Criminal Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — What Are Your Options?
A criminal charge in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, offenses range from misdemeanors to felonies. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County. Our firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Criminal Law and Your Defense
Criminal charges in Maryland are defined by the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. The law classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties varying by the specific offense and circumstances. For example, second-degree assault is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 10 years in prison, while theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is a felony carrying up to 5 years. The Justice Reinvestment Act has also expanded eligibility for expungement, allowing for the clearing of certain non-violent conviction records. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how prosecutors build cases from the inside.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Maryland criminal statutes, visit the official Maryland General Assembly website. For information about court procedures in Anne Arundel County, refer to the District Court of Maryland’s Anne Arundel County directory.
Local Court Process in Anne Arundel County
All misdemeanor trials and initial felony appearances for Anne Arundel County occur at the District Court at 251 Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis. Felony jury trials are handled by the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is the strategic use of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ). PBJ is a critical disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for many offenses. Knowing how to use PBJ versus seeking a dismissal (Nolle Prosequi) or a Stet is a core part of an effective defense strategy in this jurisdiction.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Attend the initial appearance or arraignment at the District Court.
- Your attorney will review discovery and file pre-trial motions if necessary.
- Negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a favorable disposition like PBJ, dismissal, or reduction.
- Prepare for trial if a satisfactory plea cannot be reached.
- If convicted, explore post-trial motions and appeal options.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In Anne Arundel County, criminal penalties are set by Maryland law and can include incarceration, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Conviction on Record | Restitution |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | Conviction on Record | Restitution |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Felony Conviction | Restitution |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Conviction on Record | Protective Order Possible |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Conviction on Record | Driver’s License Suspension |
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. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented track record of 4,739+ case results across our service areas with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is built on direct, case-specific strategy, not generic promises. For a criminal charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County residents can consult, our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the other side builds a case.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm actively practices in Anne Arundel County. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. In complex cases, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, often collaborates to provide strategic oversight. His multi-state experience and history of amending Virginia state law demonstrate a deep commitment to client advocacy.
Contact Our Anne Arundel County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Our Maryland location serves Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, and Odenton. We are accessible via I-97, Route 50, and other major highways. As a criminal defense lawyer near Anne Arundel County courts, we offer 24/7 phone consultations for your convenience.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Anne Arundel 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 Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases are expunged through the Anne Arundel County court where the case was heard.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at the District Court. Felonies go to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties, like second-degree assault with up to 10 years. An attorney at the District Court can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, which is crucial for your future. This is a key reason to consult a lawyer on how to beat criminal charges lawyer Anne Arundel County residents trust for local court knowledge.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer after being charged?
Immediately. Early intervention allows your attorney to contact the State’s Attorney before formal charges are filed, investigate the scene, speak to witnesses, and begin building your defense strategy from the outset.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. If you are facing other charges, explore our related services for DUI/DWI defense in Anne Arundel County or family law matters.
Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.