Criminal Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A criminal charge in Prince George’s County, Maryland, can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our criminal defense lawyer Prince Georges County handles cases at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro).
Maryland Criminal Law and Your Charges
Maryland classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Misdemeanors like second-degree assault can carry up to 10 years in prison, while felonies like first-degree assault can lead to up to 25 years. The specific statute cited on your charging document determines the potential consequences you face.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand how prosecutors build cases in Prince George’s County.
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, including forms and procedures, refer to the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County website (courts.state.md.us).
Prince George’s County Court Process and Defense Strategy
In Prince George’s County, all misdemeanor trials and initial felony appearances happen at the District Court on Main Street in Upper Marlboro. Felony jury trials move to the Prince George’s County Circuit Court. The State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County prosecutes these cases. A key local strategy involves seeking a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) disposition, which avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Arraignment: You are formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney files motions to challenge evidence and negotiates with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or a favorable plea agreement.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial (District Court) or jury trial (Circuit Court for felonies).
- Sentencing or PBJ: If found guilty, the judge imposes sentence. If eligible, your attorney will argue for a PBJ to avoid a conviction.
- Post-Trial Options: This may include 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
In Prince George’s County, criminal penalties range from fines and probation to decades in prison, 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 | Civil restitution; criminal record |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Civil restitution; criminal record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible for related DV | Protective order; no contact provisions |
| 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 | Possible for related DV | Violent felony record; parole eligibility rules |
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 team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who brings firsthand insight into how the State builds its cases. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results. We approach each case with a focus on protecting your rights and future.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a strong record of achieving positive outcomes for clients. Firm-wide, we have documented 4,739+ case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. In Maryland, our team, including Mr. Sris, has successfully defended clients against serious charges. For example, we have secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in child pornography distribution cases and negotiated suspended sentences with probation in other complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Our Maryland location 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, Route 301, and other major highways.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Criminal Defense in Prince George’s County
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 after a 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. An attorney can review your record to determine eligibility.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
After arrest in Prince George’s County: (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 in Upper Marlboro. Felonies go to Prince George’s County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault: up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500: up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. This is why consulting a criminal charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County is critical.
How can a lawyer help me beat criminal charges in Prince George’s County?
A lawyer can help you beat criminal charges by challenging the evidence against you, filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, negotiating with prosecutors for dismissal or reduction, and presenting a strong defense at trial. Understanding how to beat criminal charges lawyer Prince George’s County strategies is key to protecting your future.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Howard County. If you are facing other legal issues, explore our Prince George’s County DUI defense or family law services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance regarding your specific situation.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.