Criminal Defense Lawyer in Washington County, Maryland — What Is Your Best Defense?
In Washington County, Maryland, criminal charges carry serious penalties — second-degree assault carries up to 10 years under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Former prosecutors on staff provide strong defense at District Court of MD for Washington County.
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Maryland Law
Maryland classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). Misdemeanors include offenses like second-degree assault (up to 10 years) and theft under $1,500 (up to 6 months). Felonies include first-degree assault (up to 25 years) and drug distribution (up to 20 years). The District Court of MD for Washington County handles misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. Washington County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Washington County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Review the official Maryland Criminal Law Code (CR Article) for complete statutory definitions. Visit the District Court of MD for Washington County website for court procedures, filing information, and local rules.
Insider Knowledge: Washington County Criminal Court Process
Washington County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. The State’s Attorney for Washington County prosecutes cases here. Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is a critical disposition — it avoids a formal conviction on your record.
- Initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail.
- Bail review hearing within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Arraignment where you enter a plea.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery phase.
- Trial in District Court for misdemeanors or preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Sentencing or disposition (PBJ, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, or conviction).
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges in Washington County
In Washington County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from civil citations to 25 years in prison depending on the offense 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 |
| First-degree assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Protective order possible |
| Drug possession (non-marijuana) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $1,000 | Driver’s license suspension | Drug treatment evaluation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Washington County Criminal Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State’s Attorney builds cases in Washington County. We provide case-specific strategies for each client’s situation.
Case Results in Washington County and Beyond
SRIS actively practices in Washington County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing criminal charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Washington County Criminal Defense Services
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Washington County courts, accessible via I-81, I-70, Route 11, Route 40, and Route 65. We serve Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Hagerstown? Our team provides strong representation for clients throughout Washington County.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — 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 About Criminal Defense in Washington County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Washington 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. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Washington 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.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Washington 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 of MD for Washington County.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Washington County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. An attorney can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
How long do I have to wait to expunge a PBJ in Washington County?
It depends. The waiting period for expungement of a Probation Before Judgment is 3 years from the date the probation ends. After that period, you can file for expungement through the District Court of MD for Washington County.
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.