Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Options?
A misdemeanor conviction in Maryland can carry jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for charges like assault, theft, and disorderly conduct. Our misdemeanor defense lawyer Maryland team, led by former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, has secured 21 documented case results in Montgomery County alone. We focus on dismissals, PBJ, and reduced charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Misdemeanor Law
Maryland classifies misdemeanors with penalties ranging from 90 days to 10 years in jail, depending on the specific offense under the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. For example, second-degree assault is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 10 years, while theft under $100 can result in up to 90 days. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed knowledge of the law to build defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website (mgaleg.maryland.gov). For court-specific procedures and forms, refer to the Maryland Judiciary website (courts.state.md.us).
Local Court Process for Misdemeanors
In Montgomery County, all misdemeanor trials are held in the District Court. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation. Prosecutors in the State’s Attorney’s office for Montgomery County routinely offer PBJ for first-time, non-violent offenses.
- Receive a summons or be charged following an arrest.
- Attend an initial appearance where bail conditions may be set.
- Review all evidence with your attorney and identify defense strategies.
- Negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- Prepare for trial if a satisfactory plea agreement cannot be reached.
- If convicted, explore expungement options after the waiting period.
Potential Penalties for Maryland Misdemeanors
In Maryland, misdemeanor penalties vary widely by offense but can include substantial jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, possible restitution |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, possible restitution |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no contact with victim |
| Drug Possession (personal use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible driver’s license suspension | Mandatory drug assessment, probation |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Maryland Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. Our Maryland team is led by attorneys with direct experience in local courtrooms, giving us insight into effective defense strategies.
Case Results
Our team has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes. In Montgomery County, we have 21 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 95% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, Mr. Sris and our attorneys have handled 4,739+ cases with over 93% favorable outcomes. These results include dismissals, not-guilty verdicts, charges reduced to lesser offenses, and successful PBJ dispositions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer Near Me Maryland
If you are searching for a misdemeanor defense lawyer near me Maryland, our Rockville location serves Montgomery County and surrounding areas. We represent clients at courts throughout the region, including in Prince George’s, Howard, Anne Arundel, and Frederick Counties.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve communities including Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. 21 total documented case results across all practice areas (95% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Maryland?
It is a disposition where the court withholds entering a judgment of guilt. If you successfully complete probation, the charge is dismissed and you avoid a formal conviction on your record. It is a common goal for an affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Maryland to seek for eligible clients.
Can a misdemeanor be expunged in Maryland?
Yes, under the Justice Reinvestment Act, expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, stets, nolle prosequi, PBJ (after a 3-year wait), and some non-violent convictions. An attorney can file the petition after the required waiting period.
What’s the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for a misdemeanor?
Almost all misdemeanors are tried in the District Court, which does not have jury trials. You have the right to appeal a District Court conviction to the Circuit Court for a new trial with a jury.
How much does a misdemeanor defense lawyer cost in Maryland?
It depends on the complexity of the case and the specific charges. Many firms, including ours, offer flexible payment plans. It is crucial to discuss fees during an initial consultation with an affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Maryland.
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.