Criminal Defense Lawyer in Montgomery County, Maryland
A criminal charge in Montgomery County, Maryland, can lead to severe penalties, including jail time and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense in the District Court of MD for Montgomery County. Our team, led by former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, has documented 21 case results in the county with a 95% favorable outcome rate.
Maryland Criminal Law Defined
Maryland criminal law is codified in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). Offenses range from misdemeanors, like theft under $1,500, to felonies, such as first-degree assault. The classification determines the potential penalties and the court where your case will be heard. Misdemeanors are typically tried in District Court, while felonies proceed to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 4-101 (official Maryland General Assembly). For court procedures and locations, visit the District Court of MD for Montgomery County website.
Local Court Process in Montgomery County
Your case will begin at the District Court of MD for Montgomery County at 191 East Jefferson Street in Rockville. The State’s Attorney for Montgomery County prosecutes the charges. 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.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail or releases you on personal recognizance.
- Arraignment: You are formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and negotiates with the prosecutor for dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charges.
- District Court Trial: If no agreement is reached, a bench trial (judge only) is held for misdemeanors in District Court.
- Circuit Court (Felonies): Felony charges move to Montgomery County Circuit Court for a preliminary hearing and potential jury trial.
- Sentencing or Disposition: If found guilty, the judge imposes sentence. If PBJ is granted, the case is closed after probation.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In Montgomery County, criminal penalties vary widely by offense. For example, second-degree assault carries up to 10 years in prison, while theft under $100 can result in up to 90 days in jail.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft Under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no contact |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent felony record |
| Drug Possession (Personal) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Drug treatment, probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight relentlessly for clients in Montgomery County. Our lead attorney for Maryland criminal defense, Kristen Fisher, is a former Assistant State’s Attorney who prosecuted cases in Maryland District and Circuit Courts. This inside perspective is invaluable for building a defense and negotiating with prosecutors. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Documented Case Results
In Montgomery County, our firm has a documented record of 21 total case results across all practice areas, with a 95% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), charges not filed (Stet), and favorable plea agreements like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ). Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Representation
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Montgomery County. We are familiar with the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures at the District Court on East Jefferson Street. If you need a criminal defense lawyer near Rockville Town Square or anywhere in Montgomery County, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
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.
Serving: Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, Chevy Chase.
Frequently Asked Questions
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. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors at the District Court of MD for Montgomery County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Montgomery County, Maryland?
Yes. 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, typically the District Court at 191 East Jefferson Street, Rockville.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Montgomery County, Maryland?
After arrest: (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 the District Court in Rockville. Felonies go to Montgomery County Circuit Court. Court costs range from approximately $22.50 to $55.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties—second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. A criminal defense lawyer in Montgomery County can negotiate for PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal. Contact our firm to discuss how to beat criminal charges against you.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer after being charged?
Immediately. Early intervention by a Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County is critical. An attorney can contact the prosecutor before formal charges are filed, negotiate at your bail hearing, and begin building your defense strategy from the very start of your case.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your criminal charge in Montgomery County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.