Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A criminal charge in Howard County, Maryland, can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, offenses range from misdemeanors to serious felonies. A skilled criminal defense lawyer Howard County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, criminal acts are defined and penalized under the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). The law classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties escalating based on the offense severity and prior record. For example, second-degree assault is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 10 years in prison, while theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000 is a felony carrying up to 5 years. The specific statute applied depends on the alleged conduct. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed statutory knowledge to build defenses.
For official state law, review the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly site). For local court procedures, visit the District Court of MD for Howard County website.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will review all charging documents and police reports for procedural errors or constitutional violations.
- We file pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss flawed charges.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable disposition, such as a dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- If a fair plea cannot be reached, prepare for and proceed to a bench or jury trial to contest the charges.
In Howard County, criminal penalties vary widely: second-degree assault carries up to 10 years in prison, while theft under $100 can result in up to 90 days in jail.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft Under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no contact |
| Drug Possession (Personal Use) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 | Possible driver’s license suspension | Mandatory drug assessment, probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex matters. Understanding how to beat criminal charges lawyer Howard County requires insight into local court tendencies, which our firm has developed through consistent practice.
Our firm has a documented record of case results. For instance, in Maryland sex crimes cases, we have secured outcomes like a 5-year suspended sentence with probation for possession of child pornography and case dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) for distribution charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides additional strategic depth on complex criminal defense matters.
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.
Our Rockville location serves clients in Howard County. We represent individuals in communities like Columbia, Ellicott City, and Elkridge. As a criminal defense lawyer near Howard County courts, we are accessible via I-95 and Route 29.
Howard County Criminal Defense FAQs
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Howard 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 and many felonies at the District Court of MD for Howard County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Howard 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. Eligibility hinges on the disposition of your case and the specific offense. Cases in Howard County are expunged through the court where the case was heard.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Howard County, Maryland?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at the District Court of MD for Howard County. Felonies go to Howard County Circuit Court. An attorney can advocate for your release and challenge the charges early.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Howard County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties—second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. An attorney at the Howard County District Court can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, outcomes that protect your record and future far better than handling the process alone.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Howard County DUI lawyer services.
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.