Felony Defense Lawyer Howard County — Protecting Your Future
A felony conviction in Howard County, Maryland, carries severe penalties, including years in prison and a permanent criminal record. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, felonies like first-degree assault can lead to up to 25 years imprisonment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing serious criminal charges. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results.
Maryland Felony Charges and Howard County Law
In Maryland, a felony is a serious criminal offense punishable by more than one year in state prison. The specific penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Howard County felonies are prosecuted by the State’s Attorney’s Office and are heard in the Howard County Circuit Court after an initial appearance in the District Court. The classification and potential sentence vary greatly depending on the specific charge, such as theft over $1,500, drug distribution, or violent crimes like robbery or assault.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the high stakes of a felony case. We approach each case with the urgency and detailed preparation it demands.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures and information for the Howard County Circuit Court, where felony trials are held, can be found on the Maryland Judiciary website.
Howard County Felony Court Process
Felony cases in Howard County follow a multi-step process beginning at the District Court. The key local procedural fact is that while the District Court handles initial appearances and bail reviews, felony jury trials are conducted in the Howard County Circuit Court. Prosecutors from the State’s Attorney for Howard County office must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Early intervention by a skilled felony charge defense lawyer Howard County is critical to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights at every stage.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Preliminary Hearing (if applicable): For some felonies, a hearing is held in District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Grand Jury Indictment or Information: The prosecution presents evidence to a grand jury, which issues an indictment, or files a charging document called an information.
- Arraignment in Circuit Court: You are formally read the charges in Howard County Circuit Court and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and exchanges evidence with the prosecution.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court, or your attorney negotiates a potential plea agreement to reduce charges or penalties.
Potential Penalties for Felony Convictions in Maryland
In Howard County, a felony conviction carries severe consequences including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and civil rights.
| Offense (Examples) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500 – $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, permanent record |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Violent crime designation |
| Controlled Substance Distribution (Non-Marijuana) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Mandatory minimums possible, asset forfeiture |
| Robbery | Felony | Up to 15 years | Varies | Considered a crime of violence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Howard County Felony Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide. Our approach is built on thorough investigation, aggressive advocacy, and strategic negotiation. We understand that a felony charge threatens your freedom, reputation, and future, and we fight to secure the best possible outcome.
Case Results & Firm Experience
While specific local case counts are proprietary, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our capability in handling serious charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements in complex cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on serious felony matters, bringing his experience as a former prosecutor and decades of practice to bear.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Howard County Felony Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Howard County, including Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel. We represent individuals at the Howard County Circuit Court and are accessible via I-95, Route 29, and Route 32.
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 Howard County: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
The primary difference is the potential jail time. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail, while a felony carries a potential sentence of more than one year in state prison. Felonies are more serious crimes with longer-lasting consequences on your record.
What happens after a felony arrest in Howard County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner for bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if detained. The case then proceeds to a preliminary hearing (for some felonies) before moving to the Howard County Circuit Court for arraignment and potential trial. Having a lawyer from the start is crucial.
Can a felony charge be reduced or dismissed in Howard County?
Yes. An experienced felony charge defense lawyer Howard County can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction to a misdemeanor or seek a dismissal by challenging the evidence. Outcomes like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), Nolle Prosequi (dropped charges), or Stet (inactive docket) are possible depending on the case facts.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a felony?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you successfully complete probation, a formal conviction is not entered on your record. PBJ is available for many felonies and is a powerful tool to avoid the long-term impacts of a conviction.
How long does a felony case take in Howard County?
It depends on the case complexity. A clear felony case in Howard County Circuit Court can take 3 to 12 months from arrest to resolution. Complex cases involving extensive evidence or federal charges can take a year or more. The Hicks date (180-day speedy trial rule) applies to felony jury trials.
If you are facing a serious criminal charge in Howard County, do not wait. Contact a Maryland criminal defense lawyer from our firm immediately. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Anne Arundel County. For other legal needs in Howard County, explore our services for DUI defense or 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.