Felony Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A felony charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious criminal charge that can lead to years in prison, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. Under Maryland law, felonies include offenses like first-degree assault, theft over $1,500, and drug distribution. As a felony defense lawyer Anne Arundel County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, a felony is defined as a crime punishable by death or imprisonment in the state penitentiary. The specific penalties are outlined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR) § 4-101. Felony cases in Anne Arundel County begin with an initial appearance at the District Court but are ultimately tried before a jury in the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. The prosecution is handled by the State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County.
Understanding the court process is critical. You can find official information and forms on the District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County website.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felony charges, a preliminary hearing is held in District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest) in Anne Arundel County Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions and reviews all evidence (discovery) from the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Maryland sentencing guidelines.
In Anne Arundel County, felony penalties vary widely: first-degree assault carries up to 25 years in prison, theft of $1,500-$25,000 is a felony punishable by up to 5 years, and drug distribution can lead to up to 20 years imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent crime record, firearm prohibition |
| Drug Distribution (CDS) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Driver’s license suspension possible | Asset forfeiture, mandatory minimums |
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. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We focus on building a strong defense strategy from the start, which is essential for any serious criminal charge lawyer Anne Arundel County residents may need. Our approach includes a detailed case analysis to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.
Our firm has a documented record of results. For example, in a Baltimore County case, we secured a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal) for a client charged with Child Pornography Distribution. In another, a client facing Possession of Child Pornography received a sentence of 5 years of incarceration with all time suspended and 5 years of supervised probation. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex felony cases. His background as a former prosecutor and his multi-state practice across VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY bring a high level of experience to every case.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Rockville location serves clients at Anne Arundel County courts. We represent individuals from Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville. As a felony defense lawyer near Annapolis, we are accessible via I-97, Route 50, and other major highways.
Felony Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County FAQ
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. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County. After 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 is specific to each case’s outcome and the offense.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
After arrest in Anne Arundel 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. Felonies go to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court for jury trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland felonies carry severe penalties, including decades in prison. An attorney at Anne Arundel County Circuit Court can negotiate for reduced charges, argue pre-trial motions to suppress evidence, and provide a strong defense at trial to protect your future.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for a felony?
Felony cases start in District Court for an initial appearance and preliminary hearing. The case is then sent to Circuit Court for arraignment, pre-trial motions, and jury trial. Only Circuit Court can conduct felony trials and impose felony sentences in Anne Arundel County.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. If you are facing other charges, we are also a DUI lawyer 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.