Felon in Possession Lawyer Maryland, MD

When a conviction from the past intersects with firearm possession, the stakes can immediately heighten. Maryland law takes a firm stance against individuals with disqualifying criminal records who are found in possession of a firearm, and the potential consequences include incarceration and long-term restrictions on your rights. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we understand the anxiety that accompanies a felon-in-possession charge. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team guide clients through each stage of the process, from the initial bail review to trial or negotiated resolution, working to protect your future every step of the way. Reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Felon in Possession Means in Maryland

A felon-in-possession charge arises when an individual who has been convicted of a disqualifying offense is alleged to have knowingly possessed a firearm or ammunition. Maryland law prohibits certain individuals—including those with prior felony convictions, some misdemeanor domestic-violence convictions, and other prohibited categories—from possessing a regulated firearm. The state prosecutes these cases vigorously, and the consequences of a conviction can extend beyond incarceration to include fines, probation, and long-term firearms disabilities under both Maryland and federal law.

Cases alleging felon-in-possession are typically heard in Maryland’s Circuit Courts, as they are felony-grade charges. The path a case takes will depend on the circumstances of the alleged possession, the nature of the underlying disqualifying conviction, and how the evidence was obtained. Because the State’s Attorney in each jurisdiction has discretion over charging decisions, every case is unique. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team analyze every aspect of the prosecution’s evidence—from whether law enforcement had a lawful basis to stop or search to the chain of custody for any recovered firearm—to identify the strong $1 and to pursue favorable outcomes for the client.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Felon in Possession Cases

When someone contacts Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. about a felon-in-possession matter, our team’s first priority is to understand the full picture: the facts of the arrest, the status of the prior conviction, and any immediate concerns about pretrial release and the client’s ability to continue working and caring for their family. We immediately address bail and release conditions, because in Maryland the commissioner sets an initial bail amount after arrest, with a review hearing held promptly if the individual is detained. Our team works to present the strong case for release on personal recognizance or on reasonable conditions, so the client can return to their daily life while the case proceeds.

Once initial custody issues are resolved, our focus shifts to building the defense. This may involve challenging the legality of a stop or search, examining whether the client had actual or constructive possession of the firearm, evaluating whether the prior conviction actually qualifies as a disqualifying offense under the relevant statute, and exploring all procedural avenues to seek a dismissal or reduction of charges. While felon-in-possession is a serious charge, there are often opportunities to negotiate amendments, pursue alternative dispositions where legally available, or take the case to trial if the evidence does not support a conviction. Our Of Counsel team includes a former Assistant State’s Attorney who served in Maryland District and Circuit Courts, bringing more than a decade of firsthand prosecutorial insight into how the State constructs these cases and where the weaknesses may lie.

Counsel appearing on criminal matters at the local court in Maryland, MD.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing criminal defense since founding the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor himself, Mr. Sris brings an intimate understanding of courtroom dynamics and prosecutorial strategy to every case. He has testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), and he remains deeply committed to protecting the rights of the accused. Together with his Of Counsel team, Mr. Sris serves clients facing criminal allegations throughout Maryland, including Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Frederick County, and every other jurisdiction in the state. The team’s collective experience includes thousands of documented criminal cases, and they approach each matter with the dedication required to pursue a favorable resolution.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: June 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal definition of felon in possession of a firearm in Maryland?

A felon-in-possession charge in Maryland generally refers to the act of a person who has been convicted of a disqualifying offense knowingly possessing or controlling a firearm or ammunition. The specific statute and the elements the State must prove depend on the underlying conviction and the type of firearm. An experienced attorney can explain how the law applies to the particular facts of your case and evaluate whether any exceptions—such as a validly restored right to possess—may apply.

Do I need a lawyer if I’m charged with felon in possession in Maryland?

Yes. A felon-in-possession charge is a serious criminal matter that can result in incarceration, fines, and a lasting impact on your record and firearm rights. The legal process involves complex evidentiary and procedural rules, and the State will pursue the case actively. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney from your initial appearance through resolution gives you the trusted opportunity to challenge the evidence, explore all available defenses, and seek a favorable outcome.

Can a felon-in-possession charge be dropped or reduced in Maryland?

Every case is different, but there are circumstances where a felon-in-possession charge may be dismissed or reduced. This can happen if the prosecution’s evidence is weak, if the police violated your constitutional rights during the stop or search, if the prior conviction does not actually meet the statutory definition of a disqualifying offense, or if your attorney can negotiate a disposition through a plea agreement. An attorney can assess the strengths and weaknesses of the State’s case and advise you on the most realistic path forward.

What are the potential consequences of a felon-in-possession conviction in Maryland?

A conviction can lead to a term of incarceration, supervised probation, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Additionally, a felon-in-possession conviction triggers federal firearms disabilities, meaning you will likely be prohibited from ever possessing a firearm again under federal law. The specific penalties depend on the nature of the prior conviction, the circumstances of the offense, and your criminal history. It is essential to discuss your case with an attorney who can provide guidance based on the particular facts of your situation.

How does the Maryland court process work for felon-in-possession charges?

After an arrest, you will appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. If you are detained, a bail review hearing is held before a judge, usually within 24 hours. Felony charges are initially filed in District Court for a preliminary hearing, and if probable cause is found, the case is transferred to the Circuit Court for trial. Throughout this process, your attorney will review the evidence, file appropriate motions, and explore negotiations with the State’s Attorney. The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s calendar.

How do I find the right lawyer for a felon-in-possession charge in Maryland?

Look for an attorney who concentrates in criminal defense and has specific experience handling firearm-possession cases in Maryland courts. It is also valuable to work with a lawyer who understands the interaction between Maryland law and federal firearms disabilities, as the long-term collateral consequences of a conviction can be severe. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team offer a multi-state perspective and decades of combined criminal-defense experience. For a consultation on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Official resources:
Maryland General Assembly – Statutes |
Maryland Courts |
Maryland District Court Locations

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary. By appointment only. Reach our Rockville location at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients throughout Maryland.