Felony Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious criminal charge prosecuted in Circuit Court, carrying potential prison time and long-term consequences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for felony cases in Annapolis and surrounding communities. Our team, led by former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, understands the high stakes and builds a case-specific defense strategy from the start.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, felonies are the most serious category of crimes, defined by statutes in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. These offenses, such as first-degree assault, theft over $1,500, and drug distribution, are punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility, often for more than one year. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to these complex cases.
Maryland Felony Law and Penalties
The official Maryland statutes governing felony classifications and penalties are found in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly). Felony cases in Anne Arundel County are prosecuted by the State’s Attorney’s Office and heard in the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court after an initial appearance in District Court.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felonies, a hearing is held to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest) in Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains all evidence from the prosecution and files pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Maryland sentencing guidelines and arguments from both sides.
In Anne Arundel County, felony penalties vary widely: theft $1,500-$25,000 is a felony up to 5 years; first-degree assault carries up to 25 years; drug distribution can lead to up to 20 years imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Firearm restrictions, violent offender registry |
| Drug Distribution (CDS) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Driver’s license suspension possible | Asset forfeiture, federal implications |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Permanent felony record, enhanced penalties for future crimes |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has a documented record of handling complex cases. Firm-wide, the attorneys have over 120 years of combined experience and have handled 4,739+ case results. For felony charges in Anne Arundel County, having a defense team that understands the local court procedures and prosecution tactics is vital. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, maintains a strategic oversight role on serious cases, collaborating with lead attorneys like Kristen Fisher to ensure a strong defense.
SRIS actively practices in Anne Arundel County — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary. In past representations, the firm’s attorneys have secured outcomes such as case dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), reduced charges, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing serious allegations.
Local Defense for Anne Arundel County Felony Charges
Our Maryland office represents clients at Anne Arundel County courts. Contact us for a felony charge defense lawyer in Anne Arundel County. We serve clients in Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Felony Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County FAQ
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes, PBJ is a 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 many felonies at Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my felony record expunged in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). The Justice Reinvestment Act also expanded expungement for some non-violent felony convictions. Eligibility is complex and requires a legal analysis of your specific case and final disposition.
What happens after a felony arrest in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
After a felony arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner for bail, (2) a bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) a preliminary hearing, and (4) the case is sent to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court for arraignment and potential trial. The process is governed by strict timelines, including the Hicks date for a speedy trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland felonies carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. A serious criminal charge lawyer in Anne Arundel County is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and present a defense at trial. The procedural details of Circuit Court require experienced legal guidance.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for a felony?
All felony cases begin in District Court for an initial appearance and bail. A preliminary hearing may be held there. However, only the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court has the authority to conduct felony jury trials, accept guilty pleas, and impose felony sentences. The District Court handles misdemeanors only.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. If you are facing other charges, our firm provides representation for related matters such as DUI/DWI and family law in Anne Arundel County.
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.