper federal and state licensing is a felony. The statute prohibits the possession, sale, transfer, or use of a machine gun for any purpose other than those authorized by law. Violations can result in imprisonment for up to 25 years, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record. The District Court of MD for Washington County handles initial appearances and misdemeanor trials, while the Washington County Circuit Court presides over felony jury trials. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | District Court of MD for Washington County | Maryland General Assembly — official site
Official Legal References
For the full text of Maryland’s machine gun laws, consult the official state resources:
Local Procedural Insights for Washington County
In the District Court of MD for Washington County, prosecutors routinely seek maximum penalties for machine gun offenses due to the serious nature of the charge. We have observed that early intervention is critical — the State’s Attorney for Washington County often files charges aggressively, but experienced counsel can negotiate for a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) or even a Nolle Prosequi in certain cases.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a machine gun offense lawyer near me Washington County immediately.
- Preserve all evidence and documentation related to the firearm.
- Attend all court hearings at the District Court of MD for Washington County.
- Work with your attorney to explore PBJ, Stet, or dismissal options.
- If charged as a felony, prepare for proceedings in Washington County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Machine Gun Offenses in Washington County
In Washington County, a machine gun offense carries severe penalties under Maryland law, including potential imprisonment, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Permanent criminal record; loss of firearm rights |
| Sale/Transfer of a Machine Gun | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Permanent criminal record; asset forfeiture possible |
| Use of a Machine Gun in a Crime | Felony | Up to 25 years (mandatory minimum may apply) | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Enhanced sentencing; permanent criminal record |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
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 team includes former prosecutors and experienced defense attorneys who understand the local courts and prosecutors in Washington County. We provide 24/7 availability and consultation by appointment only.
Your Defense Team
Our Track Record
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Washington County. 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.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Rockville is approximately 50 miles from the District Court of MD for Washington County, with access via I-70 and I-81. We serve as a machine gun offense lawyer near me Washington County, providing affordable machine gun offense lawyer Washington County services. Serving the communities of Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown. 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
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Washington County, Maryland?
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 Washington County (36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, MD 21740). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period).
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Washington 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 Washington County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Washington County).
What happens after a criminal arrest in Washington County, Maryland?
After arrest in Washington 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 Washington County (36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, MD 21740). Felonies go to Washington County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Washington 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 Washington County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal.
Related Resources
Last updated: 2026-05-02