Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Options?
A misdemeanor charge in Maryland can carry significant penalties, including jail time and fines. As a misdemeanor defense lawyer Maryland, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong representation for charges like assault, theft, and disorderly conduct. Our team, including former Maryland prosecutor Kristen Fisher, has secured favorable outcomes in cases across Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Howard Counties.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Misdemeanor Law
In Maryland, misdemeanors are criminal offenses classified less severely than felonies but still carry serious consequences. The specific penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Common misdemeanors include second-degree assault, theft under $1,500, and certain drug possession charges. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses deep knowledge of these statutes to build defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal laws, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly site). For court procedures and locations, visit the Maryland District Court website.
Local Court Process for Misdemeanors
Montgomery County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is a critical disposition — it avoids a formal conviction on the defendant’s record and is available for many offenses. An affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Maryland can be key to securing this outcome.
- Receive a summons or be charged following an arrest.
- Attend an initial appearance/arraignment where charges are read.
- Your attorney will review evidence and file pre-trial motions.
- Negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a PBJ, stet, or reduced charge.
- Proceed to a bench trial before a judge if no agreement is reached.
- If convicted, explore expungement options after the waiting period.
Potential Penalties for Maryland Misdemeanors
In Maryland, misdemeanor penalties vary by offense but can include jail time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, loss of firearm rights |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible driver’s license suspension | Mandatory drug assessment, criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State builds its cases. We have a documented record of achieving dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing misdemeanor charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, maintains a selective caseload to provide focused attention on complex matters.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a track record of achieving positive results. In Montgomery County alone, we have 21 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 95% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. For example, our team, including Mr. Sris, has successfully secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in serious cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Maryland Misdemeanor Defense Lawyers
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Maryland, including Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Howard Counties. We are accessible via I-270, I-495, and Route 355. If you are searching for a misdemeanor defense lawyer near me Maryland, we serve communities like Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Columbia, and Ellicott City.
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
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault: up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500: up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Montgomery County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. 21 total documented case results across all practice areas (95% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Maryland?
It depends on the charge and your history. PBJ is a unique Maryland disposition where the court finds you guilty but postpones entering a judgment. If you successfully complete probation, no conviction is entered on your public record. This is a primary goal for a misdemeanor defense lawyer Maryland in many cases.
Can a misdemeanor be expunged in Maryland?
Yes, under the expanded Justice Reinvestment Act. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, stets, nolle prosequis, and PBJs (after a 3-year waiting period). Some non-violent misdemeanor convictions are also now eligible. An attorney can file the petition for you.
What’s the difference between District and Circuit Court for a misdemeanor?
Almost all misdemeanor trials are held in the District Court, which has no jury. If you request a jury trial, your case is transferred to the Circuit Court. A misdemeanor defense lawyer near me Maryland can advise on the strategic pros and cons of this choice.
How much does a misdemeanor defense lawyer cost in Maryland?
Costs vary based on the charge’s complexity and potential trial needs. Many firms, including ours, offer flexible payment plans. Investing in an affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Maryland can save you from fines, jail time, and a permanent record.
Page last updated and verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.
