A machine gun offense in Washington County, Maryland, is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, carrying severe penalties including up to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Washington County, with 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. Contact a Machine Gun Offense Lawyer Washington County today.
Machine Gun Offense Lawyer in Washington County, Maryland
Understanding Machine Gun Offenses Under Maryland Law
Under Maryland law, the possession, use, or transfer of a machine gun is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. A machine gun is defined as any firearm that can shoot more than one shot automatically, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. Possessing a machine gun without proper federal and state licensing is a felony. The statute prohibits not only possession but also the manufacture, sale, and transfer of machine guns. A conviction can result in imprisonment for up to 20 years and significant fines. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defend clients facing these serious charges.
Last verified: May 2026 | District Court of MD for Washington County | Maryland General Assembly — official site
Official Legal References
For the full text of Maryland’s machine gun statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly — official site. For court procedures and rules, refer to the Maryland Courts — official site.
Local Procedural Insights for Washington County
In District Court of MD for Washington County, prosecutors routinely seek maximum penalties for machine gun offenses due to the severity of the charge. We have observed that early intervention and negotiation can sometimes lead to charge reductions or alternative dispositions.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documentation related to the firearm, including purchase records and licensing.
- Contact a machine gun offense lawyer immediately to discuss your case.
- Attend all court hearings at District Court of MD for Washington County.
- Consider the possibility of a plea agreement or alternative disposition.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable resolution cannot be reached.
In Washington County, Maryland, a machine gun offense carries severe penalties including up to 20 years in prison and substantial fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Firearm prohibition | Permanent criminal record, loss of voting rights |
| Transfer of a Machine Gun | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Firearm prohibition | Permanent criminal record, federal charges possible |
| Manufacture of a Machine Gun | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Firearm prohibition | Permanent criminal record, federal charges possible |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Machine Gun Offense Defense?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our team includes Kristen M. Fisher, Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, who brings firsthand prosecutorial knowledge to your defense. We understand the local courts, including District Court of MD for Washington County and Washington County Circuit Court, and we fight aggressively for your rights.
Your Defense Team
Proven Results in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Washington County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific case results for Washington County machine gun offenses are not listed, our track record demonstrates our commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Rockville is approximately 60 miles from District Court of MD for Washington County, with access via I-70 and I-81. We serve clients throughout Washington County, including Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our location: 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850 | (888) 437-7747. By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Machine Gun Offenses in Washington County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Washington County, Maryland?
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 (36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, MD 21740). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (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 (District Court of MD for Washington County).
What happens after a criminal arrest in Washington County, Maryland?
After arrest in Washington County: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court of MD for Washington County (36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, MD 21740). 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: up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500: up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Washington County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal.
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
Related Legal Resources
For more information about criminal defense in Maryland, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury page. You may also find these resources useful: Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County, Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County, and Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County.
Last updated: 2026-05-01