Prince George’s County Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Options?
A misdemeanor conviction in Prince George’s County can carry up to 10 years in jail under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro).
Maryland Misdemeanor Charges and Penalties
In Maryland, misdemeanors are criminal offenses punishable by up to 10 years in jail, though many carry shorter maximum sentences. The specific penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR) § 4-101. Unlike felonies, misdemeanors are typically tried in District Court without a jury. However, the consequences of a conviction are serious and can include jail time, fines, a permanent criminal record, and collateral impacts on employment, housing, and professional licenses.
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 extensive courtroom experience to every case. We understand that a misdemeanor charge is not a minor matter.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures and information for Prince George’s County can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
Local Court Process for Misdemeanors in Prince George’s County
Prince George’s County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials. A key local procedural fact is the frequent use of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), a disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record if probation is completed successfully. Prosecutors in Upper Marlboro may offer PBJ or a stet (inactive docket) for first-time offenders. An experienced misdemeanor defense lawyer Prince Georges County can negotiate for these outcomes.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: After arrest or citation, you will be scheduled for an arraignment at the District Court in Upper Marlboro. Here, you are formally advised of the charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Conference: Your attorney will meet with the Assistant State’s Attorney to review evidence and discuss potential resolutions, such as a plea agreement, PBJ, or dismissal.
- Motion Filing: If the evidence is weak or your rights were violated, your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case.
- Trial or Disposition: Most misdemeanor cases are resolved before trial. If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge at the District Court.
- Sentencing or PBJ: If found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence. If eligible, your attorney will argue for PBJ, which results in probation without a conviction.
- Post-Trial Options: Depending on the outcome, options may include filing an appeal, requesting expungement, or completing probation terms.
Potential Penalties for Common Misdemeanors
In Prince George’s County, misdemeanor penalties vary widely; second-degree assault carries up to 10 years in jail, while theft under $100 can result in up to 90 days.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible for CDL | Protective order, firearm restrictions |
| Theft ($100 – $1,500) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory drug assessment, probation |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | None | Community service |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Misdemeanor Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. In Prince George’s County, our team is led by Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. Her firsthand experience prosecuting cases in District and Circuit Courts provides critical insight into how the State builds its cases, allowing her to develop effective defense strategies. We are committed to “Advocacy Without Borders,” providing diligent representation to protect your rights and future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results in Prince George’s County are part of our ongoing practice, firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our approach focuses on early intervention to seek dismissals, reductions, or favorable dispositions like PBJ. We actively practice in the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County and understand the local prosecutors and judges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense Representation in Prince George’s County
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.
Our Maryland location serves clients in Prince George’s County, with the District Court in Upper Marlboro accessible via I-495, I-95, and Route 301. As a misdemeanor defense lawyer near me Prince George’s County, we provide 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. We represent clients from Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
Frequently Asked Questions
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. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. After successful 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 on the disposition of your case. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases are expunged through the Prince George’s County court where the case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties, like second-degree assault with up to 10 years. An affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Prince George’s County can negotiate for PBJ (no conviction) or a dismissal at the District Court, protecting your record and future.
What happens after a misdemeanor arrest in Prince George’s 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. Your case then proceeds to arraignment and trial in the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County on Main Street in Upper Marlboro.
How can a misdemeanor defense lawyer Prince Georges County help me?
A lawyer can protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or PBJ, and represent you at trial. Early involvement by an attorney is often critical to securing the best possible outcome in your case.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.