Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Options?
A misdemeanor charge in Prince George’s County is a serious matter under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for misdemeanor cases at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
Maryland Misdemeanor Law and Penalties
In Maryland, misdemeanors are criminal offenses classified less severely than felonies but still carry substantial penalties. The specific classification and penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 4-101. Misdemeanors in Prince George’s County are prosecuted by the State’s Attorney’s Office and tried in the District Court located at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro.
Last verified: March 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a background in building strong defenses. A misdemeanor conviction can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses, making skilled defense critical from the start.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s criminal statutes, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly site). For Prince George’s County court information, including locations and hours, visit the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County website.
Local Court Process for Misdemeanor Charges
Prince George’s County District Court handles all misdemeanor trials. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), a disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record if probation is completed successfully. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction frequently offer PBJ for first-time, non-violent offenses. The process typically involves an initial appearance, arraignment, and potential trial.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your attorney will review evidence and negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a possible dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- Motion Hearings: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case if your rights were violated.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a District Court judge.
- Sentencing or PBJ: If found guilty, the judge will impose sentence or may grant PBJ, avoiding a conviction.
- Post-Trial Options: This may include filing an appeal to the Circuit Court or, after a waiting period, petitioning for expungement.
Potential Penalties for Misdemeanors in Prince George’s County
In Prince George’s County, a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects future opportunities.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft ($100 – $1,500) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible for related DV | Protective order, loss of firearm rights |
| Possession of CDS (personal use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension | Mandatory drug assessment, criminal record |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Prince George’s County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings combined legal experience to every case. We focus on providing a strong defense for clients facing misdemeanor charges in Upper Marlboro and throughout the county. Our approach is based on a detailed review of the facts and evidence in each case.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide practice has handled over 4,739 documented case results with a high rate of favorable outcomes for our clients. In Prince George’s County, we actively represent clients facing misdemeanor charges, working toward resolutions that protect their records and futures. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Misdemeanor Defense Team
Our Maryland office represents clients at Prince George’s County courts. We serve communities including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Prince George’s 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 Prince George’s County are expunged through the court where the case was heard, typically the District Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties—second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. An affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Prince George’s County at the District Court can negotiate for PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, protecting your future.
What happens after a misdemeanor arrest in Prince George’s County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if you are detained. Your arraignment and trial for the misdemeanor will then be scheduled at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County in Upper Marlboro.
How can a misdemeanor defense lawyer help me?
A misdemeanor defense lawyer Prince Georges County can challenge the evidence against you, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative dispositions like PBJ, represent you at all court hearings, and advise you on the long-term consequences of any plea agreement.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing charges in a neighboring area, our Montgomery County criminal defense lawyers can also assist. For an overview of our statewide practice, visit our Maryland criminal defense hub page. If your situation involves related charges, learn about our Prince George’s County DUI defense services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific case.