Prince George’s County Domestic Violence Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Domestic violence charges in Prince George’s County are serious, with second-degree assault carrying up to 10 years in jail under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. A conviction can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. As a domestic violence lawyer Prince Georges County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense.
Maryland Domestic Violence Laws and Penalties
In Maryland, domestic violence is not a single crime but a category of offenses occurring between family or household members. Key charges include assault, reckless endangerment, and violation of protective orders. These cases are prosecuted under the Maryland Criminal Law Article. The State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County handles these cases aggressively, often seeking protective orders and criminal penalties simultaneously.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s assault laws, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly site). For court procedures and forms, visit the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County website.
handling a Domestic Violence Case in Prince George’s County
The process begins with an arrest or the filing of a petition for a protective order. At the initial appearance, a District Court commissioner sets bail. The case then proceeds in District Court for misdemeanors or Circuit Court for felonies. The State’s Attorney’s office often pursues both criminal charges and a separate protective order case in family court, creating two parallel legal battles.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: Appear before a commissioner within 24 hours of arrest for bail determination.
- Protective Order Hearing: Attend a hearing for a temporary or final protective order, typically within 7 days.
- Arraignment: Enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest to the criminal charges.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions to suppress, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to trial or is resolved through a plea agreement, such as Probation Before Judgment (PBJ).
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties which may include jail, probation, fines, and counseling.
Potential Penalties for Domestic Violence Charges
In Prince George’s County, domestic violence penalties vary by charge but can include decades in prison, substantial fines, and loss of firearm rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Protective order, counseling |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Firearm prohibition, permanent record |
| Reckless Endangerment | Misdemeanor | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | Possible protective order |
| Protective Order Violation | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days (1st) / 1 year (subsequent) | Up to $1,000 / $2,500 | Contempt findings, extended order |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your 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 “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight aggressively for every client. We understand the high stakes of a domestic violence accusation—it affects your family, your home, and your future. A protective order lawyer Prince George’s County from our team can challenge the petition while a domestic abuse defense lawyer Prince George’s County handles the parallel criminal case, ensuring a coordinated strategy.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results are confidential, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In domestic violence matters, favorable outcomes can include case dismissals, acquittals, reductions to non-violent offenses, or dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) that avoid a permanent conviction. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every defense is thorough.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Domestic Violence Defense
Our Maryland location serves clients in Prince George’s County. We are familiar with the courthouse at 14735 Main Street in Upper Marlboro and the prosecutors who handle these sensitive cases.
Domestic violence lawyer near Prince George’s County: We represent clients from Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am accused of domestic violence in Prince George’s County?
Remain silent and contact a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the incident with the alleged victim or on social media. Comply with any temporary protective order to avoid additional charges. An attorney can guide you through the initial bail hearing and protective order process.
Can a domestic violence charge be dropped in Maryland?
It depends. While an alleged victim can express a desire to “drop charges,” the decision rests with the State’s Attorney. Prosecutors often proceed without the victim’s cooperation, especially if there is other evidence. A skilled domestic violence lawyer Prince Georges County can negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal or favorable reduction.
What is the difference between a criminal case and a protective order case?
They are separate. A criminal case is brought by the state and can result in jail time and a criminal record. A protective order case is a civil matter filed by an individual seeking protection; violation of that order is a separate crime. You need defense for both proceedings.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a domestic violence charge?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you successfully complete probation, no conviction is entered on your public record. It is a potential outcome for many first-time offenses and is a key goal for a domestic abuse defense lawyer Prince George’s County.
Do I need a lawyer for a protective order hearing?
Yes. A protective order hearing moves quickly and has serious consequences, including loss of access to your home and children. A protective order lawyer Prince George’s County can cross-examine witnesses, present evidence in your favor, and argue against the issuance of a final order.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges, we also handle DUI defense and family law matters in Prince George’s County.
More Maryland Locations: Our domestic violence lawyers also serve clients in Montgomery County and Howard County.
Statewide Resource: For more information on Maryland criminal defense, visit our Maryland criminal lawyer hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.