Criminal Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — What Are Your Options?
Facing a criminal charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious matter. A conviction can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County. Our firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Maryland Criminal Law and Anne Arundel County
Maryland classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). Misdemeanors like second-degree assault can carry up to 10 years in prison, while felonies like first-degree assault can result in up to 25 years. The specific court handling your case depends on the charge’s severity.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. Information about court procedures and locations for Anne Arundel County can be found on the Maryland Courts website.
Local Court Process in Anne Arundel County
All misdemeanor trials and initial felony appearances in Anne Arundel County occur at the District Court at 251 Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes cases. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), a disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record for many offenses. Knowing how to beat criminal charges lawyer Anne Arundel County strategies often involves securing a PBJ, Nolle Prosequi (charges dropped), or Stet (inactive docket) disposition.
- Initial Appearance: A District Court commissioner sets bail after arrest.
- Bail Review: If detained, a hearing occurs within 24 hours.
- Arraignment: You are formally advised of the charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial: Your attorney negotiates with the State’s Attorney for a favorable resolution.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court (misdemeanors) or a jury trial in Circuit Court (felonies).
- Sentencing/Disposition: The judge imposes a sentence or grants PBJ.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In Anne Arundel County, criminal charges carry significant penalties, including incarceration, 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 |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory drug assessment |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We focus on providing full representation, from the initial bail hearing to trial or negotiation. Our approach is case-specific, built on a deep understanding of local court procedures. For a criminal charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County residents can rely on, our team leverages direct experience in the Annapolis courthouse.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm actively practices in Anne Arundel County. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, collaborating with Of Counsel attorneys like Kristen Fisher to build strong defenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Anne Arundel County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, and Odenton. We are your local criminal defense lawyer near the Annapolis courthouse.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Anne Arundel 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 and many felonies at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
It depends. 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 Anne Arundel County are expunged through the court where the case was heard. Eligibility hinges on the final disposition and the nature of the charge.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
After arrest: (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 the District Court. Felonies go to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. Bail can be set as a monetary amount, personal recognizance, or with conditions.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties, like second-degree assault with up to 10 years. An attorney at the District Court can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, protecting your record and future. The court process involves specific procedures where legal guidance is crucial.
How can a criminal defense lawyer help me beat the charges?
A lawyer analyzes the evidence for constitutional violations, challenges the prosecution’s case, negotiates with the State’s Attorney for reductions or diversions like PBJ, and provides vigorous representation at trial. Early intervention by a skilled criminal defense lawyer Anne Arundel County trusts is often the key to a favorable outcome.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and with related matters such as DUI defense in Anne Arundel County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.