Felony Defense Lawyer in Prince George’s County, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Prince George’s County is a serious criminal charge prosecuted under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, carrying potential prison time and long-term consequences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for felony charges in Prince George’s County. Our firm, founded in 1997, has former prosecutors on staff who understand the local system. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Understanding Felony Charges in Maryland
In Maryland, felonies are the most serious category of crimes, classified by statute and carrying penalties of imprisonment for more than one year. The specific penalties depend on the offense classification within the Maryland Criminal Law Article. For example, theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is a felony punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Maryland Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly website). For court-specific procedures in Prince George’s County, visit the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County website.
Local Court Process for a Felony Charge in Prince George’s County
Felony cases in Prince George’s County begin with an initial appearance and bail review in District Court but are ultimately tried in the Prince George’s County Circuit Court. The State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County prosecutes these cases. An experienced felony defense lawyer in Prince George’s County can handle the critical stages from the District Court commissioner’s hearing through potential Circuit Court jury trial. Early intervention is key to challenging the State’s evidence and exploring pre-trial resolutions.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see 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 State presents evidence to a grand jury for an indictment, or files a charging document called an “Information.”
- Arraignment in Circuit Court: You are formally advised of the felony charges in Prince George’s County Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and engages in plea negotiations with the State’s Attorney’s Office.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Felony Charges
In Prince George’s County, a felony conviction can result in state prison time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense Example | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, permanent record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Felony/Misdemeanor* | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Protective orders, loss of rights |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Variable | Mandatory minimums, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Second-degree assault can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony under Maryland law.
Our Firm’s Background in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who provide insider perspective on how the State builds its cases.
Case Results & Client Outcomes
SRIS actively practices in Prince George’s County. While specific local case counts are proprietary, firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes (dismissals, reductions, not guilty verdicts). These results span Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. For a serious criminal charge in Prince George’s County, having a lawyer with this depth of experience is critical. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex felony matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Felony Defense Lawyers
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges in Prince George’s County. We are accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, and other major highways.
Felony defense lawyer near Prince George’s County serving Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes, PBJ is a 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 many felonies at the 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 felony record expunged in Prince George’s 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 some non-violent convictions. Felony cases in Prince George’s County are expunged through the court where the case was heard, typically the Circuit Court.
What happens after a felony arrest in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
After a felony arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) preliminary hearing or grand jury proceeding, (4) arraignment in Circuit Court, (5) pre-trial motions and negotiations, (6) trial or disposition. The Hicks date (180-day speedy trial rule) applies to felony jury trials.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Prince George’s County?
Yes. Maryland felonies carry severe penalties, including years in prison. An attorney can challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights at every stage in Prince George’s County Circuit Court. The stakes are too high to proceed without counsel.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for a felony?
In Prince George’s County, the District Court handles initial appearances, bail, and preliminary hearings for felonies. The Circuit Court is where felony trials are held before a jury. All felony trials and sentencings occur in Circuit Court.
Internal Links: For more information, see 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 Prince George’s County DUI defense services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For current advice on your felony charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.