How long does a criminal case take in Prince George’s County

The timeline for a criminal case in Prince George’s County, Maryland, depends on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, the court’s calendar, and the complexity of the matter. Generally, misdemeanor cases in the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County proceed from arraignment to trial within several weeks to a few months. Felony cases, which are heard in the Prince George’s County Circuit Court, often take longer—commonly several months to over a year—because they involve grand jury proceedings, pretrial motions, and scheduling for jury trials. Maryland’s speedy-trial rule, known as the Hicks date, requires that a felony jury trial commence within 180 days of the defendant’s first appearance, though circumstances may extend that timeline. Preliminary hearings for detained felony defendants are typically scheduled within 30 days. A criminal defense attorney can help you understand the specific timeline for your case and work to protect your rights throughout the process. To discuss your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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How the timeline is determined in Prince George’s County criminal cases

Criminal cases in Prince George’s County follow a structured process that influences how long a case takes. After an arrest, the defendant appears before a District Court commissioner, who sets bail or conditions of release. A bail review hearing before a judge occurs within 24 hours if the person remains detained. The case then moves to an arraignment, where the charges are formally presented and a plea is entered. For misdemeanors, the case is scheduled for trial in the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County, located at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. The court’s docket and the availability of witnesses and evidence affect when the trial actually occurs. For felonies, after a preliminary hearing in the District Court, the case is transferred to the Prince George’s County Circuit Court. There, the State’s Attorney may present the case to a grand jury to obtain an indictment, a step that adds time. Pretrial motions, plea negotiations, and discovery exchanges also influence the schedule. While many misdemeanors resolve within weeks, and felonies often take months, each case is unique. A criminal defense lawyer familiar with local procedures can assess the likely timeline for your specific situation.

District Court misdemeanor cases in Prince George’s County typically reach trial within 30 to 90 days after arraignment, while Circuit Court felony cases may take 3 to 12 months.

Source: SRIS local practice data (Prince George’s County Criminal). District Court of MD for Prince George’s County

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

Maryland’s Hicks rule requires that a felony jury trial begin within 180 days of the defendant’s first appearance in Circuit Court.

Source: Maryland case law (Hicks v. State). Maryland Courts

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’s County, Maryland?

PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict, avoiding a formal conviction on your record. Available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772), PBJ is commonly used in Prince George’s County criminal matters. After successful completion of probation, the case can be expunged after a three-year waiting period. This outcome is significant for defendants seeking to avoid the collateral consequences of a conviction. For guidance on whether PBJ applies to your matter, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Can I get my criminal record expunged in Prince George’s County, Maryland?

Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after three years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in Prince George’s County are expunged through the court where the case was heard, typically the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. The waiting period and eligibility criteria depend on the case outcome. Having an attorney handle the petition can help ensure completeness and avoid delays. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What happens after a criminal arrest in Prince George’s County, Maryland?

After an arrest in Prince George’s County, the defendant appears before a District Court commissioner for an initial bail determination, followed by a bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, then an arraignment and trial. Misdemeanors are tried at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro). Felony cases proceed to the Prince George’s County Circuit Court. The State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County prosecutes the case. Understanding each stage helps manage expectations about how long the process will take. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?

Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties; having a lawyer can help you pursue a favorable outcome, such as a PBJ or dismissal. For example, second-degree assault carries up to 10 years of imprisonment. An attorney familiar with Prince George’s County courts can evaluate the evidence, negotiate with the State’s Attorney, and advocate for alternatives to conviction. While you are not required to hire counsel, self-representation involves substantial risk. To discuss your case, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How long does a felony case typically take in Prince George’s County Circuit Court?

Felony cases in Prince George’s County Circuit Court often take between three months and over a year from the initial appearance to resolution, depending on the complexity and whether the case goes to trial. The process includes a preliminary hearing in the District Court, grand jury indictment, pretrial motions, and trial scheduling. Maryland’s 180-day Hicks rule sets a deadline for jury trial commencement, but continuances and plea negotiations can extend the timeline. Having an experienced defense attorney to manage discovery and motions can help move the case efficiently.

What factors most affect how long a criminal case takes in Prince George’s County?

Key factors include the severity of the charge (misdemeanor or felony), the court’s docket, the complexity of the evidence, the number of pretrial motions, and whether the case goes to trial or resolves through a plea. In Prince George’s County, the District Court handles a high volume of misdemeanors, while the Circuit Court schedules felony jury trials. Attorneys can influence the timeline by filing motions, negotiating early resolution, or preparing for trial. The timeline varies; your attorney can provide a realistic estimate after evaluating your case.

Is there a speedy trial right in Maryland that limits how long a case can take?

Yes, Maryland has a statutory speedy trial rule for felony cases, often called the Hicks date, which requires trial within 180 days of the defendant’s first appearance in Circuit Court. For misdemeanors, no fixed statutory deadline applies, but constitutional speedy trial protections remain. Delays caused by the defense or for good cause may extend the timeline. An attorney can monitor the case status and file a motion to enforce the right if necessary.

Can a criminal case be resolved quickly in Prince George’s County without a trial?

Yes, many criminal cases in Prince George’s County resolve without a full trial through plea agreements, probation before judgment, or dismissal. Early intervention by a defense attorney can lead to a Stet (inactive docket) or Nolle Prosequi (prosecutor dropping charges). A quick resolution often depends on the strength of the evidence, the defendant’s record, and the availability of diversion programs. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What is a preliminary hearing and how does it affect the timeline?

A preliminary hearing is a proceeding in District Court for felony cases where the State must show probable cause to hold the defendant for trial in Circuit Court. In Prince George’s County, a preliminary hearing is typically held within 30 days if the defendant is detained. If the State meets the burden, the case moves to Circuit Court, adding weeks to the timeline. If not, the charges may be dismissed. An attorney can use the preliminary hearing to evaluate the case and argue for release.

How does bail or pretrial release affect how long a case takes?

A defendant who is released pending trial generally has more time to prepare a defense and may negotiate a better outcome, potentially affecting the overall timeline. In Prince George’s County, bail is set by a District Court commissioner, with a review hearing within 24 hours if the person is detained. Pretrial release can allow the attorney to gather evidence and pursue diversion programs, which may lead to earlier resolution. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss bail and your defense options.

What should I do if I am facing criminal charges in Prince George’s County and worried about the timeline?

Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to understand the procedural steps, potential timeline, and strategies for your case. Do not discuss the facts with anyone except your lawyer. Prompt action can affect bail, evidence preservation, and early negotiations. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has represented clients in Prince George’s County courts, with Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team handling criminal matters. To schedule a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who established the firm in 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). For criminal cases in Prince George’s County, Mr. Sris works with Of Counsel Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney with prosecutorial experience in District and Circuit Courts. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.

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Our Rockville location—199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850—serves clients throughout Prince George’s County and across Maryland. By appointment. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule.

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