Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland — How to Beat Your Criminal Charges
A criminal charge in Maryland can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent record. A skilled criminal defense lawyer Maryland from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight for dismissal or reduced charges. Our firm, founded in 1997, has former prosecutors on staff who understand how to build a strong defense. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Criminal Law and Your Defense
Criminal offenses in Maryland are defined by the Maryland Code, Criminal Law Article. Charges range from misdemeanors like theft under $1,500 to felonies like first-degree assault, which can carry up to 25 years in prison. The specific penalties depend on the statute violated and your prior record. A criminal defense lawyer Maryland analyzes the charges, the evidence against you, and the procedures of the local District or Circuit Court to develop your defense strategy.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland criminal laws, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. For court procedures and locations, visit the Maryland Judiciary website.
Local Court Process for Criminal Cases
In Maryland District and Circuit Courts, the process after an arrest typically involves an initial appearance, a preliminary hearing (for felonies), and formal arraignment. Prosecutors often make initial plea offers early. An experienced attorney knows that challenging the probable cause statement or filing pre-trial motions to suppress evidence can be key to how to beat criminal charges lawyer Maryland strategies seek to employ.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain discovery (evidence) from the State’s Attorney.
- We review the evidence for constitutional violations or weaknesses.
- We negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or a favorable plea.
- If no fair offer is made, we prepare for and go to trial.
- If convicted, we advocate for the most favorable sentence possible.
In Maryland, criminal penalties vary widely: a misdemeanor can mean up to 10 years in jail, while a felony can result in decades of imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no-contact order |
| Drug Possession (not marijuana) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible driver’s license suspension | Drug assessment, treatment |
| DUI | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year (first offense) | Up to $1,000 | Revocation up to 6 months | Ignition interlock, alcohol education |
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 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we aggressively defend clients across Maryland. Of Counsel attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, provides critical insight into how local prosecutors build their cases.
Case Results in Maryland
Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. In Baltimore County, our team secured a nolle prosequi (dismissal) for a client charged with promoting/distributing child pornography. In another case, we negotiated a resolution for a possession of child pornography charge resulting in a fully suspended sentence and probation. Firm founder Mr. Sris collaborates with our Maryland team on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer
Our Rockville location serves Montgomery County and all of Maryland. We are accessible via I-270 and I-495. If you need a criminal defense lawyer near Maryland courthouses, contact us. We serve communities including Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Columbia, Annapolis, and Frederick.
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.
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.
What should I do if I am arrested in Maryland?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with your criminal defense lawyer Maryland. Your attorney can advise you on the next steps, including bail hearings and challenging the charges.
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. An attorney can review your record and determine if you qualify for expungement.
How does a former prosecutor help my defense?
A former prosecutor, like Of Counsel Kristen Fisher, knows how the State builds cases, what evidence they prioritize, and how they negotiate. This insight is invaluable for challenging weak cases and negotiating favorable outcomes, which is a key part of how to beat criminal charges lawyer Maryland tactics.
What is the difference between District and Circuit Court in Maryland?
District Court handles misdemeanors and some felonies with penalties under 3 years. Circuit Court handles more serious felonies, jury trials, and appeals from District Court. Your criminal defense lawyer Maryland will know which court your case is in and the specific procedures to follow.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.