Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Options?
A misdemeanor charge in Prince George’s County is a serious matter under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for charges like assault, theft, and drug possession at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
Maryland Misdemeanor Law and Penalties
In Maryland, misdemeanors are criminal offenses classified less severely than felonies but still carry substantial penalties. The specific statute governing misdemeanor classifications and penalties is found in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 4-101. Misdemeanors are tried in District Court, and a conviction can result in incarceration in a local or county jail (as opposed to a state prison for felonies).
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has built a practice on understanding both sides of the courtroom. This perspective is critical when building a defense strategy for your misdemeanor case in Upper Marlboro.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. For court-specific procedures, dockets, and location information, visit the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County website.
Local Court Process for Misdemeanors in Prince George’s County
Prince George’s County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials. The State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is the active use of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ). PBJ is a disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you successfully complete probation, you avoid a formal conviction on your record. This is a critical goal in many misdemeanor defenses.
- 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 challenge evidence and negotiates with the State’s Attorney for a dismissal, PBJ, or favorable plea agreement.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a District Court judge.
- Sentencing or Probation: If found guilty or if you plead guilty, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include PBJ.
- Post-Trial Options: This may include filing an appeal to the Circuit Court or, after a waiting period, petitioning for expungement.
Potential Penalties for Misdemeanors in Prince George’s County
In Prince George’s County, misdemeanor penalties vary by offense but can include jail time, significant fines, and a criminal record that affects employment and housing.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft ($100 – $1,500) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record; restitution |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order; no contact with victim |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible suspension | Mandatory drug assessment; probation |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
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. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive representation. For your misdemeanor defense, you need an attorney who understands the local prosecutors and judges. Our lead attorney for Maryland criminal defense, Kristen Fisher, is a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland. She uses her firsthand prosecutorial insight to build effective defense strategies and negotiate for outcomes like PBJ.
Case Results and Client Outcomes
While specific results in Prince George’s County are part of our firm-wide record, our approach is consistent: we seek the best possible resolution for each client. This can mean arguing for a dismissal at trial, negotiating a PBJ to avoid a conviction, or reducing a felony charge to a misdemeanor. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every client benefits from deep experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Misdemeanor Defense Lawyers
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, and Hyattsville. We are accessible via I-495, I-95, and Route 301. If you need a misdemeanor defense lawyer near me Prince George’s County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
Misdemeanor Defense in Prince George’s County: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’s 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 and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my misdemeanor record expunged in Prince George’s 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 Prince George’s County are expunged through the court where the case was heard. An attorney can advise if your specific disposition is eligible.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties—second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. An attorney at the District Court can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to secure without legal representation. Contacting a misdemeanor defense lawyer Prince Georges County early is crucial.
What happens after a misdemeanor arrest in Prince George’s County?
After arrest, you have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case then proceeds to arraignment and trial in District Court. Misdemeanor trials are typically heard by a judge, not a jury.
How can I find an affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Prince George’s County?
Many firms, including ours, offer flexible payment plans and initial consultations to discuss your case and fees. The cost of a lawyer should be weighed against the long-term cost of a conviction, which can include lost job opportunities and higher insurance rates. We strive to provide effective representation that is accessible.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Howard County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services for DUI/DWI in Prince George’s County or family law matters.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your misdemeanor charge.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.