A felon in possession charge in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, is a serious offense under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, carrying severe penalties including up to 15 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in St. Mary’s County, providing strategic representation for clients facing these charges.
Felon in Possession Lawyer St Marys County, Maryland
Under Maryland law, it is illegal for a person convicted of a disqualifying crime to possess a firearm. The relevant statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 5-133, prohibits individuals convicted of crimes of violence, drug trafficking offenses, or certain other felonies from owning, possessing, or transporting a firearm. A violation of this statute is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison. The law also applies to individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors involving domestic violence. The prohibition extends to any firearm, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. The state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly possessed a firearm and that you had a prior disqualifying conviction. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County | Maryland General Assembly
For the full text of the statute, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 5-133 (Maryland General Assembly — official site).
For information on the District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County, see District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County (Maryland Courts — official site).
In the District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County, prosecutors routinely seek the maximum penalties for felon in possession charges, especially when the firearm was allegedly used in connection with another crime. We have observed that the State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County often relies on constructive possession theories, arguing that you had knowledge of and control over the firearm even if it was not found on your person.
- Do not consent to any search of your person, vehicle, or home.
- Invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.
- Do not discuss your prior criminal record with law enforcement.
- Contact a Felon in Possession Lawyer St Marys County as soon as possible.
- Preserve any evidence that may support your defense, such as witness statements or surveillance footage.
- Attend all court hearings and follow your attorney’s advice.
In St. Mary’s County, a felon in possession charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Loss of firearm rights, potential federal charges, difficulty finding employment |
| Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | N/A | Loss of firearm rights, potential federal charges |
Results may vary.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in St. Mary’s County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 60 miles from the District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County, with access via Route 5 and Route 235. We serve as a felon with firearm defense lawyer St. Mary’s County and a prohibited person gun charge lawyer St. Mary’s County. Serving the communities of Leonardtown, Lexington Park, California, Great Mills, Hollywood, and Mechanicsville (MD). 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
(888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Felon in Possession Charges in St. Mary’s County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in St. Mary’s County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County (23110 Leonard Hall Drive, Leonardtown, MD 20650). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in St. Mary’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in St. Mary’s County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
What happens after a criminal arrest in St. Mary’s County, Maryland?
After arrest in St. Mary’s County: (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 District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County (23110 Leonard Hall Drive, Leonardtown, MD 20650). Felonies go to St. Mary’s County Circuit Court. Bail set by District Court commissioner at initial appearance; Maryland permits pretrial release on personal recognizance, bail, or conditions of release; bail review hearing in District Court within 24 hours if detained; public defender eligibility based on income; court costs: approximately $22.50-$55. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in St. Mary’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault: up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500: up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
How does a Maryland lawyer defend against felon in possession of a firearm charges?
Defense strategies for felon in possession of a firearm in Maryland may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Maryland?
If facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Maryland, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Maryland law require prompt action.
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For related practice areas, see Criminal Defense Lawyer Charles County.
Last verified: May 2026