A felon in possession charge in Washington 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 Washington County, with 4,739+ firm-wide documented results and a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Felon in Possession Lawyer in Washington County, Maryland
Under Maryland law, a person convicted of a crime of violence or a felony is prohibited from possessing a firearm, rifle, or shotgun. This prohibition is codified in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. A violation occurs when a prohibited person knowingly possesses a regulated firearm. The statute applies to convictions in any state or federal jurisdiction. A Felon in Possession Lawyer Washington County can help you understand the specific charges you face.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every case.
Last verified: May 2026 | District Court of MD for Washington County | Maryland General Assembly
For the full text of Maryland’s firearm possession prohibitions, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (Maryland General Assembly — official site). For court procedures in Washington County, visit the District Court of MD for Washington County (Maryland Courts — official site).
In the District Court of MD for Washington County, prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties for felon in possession cases, especially when the defendant has a prior violent felony conviction. We have observed that the State’s Attorney for Washington County often files charges under both state and federal statutes, increasing the stakes.
- Do not consent to any search of your person, vehicle, or home.
- Request an attorney immediately and remain silent.
- Contact a Felon in Possession Lawyer Washington County as soon as possible.
- Preserve any documentation related to the alleged firearm.
- Attend all court dates; failure to appear can result in additional charges.
- Work with your attorney to explore all defense options, including challenging the legality of the search.
In Washington County, a felon in possession charge under Maryland law 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 |
| Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | N/A | Loss of firearm rights, potential federal charges |
Results may vary.
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 firm, Advocacy Without Borders, has handled numerous criminal defense cases in Washington County, including felon in possession charges. We understand the local court system and the strategies that work.
Kristen M. Fisher, Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, Of Counsel (independent attorney working with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.), joined the firm in 2010 and dedicates 75% of her practice to litigation. She is admitted to the Maryland Bar and Virginia Bar, and has extensive experience defending criminal cases in Washington County.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Washington County, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. While specific case results for Washington County are not available, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. Results may vary.
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 60 miles from the District Court of MD for Washington County, with access via I-70 and I-81. If you are searching for a felon in possession lawyer near Washington County, we serve the communities of Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown. 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
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Felon in Possession Charges 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 (36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, MD 21740). 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.
Yes. PBJ avoids a formal conviction and is available at District Court of MD for Washington County.
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). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Yes. Expungement is available for many dispositions at 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 (36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, MD 21740). Felonies go to Washington 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.
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a commissioner, then a bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Washington 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 Washington 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.
Yes. An attorney can help negotiate a PBJ or dismissal at District Court of MD for Washington County.
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with harsher penalties and no parole.
For more information about criminal defense in Maryland, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury page. You may also find these pages useful: Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County, Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County, and Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County.
Last verified: May 2026