Felony Defense Lawyer St Marys County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, is a serious criminal charge with potential for years in prison and lasting consequences. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, felonies like first-degree assault carry up to 25 years. As a felony defense lawyer St Marys County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Felonies in Maryland are the most serious category of crimes, prosecuted in Circuit Court. The state classifies offenses by potential penalties, with felonies carrying a minimum of one year of incarceration. The specific penalties depend on the statute violated, the circumstances of the offense, and your prior record. A conviction can result in lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and civil rights.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of a felony charge defense lawyer St. Mary’s County case and approach each one with the urgency and detailed preparation it demands.
Maryland Felony Law & St. Mary’s County Process
Felony cases in St. Mary’s County begin with an arrest or summons. The initial appearance and bail determination happen before a District Court commissioner. For a felony, the case is then forwarded to the State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County, who decides whether to seek an indictment. The case proceeds in the St. Mary’s County Circuit Court for all felony jury trials. Understanding the local procedure is critical, as timelines and strategic opportunities, like challenging evidence pre-trial, are governed by Maryland rules.
- Initial Arrest & Commissioner Hearing: You will be taken before a District Court commissioner who sets bail and schedules a preliminary hearing if you are detained.
- Preliminary Hearing (if applicable): The court determines if there is probable cause to believe a felony was committed and you committed it.
- Grand Jury Indictment or Information Filing: The State’s Attorney presents evidence to a grand jury to secure an indictment or files a charging document called an Information.
- Arraignment in Circuit Court: You are formally advised of the felony charges 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 or is resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Felony Charges in Maryland
In St. Mary’s County, a felony conviction can result in a state prison sentence of over one year, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| 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 record, firearm restrictions |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Mandatory minimums, driver’s license suspension |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Considered a crime of violence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony Defense
When facing a serious criminal charge lawyer St. Mary’s County, you need a team with depth and perspective. Our firm was founded by a former prosecutor, giving us unique insight into how the other side builds a case. We combine that with the aggressive defense approach of attorneys like Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results. We understand that a felony charge defense lawyer St. Mary’s County must be both a skilled negotiator and a prepared litigator, ready to challenge the state’s evidence at every turn.
Case Results & Firm Experience
Our approach is informed by a track record of favorable outcomes. While every case is unique, our firm-wide experience includes securing dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in complex cases. For example, our team has successfully defended against serious charges, achieving results like nolle prosequi (dropped charges) in child pornography distribution cases and negotiated resolutions that avoid mandatory minimum sentences.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex felony matters. His background as a former prosecutor and his multi-state practice bring a high-level perspective to case strategy.
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.
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout St. Mary’s County, including Leonardtown, Lexington Park, and California. We are accessible via major routes like Route 5 and Route 235. As a felony defense lawyer near St. Mary’s County courts, we provide dedicated representation for those facing serious charges.
Felony Defense FAQs in St. Mary’s County, MD
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
The key difference is the potential jail time. A misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of less than one year in a local jail. A felony is punishable by a term of more than one year in a state prison. The procedures and long-term consequences of a felony are also more severe.
Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in St. Mary’s County?
It depends. Through skilled negotiation with the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office, it is sometimes possible to reach a plea agreement where a felony charge is reduced to a misdemeanor. This often depends on the strength of the evidence, the defendant’s background, and the specific facts of the case.
What happens at a felony arraignment in St. Mary’s County Circuit Court?
At the arraignment, the judge will formally read the charges from the indictment or information. You will be asked to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. Your attorney will be present to advise you. This is also when the court may address bail conditions if they were set at the district court level.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge even if I plan to plead guilty?
Yes. An experienced felony defense lawyer St Marys County is essential even if you believe you will plead guilty. A lawyer can negotiate the terms of the plea, potentially reducing the charge or arguing for a favorable sentencing recommendation. Pleading guilty without counsel means you may face the maximum penalties without any mitigation.
How long does a felony case take in St. Mary’s County?
A felony case in Circuit Court typically takes 3 to 12 months from indictment to resolution, whether by plea or trial. Complex cases can take longer. The court must also comply with the Hicks date, which requires a felony jury trial to begin within 180 days of your first appearance in Circuit Court unless delays are granted.
For more information, see the official Maryland Statutes.
Internal Links: For more on Maryland criminal defense, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense hub. If you are in a neighboring area, consider our Anne Arundel County criminal defense lawyer page. For related legal issues in St. Mary’s County, see our St. Mary’s County DUI/DWI lawyer services.
Last verified: April 2026. The information on this page is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.
