Felony Defense Lawyer Baltimore — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Baltimore County is a serious criminal charge with potential for years in prison and lasting consequences. Under Maryland law, felonies like first-degree assault can carry up to 25 years. A felony defense lawyer Baltimore from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | 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 (CR) § 4-101. Felonies prosecuted in Baltimore County range from theft over $1,500 to serious violent crimes. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record, affecting employment, housing, and civil rights. A felony charge defense lawyer Baltimore is essential to challenge the state’s evidence and protect your future.
For official court information, visit the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson website.
Baltimore County District Court handles initial appearances and bail hearings for all felonies, while felony jury trials proceed in Baltimore County Circuit Court. The key local procedural fact is Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) disposition, which can avoid a formal conviction for eligible offenses. A serious criminal charge lawyer Baltimore from our firm understands these local nuances.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will appear before a District Court commissioner in Towson who sets bail.
- Bail Review: If detained, a bail review hearing occurs in District Court within 24 hours.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felonies, a hearing is held to determine if probable cause exists to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If indicted, you are formally charged and enter a plea in Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial & Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through negotiation.
In Baltimore County, felony penalties vary widely: theft $1,500-$25,000 is a felony up to 5 years; first-degree assault is up to 25 years; drug distribution can carry up to 20 years.
| 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, restitution |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent crime record, firearm prohibition |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory minimums, asset forfeiture |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to felony cases. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we build defenses without limitation. Mr. Sris personally maintains a select caseload of complex criminal and family law matters, bringing a background in accounting and information systems that provides a unique advantage in financial and technical cases.
Our firm has a documented record in Baltimore County. For example, in a child pornography possession case, we secured a result of 5 years incarceration with all time suspended and 5 years of supervised probation. In other child pornography distribution cases, we achieved a Nolle Prosequi (charges dropped). Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, also brings immense experience as a former prosecutor and is admitted in multiple states, including Maryland. He provides strategic oversight on complex felony defenses.
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 at Baltimore County courts. We are a felony defense lawyer near Baltimore County, accessible via I-695 (Baltimore Beltway), I-83, and I-95. We serve communities including Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium.
Felony Defense Lawyer Baltimore FAQ
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. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Baltimore 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. Cases in Baltimore County are expunged through the court where the case was heard. Eligibility is specific to each case’s outcome and the offense.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Baltimore County, Maryland?
After arrest in Baltimore 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. Felonies go to Baltimore County Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony in Baltimore County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland felonies carry severe penalties, including years in prison and a permanent record. An attorney at District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson can challenge evidence, negotiate for reduced charges or PBJ, and protect your rights at every stage of the process.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court for a felony?
All felony cases start in District Court for an initial appearance and bail. A preliminary hearing is held there to determine if there’s enough evidence to send the case to Circuit Court. Only the Circuit Court conducts felony jury trials and imposes sentences for felony convictions.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Baltimore DUI lawyer or Baltimore family law attorney.
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.