Prince George’s County Record Sealing Lawyer — Can Your Record Be Cleared?
A criminal record in Prince George’s County can block jobs, housing, and licenses. Maryland law, including the Justice Reinvestment Act, allows expungement for Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), dismissals, and many non-violent convictions. As a record sealing lawyer Prince Georges County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results in the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Maryland Record Sealing & Expungement Law
Record sealing in Maryland is governed by the state’s expungement statutes, primarily Md. Code, Criminal Procedure Article § 10-101 et seq. Expungement is the legal process of removing police and court records from public view. The Justice Reinvestment Act significantly expanded eligibility, allowing for the expungement of many non-violent misdemeanor and felony convictions after a waiting period. The process is handled in the court where the case was originally heard.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Maryland’s expungement laws, review the official Maryland statutes (Md. Code, Criminal Procedure Article § 10-101). Procedural information and forms for Prince George’s County can be found on the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County website.
Prince George’s County Expungement Process
In Prince George’s County, the expungement petition is filed with the District Court clerk’s office at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro. The State’s Attorney’s office has 30 days to object. A key local procedural fact is that prosecutors in Prince George’s County routinely object to expungement petitions for certain violent offenses or cases with multiple convictions, making a strong legal argument critical. The court’s decision hinges on statutory eligibility and the petitioner’s rehabilitation.
- Determine your eligibility under Maryland law (e.g., PBJ after 3 years, acquittal, qualifying conviction).
- Obtain your official criminal history report (CCH) from the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System.
- Complete the Petition for Expungement of Records (DC/CR 78 form) and file it with the Prince George’s County District Court clerk.
- Serve the petition on the State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County and any other required agencies.
- Await the 30-day objection period. If no objection, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.
- If granted, ensure all agencies (police, courts, state repositories) comply with the expungement order.
Penalties of a Public Record & Benefits of Sealing
In Prince George’s County, an unsealed criminal record can result in denial of employment, professional licenses, housing, and educational opportunities, creating long-term barriers.
| Record Type | Public Accessibility | Typical Consequences | Expungement Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conviction | Fully public in background checks | Job denial, license rejection | Record removed from public view |
| Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) | Visible but shows no conviction | May still cause employer concern | Eligible for expungement after 3 years |
| Acquittal/Dismissal (Nolle Prosequi) | Public record of charge | Implies guilt to some reviewers | Eligible for expungement immediately |
| Stet Docket | Public record of inactive charge | Case can be reopened for 3 years | Eligible for expungement after 3 years |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Record Sealing Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex post-conviction matters like expungement. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we pursue every legal avenue to clear your name. We understand the significant impact a clean record has on your future and provide diligent, case-specific representation.
Record Sealing Case Experience
Our firm has extensive experience handling the expungement process in Maryland courts. We have successfully petitioned for clients with dispositions including Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), nolle prosequi, stet dockets, and qualifying convictions under the expanded Justice Reinvestment Act. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. 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 cases. His multi-state practice and background in accounting and information systems offer a unique advantage in cases involving financial records or complex procedural histories.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Record Sealing Lawyers
Our Maryland office in Rockville serves clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland. We are accessible via I-495, I-95, and Route 301.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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 — meetings by appointment only. We are a record sealing lawyer near me Prince George’s County for residents seeking accessible legal help.
Record Sealing & Expungement FAQs
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. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period).
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in Prince George’s County are expunged through the court where the case was heard. Eligibility hinges on the specific disposition and waiting periods.
How long does the expungement process take in Prince George’s County?
Typically 3 to 6 months. The timeline includes filing the petition, a mandatory 30-day waiting period for the State’s Attorney to object, and potential court scheduling. If unopposed, some petitions are granted without a hearing. Contested petitions require a hearing, which can add time.
Will an expungement completely erase my record?
Yes, for most purposes. An expungement order requires police, courts, and state agencies to remove records from public view. You can legally state you were not arrested or charged for the expunged matter. Certain government agencies, like law enforcement, may retain limited access.
Do I need a lawyer for record sealing in Maryland?
While not legally required, an attorney is highly recommended. The process involves complex forms, strict deadlines, and legal arguments. A record sealing lawyer Prince Georges County can handle objections from the State’s Attorney and present the strongest case for “interests of justice” to the judge, significantly improving the chance of success.
How much does an affordable record sealing lawyer Prince George’s County cost?
Costs vary based on case complexity (number of charges, objections). Many firms, including ours, offer flat fees or payment plans for expungement services. The investment often outweighs the long-term costs of a public record on employment and housing opportunities. Contact us for a specific consultation.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Howard County. If you are facing other legal issues, explore our services for DUI defense or family law in Prince George’s County.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.