Prince George’s County Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Options?
A misdemeanor in Prince George’s County is a criminal offense under Maryland law, such as second-degree assault or theft under $1,500, carrying penalties up to 10 years in jail. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro).
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Misdemeanor Law and Penalties
In Maryland, misdemeanors are criminal offenses classified less severely than felonies but still carry significant consequences. The specific penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Common misdemeanors in Prince George’s County include second-degree assault, theft under $1,500, disorderly conduct, and certain drug possession charges. While often called “minor” crimes, a conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to these cases. Our background provides insight into how the State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County builds cases, which we use to develop effective defense strategies.
Official Legal Resources
- Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly)
- District Court of MD for Prince George’s County website
Local Court Process for Misdemeanor Charges
Prince George’s County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials. A key local procedural fact is the routine use of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ). PBJ is a critical disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation. Prosecutors in Upper Marlboro may offer PBJ for first-time or non-violent offenses. An experienced misdemeanor defense lawyer Prince Georges County can often negotiate for this outcome.
- 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 (guilty, not guilty, no contest).
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney files motions to challenge evidence and negotiates with the State’s Attorney for a dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a District Court judge.
Potential Penalties for Misdemeanors in Prince George’s County
In Prince George’s County, misdemeanor penalties vary by offense but can include substantial jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, loss of firearm rights |
| Theft $100 – $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, civil liability |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | None | Community service |
| Possession of CDS (personal use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible driver’s license suspension | Mandatory drug assessment, probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Misdemeanor Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide experience includes over 4,739 documented case results. We assign attorneys with specific, relevant backgrounds to each case. For Maryland misdemeanor defense, this means you benefit from attorneys who know the local courts and procedures intimately.
In complex cases, Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice, collaborates on strategy. His background in accounting and information systems provides an advantage in cases involving financial or technical evidence.
Case Results and Client Outcomes
While every case is unique, our approach aims for the best possible result. In Prince George’s County, favorable outcomes can include outright dismissal of charges (Nolle Prosequi), placement on the inactive docket (Stet), or obtaining a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) to avoid a conviction. We have successfully defended clients against charges such as assault, theft, and drug possession.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Misdemeanor Defense Lawyers
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland. We are accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, and Route 4.
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 — meetings by appointment only. Contact us for an affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Prince George’s County.
Frequently Asked Questions: Misdemeanor Defense in Prince George’s County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’s 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 Prince George’s County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my misdemeanor record expunged in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
It depends. 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 Prince George’s County are expunged through the court where the case was heard. Eligibility depends on the disposition and the specific offense.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s 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 Prince George’s County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to secure without representation.
What happens after a misdemeanor arrest in Prince George’s County?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) pre-trial negotiations and motions, (5) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County in Upper Marlboro.
How can I find a misdemeanor defense lawyer near me Prince George’s County?
You can contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. We represent clients throughout the county from our Maryland office. For immediate assistance, call our 24/7 line at (888) 437-7747 to speak with a team member about your case and schedule a consultation.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page, or read about related issues for DUI defense in Prince George’s County. We also serve neighboring areas like Montgomery County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your misdemeanor charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.