Felony Defense Lawyer Washington County — What Are Your Options?
A felony conviction in Washington County, Maryland, can result in years of imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Theft over $1,500 is a felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104, carrying up to 5 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Washington County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, a felony is a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year. The classification and penalties are defined in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. For example, first-degree assault is a felony punishable by up to 25 years. Theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is also a felony, with a maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine. The specific statute governing your charge is critical, as it determines the potential consequences and available defenses. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, focuses on building defense strategies grounded in a detailed understanding of these laws.
For official state statutes, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. For local court procedures, visit the District Court of MD for Washington County website.
The procedural path for a felony in Washington County begins at the District Court for an initial appearance and preliminary hearing. If the case proceeds, it is bound over to the Washington County Circuit Court for a jury trial. Understanding this two-court process is essential for timing motions and negotiations.
- Initial Appearance: You will appear before a District Court commissioner at 36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, who will set bail conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: Within 30 days if detained, a District Court judge determines if there is probable cause to believe a felony was committed.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If bound over, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Washington County Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The State’s Attorney may offer a plea to a lesser charge; if not, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the Circuit Court judge will impose a sentence based on Maryland sentencing guidelines.
In Washington County, felony penalties range from over one year to life imprisonment, with fines up to $10,000 or more, plus a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent felony record, loss of firearm rights |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible driver’s license suspension | Mandatory minimum sentences may apply, asset forfeiture |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Considered a crime of violence, parole restrictions |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a distinct advantage to felony cases in Washington County. Founded in 1997, the firm combines over 120 years of legal experience. Our lead attorney for Maryland criminal defense, Kristen Fisher, is a former Assistant State’s Attorney who prosecuted felonies in Maryland courts. This inside perspective is invaluable for anticipating prosecution strategies and negotiating favorable outcomes. The firm has documented over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93% firm-wide.
Our team, including firm founder and former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has a track record of achieving positive results in serious cases. We have secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), favorable plea agreements, and not-guilty verdicts for clients facing felony charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Every case is defended with a focus on the specific facts and the local legal field of Washington County.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
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.
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Washington County, including Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown. We are accessible via I-81 and I-70. If you need a felony defense lawyer near Washington County courts, contact us for a consultation.
Felony Defense in Washington County: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Washington County?
The key difference is the potential jail time. Misdemeanors carry a maximum of up to one year in the Washington County Detention Center. Felonies are punishable by imprisonment for over one year, served in a state correctional facility, and come with more severe long-term consequences.
Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Washington County?
It depends. Through plea negotiations with the Washington County State’s Attorney’s office, some felonies can be reduced to misdemeanors. Success often depends on the strength of the evidence, the defendant’s background, and the skill of the defense attorney in presenting mitigating factors.
What is a preliminary hearing for a felony in Washington County?
A preliminary hearing is held in District Court to determine if there is probable cause to believe a felony was committed and that you committed it. It is a critical stage where a defense attorney can challenge the State’s evidence before the case is sent to Circuit Court for trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Washington County?
Yes. The consequences of a felony conviction are too severe to handle alone. An experienced felony defense lawyer Washington County relies on can protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate for you at trial in Washington County Circuit Court.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a felony in Maryland?
PBJ is a disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. While available for some felonies, it is not guaranteed. After successful completion of probation, the case may be eligible for expungement, but it remains a serious matter on your record during the probation period.
For more information on criminal defense in Maryland, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Frederick County. If you are facing other serious charges, our firm provides representation for matters such as DUI/DWI in Washington County.
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.