Felony Defense Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Legal Options?
A felony charge in Maryland is a serious criminal charge with potential for years in prison, heavy fines, and lasting consequences. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, felonies range from theft over $1,500 (up to 5 years) to first-degree assault (up to 25 years). A felony defense lawyer Maryland from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, a felony is defined as a crime punishable by death or imprisonment in a state correctional facility. The classification and penalties are established in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Felonies are more severe than misdemeanors and are prosecuted in Circuit Court. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to defending against these serious charges.
Official Maryland Criminal Law Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, you can review the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly website). For court-specific procedures and forms, visit the Maryland Judiciary website.
Local Court Process for a Felony Charge in Maryland
Facing a felony charge in Maryland involves a multi-step process beginning in District Court. An initial appearance before a commissioner sets bail. A preliminary hearing may be held within 30 days if you are detained without an indictment. The case is then forwarded to the Circuit Court for potential indictment by a grand jury and eventual jury trial. The Hicks date rule requires the state to bring you to trial within 180 days of your first appearance.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will appear before a District Court commissioner who informs you of the charges, advises you of your rights, and sets bail conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing (if applicable): If you are detained without an indictment, you have the right to a hearing where the state must show probable cause that you committed the felony.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: Your case is transferred to Circuit Court where you are formally arraigned and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and reviews all evidence (discovery) provided by the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through plea agreements. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, either by plea or trial, the Circuit Court judge will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines and arguments from both sides.
Potential Penalties for Maryland Felonies
In Maryland, felony penalties vary widely by offense but can include decades in prison, fines up to $10,000 or more, and permanent loss of certain civil rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution; felony record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Felony/Misdemeanor* | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible for DUI-related | Protective order; no contact |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent crime record |
| CDS Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | None | Asset forfeiture; federal charges possible |
| Burglary 1st Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Considered a crime of violence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Second-degree assault can be a felony or misdemeanor depending on the circumstances.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who provide insider knowledge of how the state builds its cases. We have documented over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is direct and focused on achieving the best possible result for your serious criminal charge.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a track record of handling complex cases. For example, in Baltimore County, we secured a result of 5 years incarceration fully suspended with probation for a possession of child pornography charge. In another case, we achieved a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal) for a client charged with promoting/distributing child pornography. Firm-wide, we have 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex felony matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Maryland Felony Defense Lawyers
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Montgomery County and surrounding areas. We are accessible via I-270, I-495, and Route 355. If you need a felony charge defense lawyer Maryland near Rockville Town Square or the Montgomery County Government Center, we can help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve communities including Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase.
Felony Defense in Maryland: Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. 21 total documented case results across all practice areas (95% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
The primary difference is the potential penalty. Misdemeanors are generally punishable by up to 90 days to 10 years in a local jail. Felonies are punishable by imprisonment in a state prison, often for over one year and up to life. The court process and long-term consequences of a felony conviction are also more severe.
Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Maryland?
It depends. Through plea negotiations, a prosecutor may agree to reduce a felony charge to a misdemeanor, often in exchange for a guilty plea. This is more likely for first-time offenders, lesser felonies, or when the evidence has weaknesses. An experienced felony defense lawyer Maryland can advocate for this outcome.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for a felony?
A preliminary hearing is held in District Court if you are charged with a felony and detained without an indictment. The state must present enough evidence to show probable cause that a crime was committed and you likely committed it. It is a critical stage to challenge the state’s case before it moves to Circuit Court.
How long does a felony case take in Maryland?
A felony case in Circuit Court typically takes 3 to 12 months from initial filing to resolution, whether by plea or trial. The Hicks rule requires the state to try you within 180 days of your first appearance, but this deadline can be extended for various reasons, including defense motions.
For more information, see our main Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Prince George’s County and Howard County. If you are facing other charges, explore our related services: DUI/DWI defense in Montgomery County and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.