Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer in Kent County, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
A misdemeanor conviction in Kent County can carry up to 10 years in jail and create a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for misdemeanor charges at the District Court of MD for Kent County. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results.
Maryland Misdemeanor Law and Penalties
Maryland classifies misdemeanors into two categories: those with a maximum penalty of more than 6 months (like second-degree assault) and those with a maximum of 6 months or less (like petty theft). The specific penalties are defined under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). A misdemeanor defense lawyer Kent County understands that even a “minor” charge can have major consequences, including jail time, fines, and a criminal record that affects employment and housing.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Kent County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm combines over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on the strategic defense of misdemeanor charges in local courts.
Official Legal Resources
- Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland statutes)
- District Court of MD for Kent County website
Kent County Misdemeanor Court Process
In Kent County, all misdemeanor trials are held at the District Court at 103 N. Cross Street in Chestertown. The State’s Attorney for Kent County prosecutes these 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 are 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 State’s Attorney for dismissal, PBJ, or a favorable plea.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a District Court judge.
- Sentencing or PBJ: If found guilty, the judge imposes sentence. If granted PBJ, you are placed on probation without a conviction.
- Post-Disposition: Your attorney can advise on expungement eligibility, which may be available after 3 years for PBJ cases.
Potential Penalties for Misdemeanors in Kent County
In Kent County, misdemeanor penalties vary by offense but can include substantial jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects future opportunities.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Permanent conviction | Protective order, loss of firearm rights |
| Theft ($100 – $1,500) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | Permanent conviction | Restitution, difficulty finding employment |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | Permanent conviction | Community service |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Permanent conviction | Mandatory drug assessment, driver’s license suspension |
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. With a combined 120+ years of attorney experience, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. For Kent County misdemeanor cases, our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State’s Attorney builds cases.
Case Results and Client Outcomes
While specific Kent County results are integrated into our firm-wide count, our documented outcomes across Maryland include dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), case placements on the inactive docket (Stet), and PBJ dispositions that avoid convictions. Firm-wide, we have documented 4,739+ case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides an advantage in cases involving financial evidence.
Local Service for Kent County Residents
Our Maryland office represents clients at Kent County courts. We serve communities including Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton. If you are searching for a misdemeanor defense lawyer near me Kent County, we are accessible for consultations.
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 is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Kent 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 at the District Court of MD for Kent County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Kent 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 Kent County are expunged through the court where the case was heard. An attorney can review your eligibility.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Kent County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties like jail time and fines. An attorney at the District Court of MD for Kent County can negotiate for PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to secure without legal representation.
What happens after a misdemeanor arrest in Kent County?
After arrest, you have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. Your case then proceeds to arraignment and pre-trial proceedings. Misdemeanors are tried at the District Court in Chestertown. An attorney can guide you through each step and protect your rights.
How can I find an affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Kent County?
Contact our firm for a consultation. We offer clear fee structures and can discuss payment options. The cost of a lawyer often pales in comparison to the long-term cost of a misdemeanor conviction on your record and future opportunities.
Internal Resources
- Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Montgomery County, MD
- DUI/DWI Lawyer in Kent County, MD
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current guidance regarding your misdemeanor charge in Kent County.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.