Domestic Violence Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Domestic violence charges in Prince George’s County are serious, prosecuted under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-201 (assault) and Family Law Article § 4-501 (protective orders). A conviction can mean jail, fines, and a permanent record. As a domestic violence lawyer Prince Georges County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense.
Maryland Domestic Violence Laws & Penalties
In Maryland, domestic violence is not a single crime but a category of offenses occurring between people in a domestic relationship. This includes spouses, dating partners, roommates, and family members. The primary charges are assault and violations of protective orders (also known as peace orders). Second-degree assault, a common domestic violence charge, is a misdemeanor carrying up to 10 years in prison and/or a $2,500 fine under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-203. A protective order violation is a separate criminal contempt charge with penalties of up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine for the first offense, and up to one year and $2,500 for subsequent violations under Md. Code, Fam. Law § 4-509.
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 understands the high stakes and emotional complexity of these cases. We approach each case with a focus on protecting your rights and future.
Official Legal Resources
- Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (Official Maryland General Assembly)
- District Court of MD for Prince George’s County Website
handling a Domestic Violence Case in Prince George’s County
The process often begins with a 911 call, skilled to an arrest if an officer believes an assault occurred. The alleged victim may also file for a temporary protective order at the courthouse. At the initial appearance, a District Court commissioner sets bail. Your first court date will be at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County in Upper Marlboro for misdemeanor charges. The State’s Attorney’s Office aggressively pursues these cases, but defenses exist, including self-defense, lack of intent, false allegations, or insufficient evidence.
- Secure Legal Representation Immediately: Contact a lawyer before speaking to investigators. An attorney can advise you on your rights and begin building your defense.
- Understand the Charges & Temporary Order: Your lawyer will review the statement of charges and any temporary protective order. Violating a temporary order is a crime, even if you believe the allegations are false.
- Case Investigation & Defense Strategy: Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, review 911 calls, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to build a strong defense strategy.
- Negotiation or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. Your lawyer will work with the prosecutor to seek a dismissal, PBJ, or favorable plea. If a fair deal isn’t possible, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
- Address Long-Term Consequences: A good outcome includes protecting your record, preventing deportation (for non-citizens), and safeguarding child custody rights. We help you handle all collateral consequences.
Potential Penalties for Domestic Violence Charges
In Prince George’s County, domestic violence penalties range from probation and fines to over a decade in prison, depending on the specific charge and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Protective order, loss of firearm rights, immigration consequences |
| Protective Order Violation (1st) | Contempt / Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $1,000 | Extended protective order, possible additional assault charges |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Severe long-term record, mandatory minimums may apply |
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 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who understands how the State builds its cases. We have a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We provide full representation, from the initial bail hearing through trial or negotiation, always focusing on protecting your future.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients. While every case is unique, our approach is consistent: thorough investigation, strategic negotiation, and prepared advocacy. For example, our team has successfully argued for dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in cases where evidence was lacking, negotiated probation before judgment (PBJ) to avoid a conviction on a client’s record, and secured reduced charges that minimized penalties. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, brings additional strategic oversight to complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Domestic Violence Lawyer Near Prince George’s County
Our Maryland office in Rockville represents clients at the Prince George’s County District Court in Upper Marlboro. We serve communities throughout the county, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
Available 24/7 | Consultations by Appointment
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (Domestic Violence Defense)
What should I do if I am accused of domestic violence in Prince George’s County?
Remain silent and call a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the incident with the police or the alleged victim, as anything you say can be used against you. Contact a domestic violence lawyer Prince Georges County to protect your rights from the very start of the case.
Can the alleged victim “drop the charges” against me?
It depends. In Maryland, the State’s Attorney’s Office prosecutes criminal charges, not the individual. While the alleged victim’s cooperation affects the case, the prosecutor can proceed without them. A protective order lawyer Prince George’s County can negotiate with the State even if the alleged victim recants, often using that as use for a dismissal.
What is a protective order, and what happens if I violate it?
A protective order is a civil order from a judge prohibiting contact. Violating it is a separate criminal offense punishable by jail time. You must follow all terms, even if you believe the order is unfair. An attorney can advise you on compliance and seek to modify or dismiss the order.
Will a domestic violence charge affect my immigration status?
Yes. A domestic violence conviction is a “crime of moral turpitude” and can be grounds for deportation, denial of naturalization, or being barred from re-entering the U.S. It is critical to consult with an attorney who understands both criminal and immigration law consequences.
What defenses are available in a domestic violence case?
Common defenses include self-defense, defense of others, false allegations, lack of intent, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence. A domestic abuse defense lawyer Prince George’s County will investigate the facts, including 911 calls, witness statements, and medical records, to identify the strongest defense for your situation.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page, learn about related issues for DUI defense in Prince George’s County, or read about our work for clients in neighboring Montgomery County.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.