A felon in possession charge in Howard County, Maryland, is a serious offense under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, carrying potential penalties of up to 15 years in prison for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Howard County, including representation at the District Court of MD for Howard County and the Howard County Circuit Court.
Felon in Possession Lawyer in Howard County, Maryland
Understanding Felon in Possession Charges in Howard County
Under Maryland law, it is illegal for a person convicted of a disqualifying crime to possess a firearm. The relevant statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, prohibits individuals with certain felony convictions from owning, possessing, or transporting a firearm. A violation is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison for a first offense and up to 25 years for subsequent offenses. The law applies to any firearm, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. A Felon in Possession Lawyer Howard County can help you handle these complex legal issues.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every case. Our team understands the nuances of Maryland firearm laws and the specific procedures at the District Court of MD for Howard County and the Howard County Circuit Court.
Last verified: May 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly — official site
Official Legal References
For the full text of Maryland’s firearm possession laws, visit the Maryland General Assembly — official site and search for the Criminal Law Article. For court procedures in Howard County, refer to the Maryland Courts — District Court of MD for Howard County.
Insider Knowledge: How Howard County Prosecutors Handle Felon in Possession Cases
In the District Court of MD for Howard County, prosecutors routinely pursue maximum penalties for felon in possession charges, especially when the defendant has a prior violent felony conviction. The State’s Attorney for Howard County often seeks mandatory minimum sentences under Maryland law.
We have observed that judges in Howard County Circuit Court closely scrutinize the legality of the search and seizure that led to the firearm discovery. A motion to suppress evidence based on an unlawful search can be a powerful defense tool.
- Immediately invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney.
- Do not consent to any search of your vehicle, home, or person.
- Preserve all evidence, including any documentation related to the firearm.
- Contact a felon with firearm defense lawyer Howard County as soon as possible.
- Attend all scheduled court appearances at the District Court of MD for Howard County or Howard County Circuit Court.
- Follow your attorney’s advice regarding plea negotiations or trial strategy.
In Howard County, a felon in possession charge carries a penalty range of up to 15 years in prison for a first offense, with enhanced penalties for subsequent offenses.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm (First Offense) | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Loss of firearm rights, potential federal charges |
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm (Subsequent Offense) | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $15,000 | N/A | Mandatory minimum sentencing, loss of firearm rights |
Results may vary.
Our Track Record in Maryland
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive documented results in Maryland, including dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea agreements. While specific case results for Howard County are not listed, our firm-wide results demonstrate our commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. Results may vary.
Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Howard County Felon in Possession Lawyer Near You
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 20 miles from the District Court of MD for Howard County in Ellicott City, with access via I-95 and Route 29.
Searching for a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Howard County? We serve clients throughout Howard County, including Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland, 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850 | (888) 437-7747 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Felon in Possession Charges in Howard County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Howard 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 Howard County (3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Howard 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 in Howard County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Howard County). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Howard County, Maryland?
After arrest in Howard 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 District Court of MD for Howard County (3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043). Felonies go to Howard County Circuit Court. Bail set by District Court commissioner at initial appearance; Maryland permits pretrial release on personal recognizance, bail, or conditions of release; bail review hearing in District Court within 24 hours if detained; public defender eligibility based on income; court costs: approximately $22.50-$55. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Howard 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 Howard County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
How does a Maryland lawyer defend against felon in possession of a firearm charges?
Defense strategies for felon in possession of a firearm in Maryland may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Maryland?
If facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Maryland, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Maryland law require prompt action.
Related Practice Areas and Locations
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury — State hub page
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County — Nearby locality
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County — Nearby locality
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Charles County — Nearby locality
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — Nearby locality
Last verified: May 2026