Felony Defense Lawyer Montgomery County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Montgomery County, Maryland, is a serious criminal charge with potential for years in prison and lasting consequences. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, felonies like first-degree assault carry up to 25 years. As a felony defense lawyer Montgomery County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, a felony is a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year. The classification and penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. For example, theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison. The prosecution of these serious charges is handled by the State’s Attorney for Montgomery County. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to these high-stakes cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the District Court of Maryland’s Montgomery County page.
Local Court Process for a Felony Charge in Montgomery County
The process for a felony charge defense lawyer Montgomery County begins at the District Court for initial appearances and preliminary hearings. If the case proceeds, it is transferred to Montgomery County Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors in Montgomery County actively pursue convictions, making early and strategic defense critical. A key local disposition is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which can avoid a formal conviction for eligible offenses.
- 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: A hearing in District Court to determine if there is probable cause to believe a felony was committed. This is a critical early stage for defense.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is bound over, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Montgomery County Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and reviews all discovery from the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Maryland sentencing guidelines and arguments from both sides.
Potential Penalties for Felony Charges
In Montgomery County, a felony conviction carries severe penalties including long-term imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent felony record, loss of firearm rights, mandatory minimums may apply |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Driver’s license suspension possible | Asset forfeiture, federal crossover risk, mandatory drug treatment |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Stigma of property crime felony, parole eligibility factors |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Serious Criminal Charge
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who brings firsthand insight into how the State builds its cases. For a serious criminal charge lawyer Montgomery County, this experience is invaluable. The firm maintains a documented record of favorable outcomes across its practice areas. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring a multi-layered defense approach.
Documented Case Experience
In Montgomery County, our attorneys have achieved documented results for clients. We approach each case with the goal of securing the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or favorable negotiation. For instance, we have successfully argued for Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) dispositions that avoid a formal conviction. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Felony Defense Lawyer Near Montgomery County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Montgomery County, including Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, and Germantown. We are accessible via I-270, I-495, and Route 355. If you need a felony defense lawyer near the District Court at 191 East Jefferson Street, contact us for a consultation.
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: Felony Defense in Montgomery County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County are expunged through the court where the case was heard. Eligibility is specific to your disposition and the offense.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Montgomery County, Maryland?
After arrest in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County Circuit Court. Bail set by District Court commissioner at initial appearance.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony in Montgomery County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland felonies carry severe penalties — first-degree assault: up to 25 years; theft $1,500-$25,000: up to 5 years. A felony defense lawyer Montgomery County at Montgomery County Circuit Court can challenge evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, or seek alternatives like PBJ to protect your future.
What’s the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for a felony?
Felony cases start in District Court for initial appearances and preliminary hearings. The District Court judge decides if there’s enough evidence to send the case to Circuit Court. All felony jury trials are held in Montgomery County Circuit Court, which handles more serious proceedings and sentencing.
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.