In Washington County, Maryland, criminal charges carry serious penalties — second-degree assault carries up to 10 years under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. A public lewdness lawyer Washington County can protect your rights.
Understanding Criminal Law in Washington County, Maryland
Maryland criminal law is codified in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). This statute defines all criminal offenses from misdemeanors to felonies. The District Court of MD for Washington County handles misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. Washington County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials. The State’s Attorney for Washington County prosecutes all criminal cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has been defending clients since 1997, founded by former prosecutor Mr. Sris.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Washington County | Maryland General Assembly — Criminal Law Article
For the official Maryland criminal code, visit the Maryland General Assembly — Criminal Law Article (official state legislature). For court information, see the District Court of MD for Washington County (official court website).
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Washington County Court
In Washington County District Court, prosecutors routinely offer Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for first-time offenders. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record. The court at 36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, MD 21740 handles all initial appearances.
- Initial Appearance: You appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail conditions.
- Bail Review: If detained, a bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours in District Court.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea — guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the prosecution’s evidence against you.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea: Your case proceeds to trial or you negotiate a plea agreement.
In Washington County, Maryland, criminal penalties vary by offense classification — from civil citations to 25 years in prison for first-degree assault.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Probation, anger management classes |
| Theft Under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, community service |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, probation |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, supervised probation |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Probation, mandatory anger management |
| Drug Possession (Non-Marijuana) | Misdemeanor | Up to 4 years | Up to $1,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Probation, drug treatment program |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Washington County Criminal Case?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute in Virginia, demonstrating his ability to effect real change in the law.
Case Results
SRIS actively practices in Washington County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Washington County Criminal Defense Services
Distance: Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Washington County courts, accessible via I-81, I-70, Route 11, Route 40, and Route 65.
Near-Me: Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Washington County? We serve Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown.
Neighborhoods: We serve all communities in Washington County including Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Washington County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Washington 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 Washington County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Washington 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 Washington County are expunged through the court where the case was heard — District Court of MD for Washington County.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Washington County, Maryland?
After arrest in Washington 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 Washington County. Felonies go to Washington County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Washington County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault carries up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500 carries up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Washington County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court in Washington County?
District Court of MD for Washington County handles all misdemeanor trials and initial appearances for felonies. Washington County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials. The State’s Attorney for Washington County prosecutes cases in both courts.
Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer — Montgomery County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Washington County DUI Lawyer — Washington County Family Law Lawyer
Attorney Profile: Kristen M. Fisher | Location: Our Maryland Office
Last verified: 2026-04. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.