Felony Defense Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Somerset County, Maryland, is a serious criminal charge that can lead to years in prison, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Theft over $1,500, first-degree assault, and drug distribution are prosecuted as felonies under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these charges.
Maryland Felony Charges and Somerset County Courts
In Maryland, felonies are the most serious category of crimes, classified by the potential prison sentence. A felony conviction carries consequences far beyond incarceration, including loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment, and ineligibility for certain professional licenses. In Somerset County, felony cases begin in the District Court of MD for Somerset County for an initial appearance and bail determination but are ultimately tried in the Somerset County Circuit Court before a jury.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Somerset County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal laws, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly). For local court procedures and information, visit the District Court of MD for Somerset County website.
Local Court Process for a Felony Charge in Somerset County
Facing a felony charge defense lawyer Somerset County case involves a specific local process. After an arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner in Princess Anne who sets bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if you are detained. The case is then presented to a grand jury for indictment. Once indicted, your case proceeds to Somerset County Circuit Court for arraignment, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial. The State’s Attorney for Somerset County prosecutes these cases.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: Appear before a District Court commissioner at 30512 Prince William Street, Princess Anne, for bail determination.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The State’s Attorney presents evidence to a grand jury to secure a formal indictment.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You are formally charged and enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest) in Somerset County Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and reviews all prosecution evidence.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor for a reduced charge or favorable plea. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the Circuit Court judge imposes a sentence based on Maryland sentencing guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Felony Convictions in Maryland
In Somerset County, a felony conviction can result in a state prison sentence of over one year, fines up to tens of thousands of dollars, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, permanent record |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Violent felony record |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Mandatory minimums possible |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Considered a crime of violence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Serious Criminal Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years, and we have documented 4,739+ case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that a felony charge defense lawyer Somerset County case requires immediate and aggressive action. Our approach is built on thorough investigation, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, and exploring all avenues for case dismissal or charge reduction.
Case Results for Serious Charges
Our team works to achieve the best possible outcome for every client. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and acquittals. For instance, our attorneys have secured outcomes like Nolle Prosequi (charges dropped) in serious cases. In every case, we meticulously analyze police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Felony Defense Lawyer Serving Somerset County, MD
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.
Our Maryland office represents clients facing felony charges in Somerset County courts. We serve clients in Princess Anne, Crisfield, Westover, Marion Station, and Deal Island. If you are searching for a “felony defense lawyer near me” in Somerset County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are held by appointment at our Rockville location, which serves the entire state.
Felony Defense Lawyer Somerset County FAQ
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
Yes, the key difference is the potential jail time. A misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of up to 12 months in a local jail. A felony is punishable by imprisonment in a state prison for a term exceeding one year. Felonies also carry more severe long-term collateral consequences.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Somerset County, Maryland?
It depends on the charge. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you successfully complete probation, a formal conviction is not entered on your record. PBJ is available for many misdemeanors and some felonies at the District Court of MD for Somerset County and can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes, in many cases. Through skilled negotiation with the Somerset County State’s Attorney, a felony defense lawyer can often argue for a reduction to a misdemeanor charge. This is a common favorable outcome that significantly reduces potential penalties and future impacts.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Somerset County?
Yes. The stakes are too high to handle alone. Maryland felonies like first-degree assault carry up to 25 years in prison. An experienced felony defense lawyer Somerset County advocate can protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you at trial in Somerset County Circuit Court.
What happens after a felony arrest in Somerset County?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner in Princess Anne for bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) case goes to a grand jury for indictment, (4) arraignment in Somerset County Circuit Court, (5) pre-trial proceedings, and (6) either a plea agreement or a jury trial.
Related Legal Services in Somerset County
If you are facing other legal issues, our firm also assists with DUI/DWI defense in Somerset County, family law matters, and personal injury claims. For more information on criminal defense across Maryland, visit our Maryland criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your felony charge defense lawyer Somerset County case.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.