Felony Defense Lawyer Howard County — Protecting Your Future
A felony charge in Howard County, Maryland, is a serious criminal charge with life-altering consequences, including potential prison time and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing felony charges at the Howard County Circuit Court. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Understanding Felony Charges in Maryland
In Maryland, felonies are the most serious category of crimes, classified by statute and carrying penalties of more than one year in state prison. The specific penalties depend on the offense classification under the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). For example, first-degree assault is a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison, while theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is a felony with a maximum sentence of 5 years. A conviction can result in long-term incarceration, substantial fines, and the loss of fundamental rights like voting and firearm ownership.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | 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 website). Court procedures and information for Howard County can be found on the District Court of Maryland for Howard County website.
The Howard County Felony Defense Process
Felony cases in Howard County begin with an initial appearance at the District Court (3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City). If the District Court judge finds probable cause, the case is bound over to the Howard County Circuit Court for a jury trial. The State’s Attorney for Howard County prosecutes these cases. A key strategic goal is often to challenge the state’s evidence early, potentially skilled to a reduction or dismissal of charges before a costly trial.
- Initial Appearance & Bail Hearing: You will appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Preliminary Hearing: In District Court, the state must show probable cause that a felony was committed and you likely committed it.
- Grand Jury Indictment or Information Filing: The case proceeds to Circuit Court via a grand jury indictment or a filing of an information by the State’s Attorney.
- Arraignment in Circuit Court: You are formally read the charges and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Pretrial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and exchanges evidence with the prosecution.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Felony Convictions
In Howard County, a felony conviction carries severe penalties including state prison time, large fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and civil rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, permanent record |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Loss of firearm rights, violent offender registry |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | Mandatory minimums, driver’s license suspension |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Considered a crime of violence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We understand the high stakes of a felony charge and build a defense focused on protecting your freedom and future.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our approach is results-driven. While every case is unique, our firm’s extensive experience includes achieving dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in serious felony cases. For instance, our team has successfully defended against charges such as drug distribution and assault. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every client benefits from deep legal experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Howard County Defense Lawyers
Our Maryland location in Rockville serves clients throughout Howard County, including Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, and Clarksville. We are accessible via I-95, Route 29, and Route 32. If you are searching for a “felony charge defense lawyer Howard County” or a “serious criminal charge lawyer Howard 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.
Felony Defense FAQs for Howard County
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
Yes. The main difference is the potential prison sentence. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail, while a felony carries a potential sentence of more than one year in a state prison. Felonies also have more severe long-term consequences for your rights and record.
Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Howard County?
It depends. Through skilled negotiation and motion practice, a felony defense lawyer Howard County may be able to get charges reduced to a misdemeanor. This often depends on the evidence, the defendant’s background, and the specific circumstances of the case. A reduction can significantly limit the potential penalties.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for a felony?
At a preliminary hearing in Howard County District Court, the prosecutor must show probable cause that a felony was committed and that you likely committed it. It is not a trial, but a critical stage where your attorney can challenge the state’s evidence and potentially get charges dismissed before the case goes to Circuit Court.
How long does a felony case take in Howard County Circuit Court?
A felony case in Howard County Circuit Court typically takes between 3 to 12 months from filing to resolution, but complex cases can take longer. The Hicks date rule requires the state to bring you to trial within 180 days of your first appearance if you are detained, or if you demand a speedy trial.
Should I talk to the police if I’m suspected of a felony?
No. You have the right to remain silent. You should politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with a felony defense lawyer Howard County. Anything you say can be used against you, and investigators are trained to obtain statements that may harm your defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.