Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
A misdemeanor charge in Baltimore County carries serious penalties, including jail time and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for charges like assault, theft, and disorderly conduct at the District Court of MD for Baltimore County in Towson. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Maryland Misdemeanor Law and Penalties
In Maryland, misdemeanors are criminal offenses classified less severely than felonies but still carry significant consequences. The specific penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR) § 4-101. For example, second-degree assault is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine. Theft of property valued between $100 and $1,500 is also a misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 6 months incarceration. A conviction creates a public record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
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). Court procedures and local rules for Baltimore County can be found on the District Court of Maryland for Baltimore County website.
Baltimore County Misdemeanor Court Process
All misdemeanor cases in Baltimore County begin at the District Court located at 120 East Chesapeake Avenue in Towson. The State’s Attorney for Baltimore County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), a disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation. Prosecutors in Towson routinely offer PBJ for first-time, non-violent offenses as an alternative to trial.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Conference: Your attorney and the prosecutor may discuss potential resolutions, such as a PBJ, dismissal, or plea agreement.
- Motion Hearings: Your lawyer can file motions to challenge evidence or seek dismissal of the charge.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing or PBJ: If found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence. If granted PBJ, you will be placed on probation.
- Post-Trial Options: This may include filing an appeal or, after a waiting period, petitioning for expungement.
Potential Penalties for Baltimore County Misdemeanors
In Baltimore County, a misdemeanor conviction can result in incarceration, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record, impacting future opportunities.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Protective order possible; firearm restrictions |
| Theft ($100 – $1,500) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution required; employment barriers |
| Disorderly Conduct | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | None | Community service possible |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory drug assessment; probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Maryland Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand that a misdemeanor charge is not a minor matter. Our approach is built on thorough case preparation and knowledge of local court procedures. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every client receives experienced representation.
Case Results in Baltimore County
Our firm actively represents clients in Baltimore County. While every case is unique, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes (dismissals, reductions, not guilty verdicts). For example, our attorneys have secured Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) dispositions for clients facing misdemeanor theft and assault charges, allowing them to avoid a conviction. In other cases, we have negotiated for charges to be placed on the stet docket or dismissed entirely.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer Near Me Baltimore
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Baltimore County, including Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, and Owings Mills. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for your convenience.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Misdemeanor Defense FAQs in Baltimore County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Baltimore 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 at the Towson District Court. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my misdemeanor record expunged in Baltimore County?
It depends on the disposition of your case. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, nolle prosequi, stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). Some non-violent misdemeanor convictions may also be eligible under the Justice Reinvestment Act. The petition is filed in the court where your case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Baltimore County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties like jail time. An attorney at the Towson District Court can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, protect your rights during questioning, and challenge the evidence against you. The potential consequences justify having legal representation.
What happens after a misdemeanor arrest in Baltimore County?
After an 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. Your case will then be scheduled for arraignment and trial in the District Court in Towson. An attorney can represent you at each stage.
How can I find an affordable misdemeanor defense lawyer Baltimore?
Our firm offers clear consultations to discuss your case and the associated fees. We provide various payment options and work with clients to find a manageable solution for strong legal defense. The initial 24/7 phone consultation is a direct way to discuss your situation and options.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing more serious charges, learn about our federal criminal defense services. For charges involving impaired driving, see our Baltimore County DUI/DWI defense page.
Other Locations: We also serve clients in neighboring areas. For help in Montgomery County or Prince George’s County, visit our local pages.
Learn More: For a broader overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Maryland criminal defense hub page.
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 misdemeanor charge in Baltimore County.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.