Criminal Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Options?
If you are facing a criminal charge in Prince George’s County, you need a strong defense. A criminal defense lawyer Prince Georges County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can protect your rights. We have extensive experience in the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. Our firm-wide results include 4,739+ documented cases with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Criminal Law and Your Defense
Maryland classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies under the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Penalties vary widely. For example, second-degree assault is a misdemeanor carrying up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine. Theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is a felony punishable by up to 5 years. The specific statute applied to your case dictates the potential consequences. Understanding the law is the first step in building a defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website (mgaleg.maryland.gov). For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the District Court of Maryland’s Prince George’s County page (courts.state.md.us).
Local Court Process in Prince George’s County
The District Court at 14735 Main Street in Upper Marlboro handles all misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. Felony jury trials proceed in Prince George’s County Circuit Court. Prosecutors from the State’s Attorney’s office for Prince George’s County handle the cases. A key local procedural fact is the frequent use of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), a disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail or releases you on personal recognizance.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and negotiates with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or PBJ.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court (misdemeanors) or a jury trial in Circuit Court (felonies), or is resolved by a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or Probation: If found guilty, the judge imposes a sentence, which may include PBJ, probation, fines, or incarceration.
- Post-Trial Options: Your attorney can file an appeal or, after a waiting period, petition for expungement to clear your record.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In Prince George’s County, criminal penalties range from fines and probation to decades in prison, depending on the charge classification and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible for DUI-related | Protective order, loss of firearm rights |
| Theft ($1,500-$25,000) | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible suspension | Mandatory drug assessment, probation |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | None | Community service |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Maryland Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We focus on providing full representation in criminal matters. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate over 93%. We understand the local courts, including the procedures at the District Court in Upper Marlboro.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm actively practices in Prince George’s County. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and acquittals. For example, our attorneys have secured Nolle Prosequi (dismissals) in serious cases like child pornography distribution charges in Maryland courts. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, collaborating with Of Counsel attorneys like Kristen Fisher to build strong defenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Our Maryland location serves clients in Prince George’s County. We are accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, and other major highways. If you need a criminal defense lawyer near Upper Marlboro, Bowie, or College Park, we can help. We serve communities including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Criminal 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. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at the District Court. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Prince George’s 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 are expunged through the court where the case was heard, such as the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
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) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court. Felonies go to Prince George’s County Circuit Court. Court costs range from approximately $22.50 to $55.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties, like second-degree assault (up to 10 years). An attorney at the District Court can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, outcomes that protect your future far better than representing yourself.
How can a criminal charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County help me?
A lawyer can challenge the evidence against you, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced or dismissed charges, explain how to beat criminal charges lawyer Prince George’s County strategies, represent you at all hearings, and protect your rights throughout the process to seek the best possible outcome.
Related Legal Information
For more information, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Howard County. If you are facing other charges in Prince George’s County, explore our related services: DUI/DWI defense and family law.
Last verified: April 2026. 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.