In Kent County, Maryland, criminal charges carry serious penalties — second-degree assault carries up to 10 years under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Contact a Statutory Rape Lawyer Kent County today.
Understanding Criminal Law in Kent County, Maryland
Maryland criminal law is codified in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). This statute defines all criminal offenses from misdemeanors to felonies. The District Court of MD for Kent County handles misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. Felony jury trials proceed to Kent County Circuit Court. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Kent County understands these court divisions and how they affect your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Kent County | Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly)
Official Government Resources
Insider Knowledge: Kent County Criminal Court Process
Kent County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. The State’s Attorney for Kent County prosecutes all cases. Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is a critical disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record.
- Initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail conditions.
- Bail review hearing within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Arraignment where you enter a plea.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery exchange.
- Trial in District Court for misdemeanors or preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Sentencing or disposition hearing.
In Kent County, Maryland, criminal penalties range from civil citations to 25 years in prison depending on the offense classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-degree assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | $2,500 | None | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | $500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | $10,000 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| First-degree assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | $5,000 | None | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Drug possession (non-marijuana) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | $1,000 | Driver’s license suspension | Criminal record, possible treatment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Kent County Criminal Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Our team includes Kristen Fisher, a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland who prosecuted cases in both District and Circuit Courts. Her firsthand prosecutorial experience provides significant insight into case construction and courtroom dynamics. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Kent County from our firm understands local court procedures.
Case Results
SRIS actively practices in Kent County — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. A Statutory Rape Lawyer Kent County from our firm works diligently on your behalf.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Kent County Criminal Defense Services
Distance: Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Kent County courts, accessible via Route 213, Route 301, and Route 20.
Near-Me: Criminal defense lawyer near Kent County or near Chestertown.
Neighborhoods Served: Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, Betterton.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Kent County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Kent 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 Kent County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Kent County, Maryland?
Yes, 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 Kent County are expunged through the court where the case was heard.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Kent County, Maryland?
After arrest in Kent County: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court of MD for Kent County. Felonies go to Kent County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Kent County, Maryland?
Yes, many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. An attorney at District Court of MD for Kent County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between a Stet and Nolle Prosequi in Kent County?
A Nolle Prosequi means the State’s Attorney drops the charges permanently. A Stet places the case on an inactive docket — the charges remain pending but inactive. After a Stet, the case can be expunged after 3 years if no further action is taken.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.