Firearm by Felon Lawyer Frederick County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearm by felon charge in Frederick County, Maryland, is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 5-133(c) carrying up to 15 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for prohibited persons facing gun charges.
Maryland Law on Firearm Possession by a Prohibited Person
Maryland law strictly prohibits certain individuals from possessing, purchasing, or receiving regulated firearms. This includes anyone who has been convicted of a felony, a crime of violence, or a misdemeanor carrying a statutory penalty of more than two years. The statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 5-133, is a primary tool for prosecutors in Frederick County. A conviction is a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to 15 years and/or a fine of up to $25,000.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Frederick County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 5-133 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures for Frederick County cases are handled at the District Court of MD for Frederick County.
Defending a Firearm by Felon Charge in Frederick County
Defending a firearm by felon charge requires a detailed examination of the evidence and the specific circumstances of your case. In Frederick County, prosecutors at the District Court on West Patrick Street must prove you knowingly possessed a firearm and that you fall under a statutory prohibition. Common defense strategies challenge the legality of the search that found the weapon, question whether you had actual or constructive possession, or examine the validity of the underlying disqualifying conviction. A felon with firearm defense lawyer Frederick County can also explore procedural motions to suppress evidence or negotiate for a favorable disposition, such as a plea to a lesser non-disqualifying offense.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss the arrest details and your criminal history confidentially with your attorney.
- Evidence Review: Your lawyer will obtain discovery, including police reports, witness statements, and forensic reports, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Motion Practice: File pre-trial motions, such as a motion to suppress evidence if the search violated your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will engage in plea negotiations with the State’s Attorney or prepare for a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, advocate for a mitigated sentence. If wrongfully convicted, pursue all appellate options.
Potential Penalties for a Firearm by Felon Conviction
In Frederick County, a firearm by felon conviction is a felony carrying a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $25,000 fine, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years without parole for a second offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firearm Possession by Prohibited Person (First Offense) | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $25,000 | Permanent firearm prohibition | Loss of voting rights (while incarcerated), difficulty securing employment/housing |
| Firearm Possession by Prohibited Person (Subsequent Offense) | Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years without parole; up to 15 years | Up to $25,000 | Permanent firearm prohibition | Enhanced penalties, prolonged supervised release |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Firearm Charge Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Frederick County case and provide a focused, strategic defense.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
In Frederick County, our attorneys have achieved 11 documented criminal defense results, including 4 dismissals/not guilty verdicts and 3 charge reductions/amendments, reflecting a 64% favorable outcome rate for our local clients. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer Near Frederick County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges at the Frederick County District Court. We represent individuals from Frederick, Thurmont, Brunswick, Middletown, Emmitsburg, New Market, Urbana, and Walkersville.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Firearm by Felon Charges
What makes someone a “prohibited person” for gun possession in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland law prohibits several categories of people from possessing firearms, including those convicted of a felony, a crime of violence, or a misdemeanor punishable by more than 2 years. It also includes individuals subject to a final protective order, found not criminally responsible, or convicted of certain drug offenses.
Can a felon with firearm defense lawyer Frederick County get the charge reduced?
It depends on the evidence and your history. A skilled attorney may negotiate a plea to a lesser offense that does not carry the lifelong firearm prohibition, such as a misdemeanor like illegal possession of ammunition. Success depends on case specifics, evidence problems for the State, and your background.
Is “constructive possession” enough for a conviction?
Yes. Prosecutors do not need to prove the gun was in your hand. They can argue “constructive possession” if they show you knew of the firearm and had the ability and intent to control it, even if it was in a shared space like a car or home. This is a common point of legal challenge.
What is the first step after being charged with firearm by felon?
The first step is to secure legal representation immediately. Do not speak to investigators without your attorney. Your lawyer will review the charging documents, analyze the search and seizure, and begin building your defense strategy for your initial appearance in Frederick County District Court.
Are there any defenses to a firearm by felon charge?
Potential defenses include challenging an illegal search (Fourth Amendment violation), arguing lack of knowledge or possession, proving the firearm was inoperable, or questioning the validity of the prior disqualifying conviction. A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Frederick County can identify which defenses apply to your case.
Related Pages: For other legal issues in our service area, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub, or learn about Criminal Defense in Montgomery County. For related practice areas, see DUI/DWI Lawyer Frederick County.
Page 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.
