Criminal Defense Lawyer in Montgomery County, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
In Montgomery County, Maryland, criminal charges carry serious penalties under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented case results in Montgomery County. A Child Trafficking Lawyer Montgomery County can help protect your rights and future. Contact us 24/7.
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Maryland Law
Maryland classifies criminal offenses under the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). This code defines crimes from theft and assault to drug offenses and child trafficking. The penalties depend on the classification of the offense, ranging from civil citations to felony sentences of up to 25 years for first-degree assault. A Child Trafficking Lawyer Montgomery County understands these statutes and how they apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Maryland criminal statutes, visit the Maryland Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly). For court procedures and forms, see the District Court of MD for Montgomery County website.
Insider Perspective on Montgomery County Criminal Cases
Montgomery County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. The State’s Attorney for Montgomery County prosecutes these cases. Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is a critical disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record.
- Initial Appearance: You appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail or conditions of release.
- Bail Review: If detained, a bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours in District Court.
- Arraignment: You are formally charged and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanors are tried in District Court; felonies go to Circuit Court. Negotiate a PBJ or dismissal.
- Expungement: After acquittal, dismissal, or PBJ (3-year wait), file for expungement to clear your record.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Montgomery County
In Montgomery County, criminal penalties range from civil fines to multi-year prison sentences depending on the charge classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Theft ($100-$1,500) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution required |
| Theft ($1,500-$25,000) | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution required |
| Drug Possession (non-marijuana) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $1,000 | Driver’s license suspension | Probation, drug treatment |
| CDS Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension | Mandatory minimum sentencing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
In Montgomery County, our team includes former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney Kristen Fisher, who provides firsthand prosecutorial insight into how the State’s Attorney for Montgomery County builds cases. This experience allows us to identify procedural weaknesses and negotiate favorable dispositions like PBJ or dismissal.
Case Results in Montgomery County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 total documented case results across all practice areas in Montgomery County, with a 95% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, PBJ dispositions, and charge reductions for clients facing criminal charges at the District Court of MD for Montgomery County.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Location Serving Montgomery County
Distance: Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Montgomery County courts, including the District Court of MD for Montgomery County at 191 East Jefferson Street, Rockville, MD 20850.
Near Me: Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Montgomery County? We are your local option.
Neighborhoods Served: Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, Chevy Chase.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Montgomery County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County are expunged through the court where the case was heard.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Montgomery County, Maryland?
After arrest, you have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. If detained, a bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court of MD for Montgomery County. Felonies go to Montgomery County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. An attorney at District Court of MD for Montgomery County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between a Stet and Nolle Prosequi in Maryland?
A Stet places your case on an inactive docket for up to one year. If you have no new charges, the case may be dismissed. A Nolle Prosequi means the State’s Attorney drops the charges entirely. Both are eligible for expungement.
How long do I have to wait to expunge a PBJ in Montgomery County?
You must wait 3 years from the date of the PBJ disposition before filing for expungement in Montgomery County. During this period, you must not be convicted of any new criminal offense. After expungement, the record is sealed from public view.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. 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.