Felony Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious criminal charge with potential for years in prison and lasting consequences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense strategy for clients facing felony charges in District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County and Anne Arundel County Circuit Court.
Maryland Felony Charges and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, felonies are the most serious category of crimes, classified by the potential prison sentence. A felony conviction can result in a sentence of more than one year in a state correctional facility. The specific penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. For example, first-degree assault is a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison, while theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is a felony with a maximum penalty of 5 years. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to building a defense against these severe charges.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures and local rules for Anne Arundel County can be found on the District Court of Maryland website for Anne Arundel County.
Local Court Process for a Felony Charge in Anne Arundel County
The process for a felony charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County case begins at the District Court for Anne Arundel County (251 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401) for an initial appearance and bail determination. A preliminary hearing may be held there if you are held without an indictment. The case then moves to the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court for indictment, arraignment, and potential jury trial. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes these cases. A critical local disposition is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which, if granted, avoids a formal conviction on your record for many offenses.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will appear before a District Court commissioner at 251 Rowe Boulevard within 24 hours of arrest for bail review.
- Preliminary Hearing: If held without indictment, you have the right to a preliminary hearing in District Court to determine if probable cause exists.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: After a grand jury indictment or information filing, you will be arraigned in Anne Arundel County Circuit Court to enter a plea.
- Pretrial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence and compel the prosecution to share all evidence against you.
- Plea Negotiation 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, a separate sentencing hearing will determine your penalty based on Maryland sentencing guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Felony Charges
In Anne Arundel County, a felony conviction carries severe penalties including lengthy prison terms, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and voting rights.
| Offense (Examples) | 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 crime record, firearm prohibition |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Mandatory minimums, driver’s license suspension |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Stigma as a crime against habitation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Authority and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. For a serious criminal charge lawyer Anne Arundel County, our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the state builds its case.
Case Results
While specific locality counts are proprietary, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our capability. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements. For instance, Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, collaborating with Of Counsel attorneys like Kristen Fisher.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Felony Defense Lawyer Near Anne Arundel County
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges in Anne Arundel County. We represent individuals in Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville. We are accessible via major highways including I-97, Route 50, and Route 2.
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.
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 and many felonies 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 criminal record expunged in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
It depends on the disposition of your case. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases are expunged through the Anne Arundel County court where the case was heard.
What happens after a felony arrest in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
After a felony 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. The case proceeds to a preliminary hearing in District Court if held without indictment, then to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court for arraignment and potential jury trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. Maryland felonies carry severe penalties, including decades in prison. An attorney can challenge evidence, negotiate for reductions or PBJ, and protect your rights at every stage in both District and Circuit Court. The stakes are too high to proceed without counsel.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for a felony?
In Anne Arundel County, the District Court handles initial appearances, bail, and preliminary hearings for felonies. The Circuit Court is where felony cases are formally charged (via indictment or information), arraigned, and tried before a jury. All felony trials occur in Circuit Court.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. If you are also facing related issues, consider our Anne Arundel County DUI lawyer or family law attorney.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your felony charge.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.