Felony Defense Lawyer Kent County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Kent County, Maryland, is a serious criminal charge prosecuted in Kent County Circuit Court, carrying potential prison sentences of over one year and fines up to $25,000 under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing these charges.
Understanding Felony Charges in Maryland
In Maryland, felonies are the most serious category of crimes, classified by the potential sentence. A felony is any offense punishable by death or imprisonment in a state correctional facility. The Maryland Criminal Law Article (Md. Code, Crim. Law) defines specific felony offenses, their elements, and their penalties. Felonies in Kent County are prosecuted by the State’s Attorney and tried before a jury in the Kent County Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Kent County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Maryland Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly website). For court-specific procedures in Kent County, visit the District Court of MD for Kent County website.
handling a Felony Case in Kent County
Kent County District Court handles initial appearances and bail hearings for felonies, while Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials. The State’s Attorney for Kent County prosecutes these cases. A critical early step is the bail review hearing, which occurs within 24 hours if a defendant is detained. Understanding the local court’s procedures and the tendencies of the prosecution is vital for building an effective defense strategy.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Preliminary Hearing (if applicable): For some felonies, a hearing is held in District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Grand Jury Indictment or Information: The State presents evidence to a grand jury for an indictment, or files a charging document called an “Information.”
- Arraignment in Circuit Court: You are formally read the charges and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions and exchanges evidence with the prosecution to challenge the state’s case.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Felonies in Kent County
In Kent County, a felony conviction can result in a state prison sentence of over one year, substantial fines, and long-term consequences that affect employment, housing, and civil rights.
| Offense Examples (Md. Code) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 (Crim. Law § 7-104(g)) | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
| First-Degree Assault (Crim. Law § 3-202) | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Violent crime record, firearm restrictions |
| Controlled Substance Distribution (Crim. Law § 5-607) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | Mandatory minimums, driver’s license suspension |
| Burglary in the First Degree (Crim. Law § 6-202) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Strike under “Three Strikes” law |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony 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 track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the high stakes of a felony charge defense lawyer Kent County case and provide dedicated, strategic representation focused on protecting your future.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results in Kent County are part of our ongoing practice, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to favorable outcomes. We have achieved dismissals, reductions, and acquittals in serious cases. Firm founder Mr. Sris provides strategic oversight on complex matters, ensuring every client benefits from deep experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Felony Defense Lawyer Serving Kent County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges in Kent County. We are accessible to communities including Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton.
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.
Felony Defense in Kent County: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
The key difference is the potential sentence. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 90 days to 10 years in a local jail, while a felony is punishable by over one year in a state prison. Felonies also carry more severe long-term consequences for your record and rights.
Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Kent County?
Yes, it is possible. Through skilled negotiation with the State’s Attorney’s Office, a felony charge defense lawyer Kent County may secure a reduction to a misdemeanor, often as part of a plea agreement to a lesser-included offense. This can significantly reduce potential penalties and future impacts.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for a felony?
A preliminary hearing is held in District Court to determine if there is probable cause to believe a felony was committed and that you committed it. It is not a trial, but a critical stage where your attorney can challenge the state’s evidence and potentially get charges dismissed before they move to Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Kent County?
Absolutely. The consequences of a felony conviction are severe and lifelong. An experienced felony defense lawyer Kent County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and provide you with the best possible defense in Circuit Court. The public defender is available if you qualify financially.
How long does a felony case take in Kent County?
It depends on the case’s complexity. A clear case may resolve in 3-6 months, while a complex case going to trial can take a year or more. The Hicks date (180-day speedy trial rule) applies from your first appearance in Circuit Court if you are detained.
Internal Resources: For more information on criminal defense in Maryland, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Anne Arundel County. If you are also dealing with related issues, consider our Kent County DUI defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your serious criminal charge lawyer Kent County needs.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.
