Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer in Anne Arundel County, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
A misdemeanor charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious matter under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for clients facing charges at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County.
Maryland Misdemeanor Law and Penalties
In Maryland, misdemeanors are criminal offenses classified as less serious than felonies but still punishable by incarceration. The specific penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Common misdemeanors in Anne Arundel County include second-degree assault, theft under $1,500, disorderly conduct, and certain drug possession charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. We understand that a misdemeanor conviction can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. For Anne Arundel County court procedures, dockets, and location information, visit the District Court of Maryland’s Anne Arundel County page.
Local Court Process for Misdemeanors in Anne Arundel County
All misdemeanor cases in Anne Arundel County begin at the District Court located at 251 Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), a disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation. This is a critical strategy our attorneys pursue for eligible clients.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions, review evidence, and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Pre-Trial Conference: A meeting with the judge to discuss case status and potential settlement.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or PBJ: If found guilty, the judge will impose sentence. If granted PBJ, you will be placed on probation.
- Post-Trial Options: This may include filing an appeal or, after a waiting period, petitioning for expungement.
Potential Penalties for Anne Arundel County Misdemeanors
In Anne Arundel County, misdemeanor penalties vary by offense but can include jail time, substantial fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record that affects future opportunities.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft ($100 – $1,500) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record; restitution |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible for certain professions | Protective order; no contact |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Possession of CDS (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Drug assessment; treatment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Anne Arundel County Misdemeanor Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we provide full representation, from initial arrest through trial and appeal. With a combined 120+ years of attorney experience and 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide, we have the depth to handle your case. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State builds its case.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific Anne Arundel County results are protected by confidentiality, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to favorable outcomes. SRIS has achieved over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements like PBJ.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex matters is firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice and a background that provides an advantage in cases with financial or technical elements.
Contact Our Anne Arundel County Misdemeanor Defense Lawyers
Our Maryland location serves Anne Arundel County clients. We are accessible via major routes including I-97, Route 50, and Route 2, near landmarks like the Annapolis State Capital and BWI Airport.
Misdemeanor defense lawyer near me Anne Arundel County: We serve Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
Misdemeanor Defense in Anne Arundel County: Frequently Asked Questions
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. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my misdemeanor record expunged in Anne Arundel County?
It depends on the disposition of your case. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, nolle prosequi, stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). The Justice Reinvestment Act also expanded expungement for many non-violent convictions. Petitions are filed in the Anne Arundel County court where the case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. Even “minor” misdemeanors carry significant penalties like jail time and create a permanent record. An affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can negotiate for PBJ, seek a dismissal, or challenge the evidence, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without counsel.
What happens after a misdemeanor arrest in Anne Arundel County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case will then be scheduled for arraignment and trial at the District Court in Annapolis. An attorney can represent you at each stage.
How long does a misdemeanor case take in Anne Arundel County?
Typically, a misdemeanor case in Anne Arundel County District Court can take 30 to 90 days from arraignment to trial. Complex cases or those involving negotiations may take longer. The court operates under the Hicks date rule for speedy trial rights in felony cases, but misdemeanors also move relatively quickly.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page, or learn about related services like DUI defense in Anne Arundel County. We also serve neighboring areas like Montgomery County.
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 misdemeanor charge.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.