Criminal Defense Lawyer in Washington County, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
Facing criminal charges in Washington County, Maryland carries penalties up to 10 years for second-degree assault under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Former prosecutors on staff provide strong defense at District Court of MD for Washington County.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Washington County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland criminal law is codified in the Criminal Law Article (CR) of the Maryland Code. Offenses range from misdemeanors to felonies, each carrying specific penalties. The state classifies crimes by severity, with maximum sentences varying by offense. Maryland also provides alternative dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) under Criminal Procedure Article § 6-220, which can avoid a formal conviction. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has handled thousands of criminal cases across Maryland state courts.
For the official Maryland Criminal Law statutes, visit the Maryland Criminal Law Article (CR) (official Maryland General Assembly). For court procedures and rules, see the District Court of MD for Washington County official website.
- Appear for your initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail conditions.
- Attend your bail review hearing within 24 hours if you remain detained.
- Review discovery materials with your attorney to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiate with the State’s Attorney for Washington County for a favorable disposition such as PBJ or Nolle Prosequi.
- If no agreement, proceed to trial in District Court for misdemeanors or preliminary hearing for felonies.
- For felony cases, the case moves to Washington County Circuit Court for jury trial within Hicks speedy trial timelines.
In Washington County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from civil citations to 25 years incarceration depending on the offense classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-degree assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Criminal record, restitution, loss of voting rights |
| First-degree assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Drug possession (non-marijuana) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $1,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Criminal record, possible probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the State’s Attorney for Washington County builds cases. This insider knowledge allows us to identify procedural weaknesses and negotiate effectively for dispositions like PBJ or dismissal.
SRIS actively practices in Washington County — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our criminal defense team has secured dismissals, PBJ dispositions, and reduced charges for clients facing a wide range of offenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Washington County courts. The court is accessible via I-81, I-70, Route 11, and Route 40. We serve Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Washington County? Our firm provides representation throughout the area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Washington 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 Washington County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Washington 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 Washington County are expunged through the court where the case was heard, typically the District Court of MD for Washington County.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Washington County, Maryland?
After arrest in Washington County, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. If detained, a bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court of MD for Washington County. Felonies go to Washington County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Washington County, Maryland?
Yes, many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault carries up to 10 years, and theft $100-$1,500 carries up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Washington County can negotiate PBJ to avoid a conviction on your record or seek dismissal of charges.
How long does a criminal case take in Washington County?
It depends. District Court misdemeanor cases typically resolve in 30-90 days from arraignment to trial. Felony cases in Circuit Court take 3-12 months. The Hicks speedy trial rule requires felony jury trials within 180 days from first appearance. Preliminary hearings occur within 30 days if detained without indictment.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Related pages: Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer | Montgomery County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer | DUI Lawyer Washington County | Family Law Lawyer Washington County