Criminal Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Options?
If you are facing a criminal charge in Prince George’s County, you need a strong defense. A criminal defense lawyer Prince Georges County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can protect your rights. We have handled numerous cases at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
Maryland Criminal Law and Your Charges
Maryland classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. For example, second-degree assault is a misdemeanor carrying up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine. Theft of property valued between $100 and $1,500 is also a misdemeanor with a maximum of 6 months incarceration. More serious charges like first-degree assault are felonies with penalties up to 25 years. The specific statute applied to your case determines the potential consequences.
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, visit the Maryland General Assembly website (mgaleg.maryland.gov). For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the District Court of Maryland’s Prince George’s County directory (courts.state.md.us).
Local Court Process in Prince George’s County
Your case will begin at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County located at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro. Misdemeanors are tried here, while felonies start here for an initial appearance before moving to Prince George’s County Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors from the State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County handle the case. Understanding local procedures is key to building an effective defense strategy.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail or releases you on personal recognizance.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and negotiates with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or a favorable plea.
- Trial or Disposition: If no plea agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court (misdemeanor) or a jury trial in Circuit Court (felony).
- Sentencing or PBJ: If found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence. If eligible, the judge may grant PBJ, placing you on probation without a conviction.
- Post-Trial Options: This includes filing an appeal or, after a waiting period, petitioning for expungement to clear your record.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In Prince George’s County, criminal charges carry a range of penalties from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences, depending on the offense classification and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no contact order |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible suspension | Mandatory drug assessment, probation |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent felony record, parole supervision |
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 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand that a criminal charge can upend your life, and we are committed to providing a vigorous defense. Our approach is direct and focused on achieving the best possible result for your situation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While we actively represent clients in Prince George’s County, these results span our practice across multiple states. For example, our team has secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in serious cases such as child pornography distribution charges in Maryland courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our senior attorney, Mr. Sris, brings additional decades of experience as a former prosecutor and firm founder. His strategic oversight is involved in complex cases, ensuring every client benefits from deep legal knowledge.
Local Legal Support in Prince George’s County
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.
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, and Hyattsville. We are accessible via major routes like I-495 and I-95. If you are searching for a criminal defense lawyer near Prince George’s County courthouse, we provide 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings at our Rockville location are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland 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 most misdemeanors and many felonies at the District Court. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
It depends on the disposition of your case. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. The petition is filed in the court where the case was heard, such as the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) a bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, and (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at the District Court. Felonies begin there but go to Prince George’s County Circuit Court for jury trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties, like second-degree assault (up to 10 years). An attorney can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal at the District Court. This is a critical step in how to beat criminal charges lawyer Prince George’s County strategies focus on.
How quickly should I contact a criminal defense lawyer Prince Georges County after an arrest?
Immediately. Contacting a lawyer early allows them to advise you during police questioning, work on securing your release, and begin building your defense strategy before critical deadlines pass. The sooner you have representation, the better protected your rights are.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
