A felony charge in Maryland is a serious criminal offense prosecuted under Md. Code, Crim. Law Title 2-14, carrying penalties that can include years of imprisonment and substantial fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Maryland, with 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Felony Defense Lawyer Maryland
In Maryland, a felony is defined as any crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year. The Maryland Code, Criminal Law Title 2-14, governs a wide range of felony offenses, including assault, theft, drug distribution, and weapons violations. Felonies are classified by severity, with penalties ranging from 5 years to life imprisonment depending on the specific offense. For example, first-degree assault under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-202 carries up to 25 years in prison, while theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is a felony punishable by up to 5 years under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 7-104. A felony conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, loss of voting rights, and difficulty obtaining employment or housing. As a Felony Defense Lawyer Maryland, we understand the stakes and work to protect your future.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland District & Circuit Courts | Maryland General Assembly — official site
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
For official statutory text, consult the Maryland General Assembly — official site for Md. Code, Crim. Law Title 2-14. For court procedures and forms, visit the Maryland Courts — official site.
In the Maryland Circuit Court, prosecutors routinely file felony charges based on preliminary investigations. We have observed that early intervention by a felony charge defense lawyer Maryland can significantly affect case outcomes. The Maryland District Court handles initial appearances and preliminary hearings, while the Maryland Circuit Court presides over felony trials.
- Contact a Felony Defense Lawyer Maryland immediately upon arrest or notification of charges.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your lawyer present.
- Preserve all evidence, including documents, communications, and witness information.
- Attend all scheduled court hearings in the Maryland District Court and Maryland Circuit Court.
- Work with your lawyer to explore plea negotiations or prepare for trial.
- Prepare for sentencing advocacy if a conviction occurs.
In Maryland, a felony charge carries penalties that vary by offense classification, including incarceration, fines, and long-term consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record, loss of firearm rights |
| Theft ($1,500-$25,000) | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Drug Distribution (CDS) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $20,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Asset forfeiture, permanent criminal record |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor (may be charged as felony in certain circumstances) | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. As a Felony Defense Lawyer Maryland, we have handled numerous serious criminal cases in the Maryland Circuit Court and Maryland District Court. Our team, led by Kristen M. Fisher, Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, provides strategic defense for clients facing felony charges. We understand the local court procedures and work tirelessly to achieve favorable outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Maryland, with firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ totaling 4,739+ cases, including dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions. Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our location in Rockville is approximately 30 miles from the Maryland Circuit Court in Upper Marlboro, with access via I-270 and I-495. As a Felony Defense Lawyer Maryland, we serve clients near Maryland. Serving the communities of Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, Chevy Chase, and all Maryland counties. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Felony Defense in Maryland
What is a felony in Maryland?
A felony in Maryland is a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, as defined under Md. Code, Crim. Law Title 2-14. Felonies are prosecuted in the Maryland Circuit Court and carry significant penalties including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.
What are the penalties for a felony conviction in Maryland?
Penalties for a felony conviction in Maryland vary by offense. For example, first-degree assault carries up to 25 years in prison, while theft of $1,500 to $25,000 is a felony punishable by up to 5 years. Sentencing occurs in the Maryland Circuit Court.
Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Maryland?
Yes, in some cases a felony charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor through plea negotiations or by demonstrating mitigating factors. The Maryland Circuit Court has discretion to amend charges. Early engagement with a felony charge defense lawyer Maryland is critical.
How long does a felony case take in Maryland?
A felony case in Maryland typically takes 3 to 12 months from arraignment to trial in the Maryland Circuit Court. The Hicks rule requires a trial within 180 days of the first appearance for felony jury trials. Complex cases may extend beyond one year.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Maryland?
Yes, you need a lawyer immediately. A felony conviction in Maryland can result in years of imprisonment, fines, and a permanent criminal record. A serious criminal charge lawyer Maryland can protect your rights and build a defense. Contact SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Learn more about our services: Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland (hub page). For other localities, see Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County and Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County. For related practice areas, visit Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Maryland and Aiding and Abetting lawyer Maryland.
Last updated: 2026-04-30. This page is regularly reviewed for accuracy.