Felony Defense Lawyer Charles County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Charles County, Maryland, is a serious criminal charge with potential for years in prison and lasting consequences. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, felonies like first-degree assault carry up to 25 years. As a felony defense lawyer Charles County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. leverages former prosecutor insight to build strong defenses for clients in La Plata and Waldorf.
Maryland Felony Charges & Charles County Court Process
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Charles County | Maryland General Assembly
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 § 4-101. Examples include first-degree assault (up to 25 years), theft over $1,500 (up to 5 years), and controlled substance distribution (up to 20 years). The process for a serious criminal charge in Charles County typically begins with an arrest and initial appearance before a District Court commissioner at the District Court of MD for Charles County (200 Charles Street, La Plata). Felony cases are then bound over to the Charles County Circuit Court for jury trial.
External Legal Resources
Charles County Felony Defense Strategy
In Charles County, the State’s Attorney’s office prosecutes felony cases. A key local procedural fact is the availability of pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors. The court at 200 Charles Street handles all initial proceedings.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: Appear before a District Court commissioner for bail determination within 24 hours of arrest.
- Preliminary Hearing: If charged by criminal information, a hearing is held in District Court to determine probable cause for the felony.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: The case is transferred to Charles County Circuit Court for formal arraignment where you enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence (discovery) and files pretrial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, a separate sentencing hearing is held where the judge imposes penalties within statutory ranges.
Potential Penalties for Felony Convictions in Charles County
In Charles County, a felony conviction can result in state prison time, 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 prohibition |
| CDS Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Driver’s license suspension possible | Asset forfeiture, mandatory minimums |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous defense. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We understand the high stakes of a felony charge and provide focused, strategic representation.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific Charles County felony results are confidential, our firm-wide record demonstrates our approach. For example, our team has secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in serious child pornography distribution cases in Maryland. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Founding attorney Mr. Sris maintains a selective caseload to ensure deep involvement in complex felony defenses, collaborating with experienced Of Counsel like Kristen Fisher.
Charles County Felony Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Charles County, including La Plata, Waldorf, Indian Head, White Plains, Bryans Road, and Hughesville. We are accessible via Route 301, Route 228, Route 210, and Route 5.
Felony defense lawyer near Charles County Courthouse. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Felony Defense in Charles County: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Charles County, Maryland?
Yes, PBJ is available. It is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict, avoiding a formal conviction on your record. It is available for many felonies in Charles County District Court. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my felony record expunged in Charles County, Maryland?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). The Justice Reinvestment Act also expanded expungement to some non-violent felony convictions. Eligibility is complex and requires a legal review of your specific case and final disposition.
What happens after a felony arrest in Charles County, Maryland?
After a felony arrest: (1) Initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. (2) A bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained. (3) A preliminary hearing or grand jury indictment. (4) The case is sent to Charles County Circuit Court for arraignment, pretrial motions, and either plea negotiations or a jury trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Charles County?
Yes. Maryland felonies carry severe penalties, including decades in prison. An experienced felony defense lawyer Charles County is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and present a strong defense at trial in Circuit Court. The stakes are too high to proceed without counsel.
What’s the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for a felony?
In Charles County, the District Court handles initial appearances, bail, and preliminary hearings. It also has jurisdiction to accept guilty pleas for certain felonies. However, a defendant has a right to a jury trial for a felony, which must be held in the Charles County Circuit Court.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page, or learn about defense for DUI charges in Charles County. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Prince George’s County.
Page 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.