Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland — How to Beat Your Charges
Facing criminal charges in Maryland requires immediate action from a skilled Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland. Charges like assault, theft, or drug possession can carry severe penalties, including jail time and fines. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense strategies, leveraging over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a documented history of favorable outcomes to protect your rights and future.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Criminal Law and Your Defense
Criminal offenses in Maryland are defined by the Maryland Code, Criminal Law Article. The state classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties ranging from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences. A conviction can impact your employment, housing, and professional licenses. A Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland from our firm understands these statutes and the procedures at local courts like the District Court of Maryland to build an effective defense.
- Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the State’s Attorney.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge improper evidence or procedural errors.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction of charges, or a favorable plea agreement.
- If necessary, prepare for and present a strong defense at trial before a judge or jury.
In Maryland, criminal penalties vary widely: a second-degree assault misdemeanor can bring up to 10 years in prison, while a felony theft over $100,000 can result in up to 25 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no-contact order |
| Possession of CDS (not marijuana) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Drug assessment, mandatory treatment |
| Driving on a Suspended License | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Further suspension | Additional points on driving record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Maryland Criminal Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a unique perspective to criminal defense. Our team includes former Maryland prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who understand how the State builds its cases. This insider knowledge is critical when developing a strategy for how to beat criminal charges lawyer Maryland clients need. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 cases with a high rate of favorable outcomes through dismissals, reductions, and not-guilty verdicts.
Case Results in Maryland
Our attorneys work to achieve the best possible result in every case. For example, our team has secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in serious charges such as promotion/distribution of child pornography in Baltimore County. In other cases, we have negotiated suspended sentences and probation for clients facing severe penalties.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm founder Mr. Sris, with his background as a former prosecutor and deep legal experience, supports complex case strategy. His multi-state practice and understanding of both state and federal systems provide an added layer of defense for our clients.
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.
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, and Frederick County. We are accessible via I-270 and I-495, near landmarks like Rockville Town Square and the Montgomery County Government Center. We are a criminal charge defense lawyer Maryland residents can rely on for representation near them in communities including Bethesda, Silver Spring, Columbia, and Annapolis.
Maryland Criminal Defense FAQs
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault: up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500: up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Montgomery County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal.
What is a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Maryland?
It is a disposition where the court finds you guilty but postpones entering a judgment. If you successfully complete probation, the case is dismissed without a conviction on your public record. It is often a key goal in negotiations for first-time offenders.
Can a criminal charge be expunged in Maryland?
It depends. Maryland’s expungement laws have expanded under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Many dismissals, not-guilty verdicts, and PBJs are eligible. Certain convictions may also be expunged after a waiting period. An attorney can review your record for eligibility.
What should I do if I am arrested in Maryland?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protect your rights during questioning and arraignment.
How can a former prosecutor help my defense?
A former prosecutor, like Kristen Fisher at our firm, knows how the State’s Attorney’s office evaluates evidence, negotiates pleas, and prepares for trial. This insight allows us to anticipate the prosecution’s strategy and identify weaknesses in their case early on.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Prince George’s County and with related legal issues such as DUI defense in Montgomery 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.