
Felony Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious criminal charge with potential for years in prison and lasting consequences. Under Maryland law, felonies like first-degree assault or theft over $1,500 carry severe penalties. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Felony Charges and Defenses
In Maryland, a felony is a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year. The classification and penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. For example, first-degree assault is a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison. Theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is also a felony, carrying a potential sentence of up to 5 years. The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. A strong defense often involves challenging the evidence, witness credibility, or the legality of police procedures.
Key Resources for Your Case
Understanding the process is critical. Review the official statutes on the Maryland General Assembly website. For court-specific procedures, visit the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County website.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will review all evidence and police reports.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge evidence or procedures.
- Negotiate with prosecutors for possible reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare a vigorous defense strategy for trial if necessary.
- Advocate for you at sentencing, focusing on mitigation.
In Anne Arundel County, a felony conviction can result in years of imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent crime record, firearm restrictions |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory minimums, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a firm-wide favorable outcome rate of over 93%. Our approach is built on thorough preparation and understanding both sides of the courtroom.
Kristen M. Fisher, Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Kristen Fisher is a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland. She prosecuted diverse criminal cases in both District and Circuit Courts before joining our firm in 2010. Her firsthand experience provides critical insight into how the State builds its cases. She is admitted to practice in Maryland and Virginia and focuses a majority of her practice on litigation in state and federal courts.
Case Results in Anne Arundel County
Our firm actively practices in Anne Arundel County. While specific local results are part of our broader record, our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and favorable pleas. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex felony matters, ensuring every defense is strong.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Anne Arundel County Felony Defense Lawyer
Our Maryland location serves clients in Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, and Severna Park. We are accessible via I-97, Route 50, 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.
Felony Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County FAQ
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
The key difference is the potential penalty. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail, while a felony carries a potential sentence of over one year in prison, often with much higher fines and long-term consequences.
What happens after a felony arrest in Anne Arundel County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained. The case then proceeds to a preliminary hearing in District Court before potentially being sent to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Anne Arundel County?
Yes, it depends. Through negotiation with the State’s Attorney, a felony charge can sometimes be reduced to a misdemeanor as part of a plea agreement. Factors include the strength of the evidence, your criminal history, and the specifics of the alleged offense.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. The penalties for a felony are severe, including lengthy prison sentences. An experienced felony charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and build a defense aimed at the best possible outcome.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a felony?
PBJ is a disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict, thus avoiding a formal conviction on your record. It is available for some felonies in Maryland. After successfully completing probation, the case may be eligible for expungement after a 3-year waiting period.
For other legal matters in the area, consider our Anne Arundel County DUI lawyer or family law attorney. For more criminal defense information, see our Maryland criminal defense hub or pages for Montgomery County and Prince George’s County.
Last verified: 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.