Assault and Battery Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Defense Options?
An assault and battery charge in Prince George’s County is a serious criminal offense under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, carrying potential jail time and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense representation for these charges. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results. Contact an assault and battery defense lawyer Prince George’s County today for a consultation.
Maryland Assault and Battery Law
Maryland law defines assault and battery as separate but often related offenses. Assault is the threat of harmful or offensive contact that causes reasonable fear, while battery is the actual unwanted physical contact. These charges are prosecuted under the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR) § 3-201 and related statutes. Penalties vary based on the degree of the offense, the victim, and whether a weapon was involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s assault laws, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-201 on the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures and forms for Prince George’s County can be found at the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County website.
Local Court Process for Assault Charges in Prince George’s County
An assault and battery case in Prince George’s County typically begins in the District Court at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro. The State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for many misdemeanor assaults, which can avoid a formal conviction on your record if successfully completed.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail or releases you on personal recognizance.
- Arraignment: You are formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney files motions and negotiates with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or PBJ.
- Trial or Disposition: If no plea agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court (misdemeanors) or a jury trial in Circuit Court (felonies).
Potential Penalties for Assault and Battery in Maryland
In Prince George’s County, assault and battery penalties range from probation and fines for misdemeanors to decades in prison for aggravated felonies.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Probation, protective order |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Firearm prohibition, permanent record |
| Assault with a Firearm | Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Lengthy mandatory sentence |
| Reckless Endangerment | Misdemeanor | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | Can be charged alongside assault |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience and Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor whose background provides critical insight into case construction. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm actively practices in Prince George’s County. While specific local case counts are proprietary, our firm-wide results demonstrate our commitment to vigorous defense. We have successfully secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea resolutions for clients facing assault and related charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney, collaborates with our team of experienced counsel on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Representation for Prince George’s County
Our Maryland office in Rockville represents clients at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County in Upper Marlboro. We serve communities throughout the county including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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
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. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanor assaults at the District Court in Upper Marlboro. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged.
Can I get my assault charge dismissed lawyer Prince George’s County?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. An experienced assault and battery defense lawyer Prince George’s County can negotiate for a dismissal (Nolle Prosequi) or a Stet (inactive docket) by challenging the State’s case, presenting mitigating evidence, or demonstrating self-defense. Early attorney involvement is key to pursuing dismissal.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor assault in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland misdemeanor assaults carry significant penalties—up to 10 years for second-degree assault. An attorney at the District Court in Upper Marlboro can negotiate for PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, outcomes rarely achieved without counsel.
What is the difference between assault and battery in Maryland?
Assault is the intentional threat of harm that causes reasonable fear (e.g., raising a fist). Battery is the actual unwanted physical contact (e.g., a punch). They are often charged together, but you can be charged with one without the other.
What are the defenses to an assault and battery charge?
Common defenses include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, mistaken identity, consent (for certain contacts), and lack of evidence. An attorney will investigate to identify the strongest defense for your specific situation.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County and with related matters such as DUI defense in Prince George’s County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.