Criminal Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Options?
A criminal charge in Prince George’s County, Maryland, is a serious matter with potential jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State’s Attorney builds cases. We have documented results in Prince George’s County District Court and Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies under the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Misdemeanors like second-degree assault can carry up to 10 years in prison, while felonies like first-degree assault can lead to 25 years. The specific penalties depend on the statute violated and the circumstances of your case. Understanding the exact charge is the first step in building a defense.
For official state law, refer to the Maryland Code (official Maryland General Assembly site). Court procedures and forms are available from the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County website.
- Initial Appearance: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail or releases you on personal recognizance.
- Bail Review: If detained, a bail review hearing must be held in District Court within 24 hours.
- Arraignment: You are formally advised of the charges 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 reduced charge.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court (misdemeanors) or a jury trial in Circuit Court (felonies).
- Sentencing & Expungement: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence. For eligible outcomes like PBJ, you may petition for expungement after a waiting period.
In Prince George’s County, criminal penalties range from 90 days for minor theft to 25 years for first-degree assault, plus fines up to $2,500 and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible for DUI-related | Protective order, no contact |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory drug assessment |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We understand the high stakes in Prince George’s County courtrooms and provide focused, strategic defense.
Our team, led by Kristen Fisher with support from firm founder Mr. Sris, has actively handled cases in Prince George’s County. Firm-wide, we have achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results include dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), charges placed on the inactive docket (Stet), Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), and charge reductions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 Maryland location serves clients at the Prince George’s County courts in Upper Marlboro. We are a dedicated criminal charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County for residents in Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland. Knowing how to beat criminal charges lawyer Prince George’s County strategies require local insight, which our former prosecutor provides.
Criminal Defense in Prince George’s County, MD: 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. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at the District Court. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal 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. The petition is filed in the court where the case was heard, such as the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a commissioner for bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment to hear charges, (4) pre-trial negotiations or motions, (5) trial. Misdemeanors are tried in District Court; felonies go to Prince George’s County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties like jail time. An attorney can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County, protecting your record and future.
How does a former prosecutor help my defense in Prince George’s County?
A former prosecutor, like our Of Counsel attorney Kristen Fisher, knows how the State’s Attorney’s office evaluates and prepares cases. This insight is invaluable for challenging evidence, negotiating favorable dispositions, and developing effective trial strategies specific to Prince George’s County courts.
For more information on criminal defense in Maryland, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Howard County. In Prince George’s County, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and family law.
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.