Felon in Possession Lawyer Maryland
A felon in possession charge in Maryland is a serious offense under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 4-203, carrying up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience across Maryland. You need a Felon in Possession Lawyer Maryland to protect your rights and freedom.
Understanding Felon in Possession Laws in Maryland
Under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 4-203, it is unlawful for a person convicted of a disqualifying crime to possess a regulated firearm. A “disqualifying crime” includes felonies, certain misdemeanors involving violence, and domestic violence convictions. Violation is a felony punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000. The law also applies to individuals under protective orders or with certain mental health adjudications. A felon with firearm defense lawyer Maryland can help you handle these complex statutes.
Last verified: May 2026 | Maryland District & Circuit Courts (statewide) | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Official Resources
For the full text of the statute, visit: Md. Code, Crim. Law § 4-203 (Maryland General Assembly — official site).
For Maryland court procedures, visit: Maryland Courts (mdcourts.gov — official site).
Insider Knowledge: How Maryland Courts Handle Felon in Possession Cases
In Maryland District and Circuit Courts, prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties for felon in possession cases. We have observed that the state often relies on constructive possession theories, which can be challenged with the right defense.
- Do not consent to any search of your home or vehicle.
- Request an attorney immediately upon arrest.
- Preserve all evidence, including phone records and witness contact information.
- File a motion to suppress evidence if the search was illegal.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea to a lesser charge, such as a misdemeanor.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable resolution is not possible.
In Maryland, a felon in possession charge carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Loss of firearm rights | Permanent criminal record; potential federal charges |
| Possession of a Regulated Firearm by a Prohibited Person | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Loss of firearm rights | Permanent criminal record; potential federal charges |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our team includes Kristen M. Fisher, Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, who brings firsthand prosecutorial insight to your defense. As a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Maryland, we understand the nuances of Maryland gun laws.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Maryland. Firm-wide across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Rockville is approximately 20 miles from the District Court of MD for Montgomery County, with access via I-270 and I-495. We serve as a Felon in Possession Lawyer Maryland for clients throughout the state.
Serving the communities of Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, Chevy Chase, and all Maryland counties.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850 | (888) 437-7747
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County (191 East Jefferson Street, Rockville, MD 20850). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period).
What happens after a criminal arrest in Montgomery County, Maryland?
After arrest in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County (191 East Jefferson Street, Rockville, MD 20850). Felonies go to Montgomery County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’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 Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period).
What happens after a criminal arrest in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
After arrest in Prince George’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 Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772). Felonies go to Prince George’s County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’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 Prince George’s County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against felon in possession of a firearm charges?
Defense strategies for felon in possession of a firearm in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 4-203 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Virginia?
If facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Virginia, 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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Last verified: May 2026