Felony Defense Lawyer Charles County — Protecting Your Future
A felony charge in Charles County, Maryland, is a serious criminal charge with potential for years in prison and lasting consequences. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, felonies like first-degree assault carry up to 25 years. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing felony charges.
Maryland Felony Charges and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Charles County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, a felony is a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year. The severity is defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Felonies are prosecuted in Circuit Court, while initial appearances and misdemeanors are handled in District Court. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings extensive experience to these complex cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland criminal laws, refer to the Maryland General Assembly statutes. Court procedures and locations for Charles County can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the District Court of MD for Charles County.
handling a Felony Case in Charles County
Charles County District Court handles initial appearances and sets bail for felonies, while Charles County Circuit Court conducts felony jury trials. The State’s Attorney for Charles County prosecutes these cases. A critical local disposition is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which can avoid a formal conviction for certain eligible offenses.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail or conditions of release.
- Preliminary Hearing: If held without bail, a hearing is held within 30 days to determine if there is probable cause for the felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: The case proceeds to Charles County Circuit Court for a formal arraignment where you enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence (discovery) and files pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Maryland guidelines, which may include prison time, fines, and probation.
Potential Penalties for Felonies in Charles County
In Charles County, a felony conviction can result in a state prison sentence of over one year, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent crime record |
| CDS Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory minimums, asset forfeiture |
| Burglary | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, parole supervision |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track includes 4,739+ documented case results. We assign attorneys with specific, relevant backgrounds to each matter. For your serious criminal charge lawyer Charles County needs, former Maryland prosecutor Kristen Fisher provides critical insight into how the State’s Attorney builds cases.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific results in Charles County are part of our active practice, every case is unique. Our approach involves a collaborative team, often including firm founder and former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a strategic perspective from decades of practice across multiple states.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Charles County Felony Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges at the Charles County courts in La Plata. We provide representation for communities throughout the area, including Waldorf, Indian Head, White Plains, Bryans Road, and Hughesville.
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.
Felony Defense in Charles County: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Charles 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 of MD for Charles County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my felony record expunged in Charles County, Maryland?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). The Justice Reinvestment Act also expanded expungement for many non-violent convictions. Felony cases in Charles County are expunged through the Circuit Court where the case was heard. Eligibility is complex and requires legal analysis.
What happens after a felony arrest in Charles County?
After a felony arrest: (1) Initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. (2) A bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained. (3) A preliminary hearing within 30 days if not indicted. (4) The case is forwarded to Charles County Circuit Court for arraignment and either a plea or jury trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Charles County?
Yes. Maryland felonies carry severe penalties, including decades in prison. An attorney at Charles County Circuit Court can protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate for reduced charges or PBJ, and provide a defense at trial. The consequences of a felony conviction are lifelong.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for a felony?
In Charles County, the District Court handles initial appearances, bail, and preliminary hearings for felonies. All felony trials, however, are held before a jury in the Charles County Circuit Court. The District Court judge cannot convict or sentence you on a felony charge.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services as a Charles County DUI lawyer or family law attorney.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current guidance on your felony defense in Charles County.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.