Unlawful Dealing in Firearms Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Unlawful dealing in firearms in Prince George’s County is a serious felony under Maryland law, prosecuted aggressively by the State’s Attorney’s Office. An unlawful dealing in firearms lawyer Prince Georges County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends against charges of illegal gun sales and trafficking.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Law on Unlawful Dealing in Firearms
Maryland strictly regulates the sale, transfer, and possession of firearms. Charges for unlawful dealing in firearms, often referred to as illegal gun sales or firearms trafficking, are governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR), Title 4. These laws prohibit selling, renting, transferring, or disposing of a firearm to a person who is prohibited from possessing one, or engaging in the business of selling firearms without a federal license (FFL). The statutes also cover straw purchases—where someone legally eligible to buy a firearm does so on behalf of someone who is not. Prosecutions in Prince George’s County are handled by the State’s Attorney’s Office and can originate from investigations by local police, the Maryland State Police, or federal agencies like the ATF.
External Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s firearms laws, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. For information on court procedures and locations in Prince George’s County, refer to the Maryland Courts directory for Prince George’s County.
Prince George’s County Court Process for Firearms Charges
In Prince George’s County, unlawful dealing in firearms cases typically begin with an investigation and arrest. The initial appearance and bail determination happen before a District Court commissioner. Misdemeanor unlawful dealing charges may be tried in the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. Felony charges, which are more common for trafficking offenses, are bound over to the Prince George’s County Circuit Court for indictment and jury trial. The State often presents evidence from surveillance, undercover operations, and financial records.
- Initial Appearance & Bail Hearing: You will appear before a District Court commissioner within 24 hours of arrest for a bail review.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felony Cases): A hearing is held in District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Grand Jury Indictment: In Circuit Court, a grand jury will review evidence and issue an indictment for felony charges.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty in Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your defense attorney will file motions to suppress evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case will proceed to a jury trial or may be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Unlawful Dealing in Firearms in Maryland
In Prince George’s County, unlawful dealing in firearms carries severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences and significant fines, with enhancements for prior convictions or the number of firearms involved.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Sale/Transfer to a Prohibited Person | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Loss of right to possess firearms | Permanent criminal record |
| Engaging in Business Without a License (FFL) | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Federal prosecution possible | Asset forfeiture |
| Firearms Trafficking (Multiple Firearms) | Felony | Up to 10 years (enhanced) | Up to $20,000 | Mandatory minimum sentences may apply | Federal charges likely |
| Straw Purchase | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Loss of firearm rights | Both buyer and straw purchaser charged |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Firearms Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal matters. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we fight aggressively for every client. For your unlawful dealing in firearms defense, you need a firearms trafficking lawyer Prince George’s County who understands both state and federal laws.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results are confidential, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to defense. SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across our practice areas. In complex criminal cases, our strategy often involves challenging the legality of searches, the chain of custody of evidence, and the intent required for conviction. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on serious felony matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Firearms Defense Lawyers
Our Rockville, MD location serves clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, and Hyattsville. We are accessible via I-495, I-95, and Route 301. If you need an illegal gun sales defense lawyer Prince George’s County, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
FAQs: Unlawful Dealing in Firearms in Prince George’s County
What is considered “unlawful dealing” in firearms in Maryland?
It depends. Generally, it involves selling, renting, or transferring a firearm to someone legally prohibited from owning one, or engaging in the business of selling firearms without a federal license. This includes straw purchases and trafficking multiple guns.
Is unlawful dealing in firearms a state or federal crime?
It can be both. Maryland has its own strict laws, but the same conduct often violates federal statutes. You can be charged in Prince George’s County Circuit Court and potentially in U.S. District Court, which is why you need a lawyer experienced with both systems.
What are the defenses to an illegal gun sales charge?
Potential defenses include lack of knowledge that the buyer was prohibited, entrapment by law enforcement, unlawful search and seizure of evidence, challenging the authenticity of records, or proving the transaction was a lawful private sale between eligible individuals.
Can I get probation for a firearms trafficking charge?
For felony unlawful dealing charges, probation alone is uncommon. Maryland law often imposes mandatory minimum sentences for serious firearms offenses. However, a skilled attorney may negotiate a plea to a lesser charge or argue for a mitigated sentence based on individual circumstances.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for illegal gun sales?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a criminal defense lawyer. An attorney can advise you on your rights, potentially intervene before charges are filed, and begin investigating the allegations against you to build a defense.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also provides defense for federal crimes in Prince George’s County. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Maryland criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring jurisdictions like Montgomery County.
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 unlawful dealing in firearms case in Prince George’s County.