A felon in possession charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious felony under Maryland law, carrying up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. As a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Anne Arundel County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the severe penalties and works to challenge the state’s evidence and protect your rights.
Maryland Felon in Possession Law
Maryland law strictly prohibits individuals with certain prior convictions from possessing regulated firearms. This includes not only handguns but also rifles and shotguns under specific circumstances. The statute is found in the Maryland Public Safety Article.
Last verified: March 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Maryland Public Safety Article, § 5-133 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available through the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County website.
Local Defense Strategy in Anne Arundel County
Defending a felon with firearm charge requires a detailed examination of the search, the firearm’s status, and your prior record. In Anne Arundel County, prosecutors at the District Court on Rowe Boulevard actively pursue these cases. A key local procedural fact is that while these are felony charges, initial appearances and bail hearings occur at the District Court before potential transfer to Circuit Court for trial.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will file for a bail review hearing in District Court if you are detained.
- Your lawyer will obtain all discovery, including police reports and evidence logs.
- We will investigate the legality of the search and seizure that led to the firearm’s discovery.
- We will verify the classification of your prior conviction and the status of the firearm.
- We will pursue motions to suppress evidence or negotiate for a favorable resolution, potentially avoiding a felony conviction.
Penalties for Felon in Possession in Maryland
In Anne Arundel County, a felon in possession charge is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years without parole for a second offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession (First Offense) | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Permanent criminal record, loss of firearm rights, probation. |
| Felon in Possession (Subsequent Offense) | Felony | Mandatory min. 5 years, up to 15 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Enhanced penalties, no parole for mandatory portion. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Anne Arundel County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented track record of handling complex criminal charges. Our approach is based on thorough case investigation and strategic defense planning.
Case Results
Our firm-wide practice has resulted in 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific results are unique to each case, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor and firm founder with multi-state bar admissions—applies rigorous defense strategies. We examine every detail, from the legality of police stops to the chain of custody of evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Felon in Possession Lawyer Near Anne Arundel County
Our Maryland location serves clients at Anne Arundel County courts. We represent individuals from Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes, PBJ is a disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict, avoiding a formal conviction. It is available for many offenses at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County. After 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. 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 Anne Arundel County are expunged through the court where the case was heard.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Anne Arundel 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 District Court. Felonies, like felon in possession, go to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony gun charge in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. Felony gun charges like felon in possession carry penalties of up to 15 years in prison. An attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate for a reduced charge, or seek alternatives to incarceration. Contact our firm for a consultation.
What makes someone a “prohibited person” under Maryland gun law?
A prohibited person includes individuals convicted of a felony, a crime of violence, or a domestic violence misdemeanor; those convicted of certain drug offenses; individuals who are fugitives; and those subject to a final protective order. A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Anne Arundel County can review your specific history.
Can a felon in possession charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the facts of the case, your prior record, and the prosecution’s evidence. In some instances, negotiation may lead to a plea to a lesser charge, such as a misdemeanor firearm offense, which carries significantly lower penalties. An experienced felon in possession lawyer Anne Arundel County can evaluate this possibility.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Anne Arundel County and criminal defense in Montgomery County. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our Maryland criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.