Felony Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious criminal charge with potential for years in prison and lasting consequences. Under Maryland law, felonies like theft over $1,500, first-degree assault, and drug distribution carry severe penalties. A felony defense lawyer Anne Arundel County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense.
Maryland Felony Charges and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, a felony is a crime punishable by more than one year in a state correctional facility. The specific classification and penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. For example, first-degree assault is a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison. Theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is also a felony, carrying a potential sentence of up to 5 years. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to these high-stakes cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website (mgaleg.maryland.gov). Court procedures and local rules for Anne Arundel County can be found on the Maryland Courts website (courts.state.md.us).
Local Court Process for a Felony Charge in Anne Arundel County
Facing a felony charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County clients need to understand the local process. Your case will begin at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County (251 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis) for an initial appearance and bail review. The case is then forwarded to the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court for potential indictment and jury trial. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes these cases.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Preliminary Hearing (if applicable): If not indicted, a hearing is held within 30 days to determine if there is probable cause to proceed.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You are formally charged in Anne Arundel County Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Pretrial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to challenge evidence and negotiates with prosecutors.
- Trial or Plea: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing occurs under Maryland’s guidelines, which may include prison, probation, and fines.
Potential Penalties for Felony Charges
In Anne Arundel County, a felony conviction can result in a state prison sentence, substantial 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, asset forfeiture |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who provides critical insight into how the other side builds a case. We approach every serious criminal charge lawyer Anne Arundel County residents trust with a focus on the specific details of your case and the local court procedures. Our collaborative approach means your case benefits from multiple perspectives.
Case Results and Approach
While every case is unique, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In Anne Arundel County, we actively defend clients against felony charges. For instance, Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, brings a strategic, detail-oriented approach to complex felony cases, often identifying procedural or evidentiary issues that can lead to reduced charges or dismissals.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Felony Defense Lawyer Near Anne Arundel County
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges in Anne Arundel County. We are accessible via major highways including I-97, Route 50, and Route 2. We serve communities throughout the county, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
FAQs: Felony Defense in Anne Arundel County
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
The main difference is the potential jail time. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in a local jail, while a felony can result in more than one year in a state prison. Fines and long-term consequences are also typically more severe for felonies.
Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Anne Arundel County?
It depends. Prosecutors may agree to reduce a felony charge to a misdemeanor through plea negotiations, especially for first-time offenders or when evidence is weak. An experienced felony defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can advocate for a reduction, which significantly limits potential penalties and future consequences.
What happens at a bail review hearing for a felony?
If you are detained after your initial appearance, a bail review hearing is held in District Court within 24 hours. A judge will reconsider the bail amount and conditions. Your attorney can argue for your release on personal recognizance, a lower bail, or less restrictive conditions based on your ties to the community and the nature of the charges.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge even if I plan to plead guilty?
Yes. A lawyer is essential. An attorney can negotiate the terms of the plea, potentially securing a lesser charge, a favorable sentencing recommendation, or arguing for alternative sentencing like probation before judgment (PBJ) to avoid a formal conviction on your record.
How long does a felony case take in Anne Arundel County?
A felony case in Anne Arundel County Circuit Court typically takes between 3 to 12 months from initial charge to resolution, but complex cases can take longer. The Hicks date rule requires the state to bring you to trial within 180 days of your first appearance if you are detained, or if you demand a speedy trial.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing a DUI charge in Anne Arundel County, our attorneys can also help. For other legal matters, see our page on family law in Anne Arundel County.
Other Locations: We also serve clients in neighboring jurisdictions like Montgomery County and Prince George’s County.
Back to Hub: Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current advice regarding your felony charge.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.
