Assault and Battery Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Assault and battery in Somerset County, Maryland, are serious offenses under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-201, carrying penalties up to 25 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients at the District Court of MD for Somerset County. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results.
Maryland Assault and Battery Laws
Maryland law defines assault and battery as separate but often related acts. Assault is an attempt or threat to cause harmful or offensive contact, while battery is the actual unwanted physical contact. The severity of the charge depends on factors like the use of a weapon, the victim’s status, and the intent to cause serious injury. First-degree assault is a felony, while second-degree assault is a misdemeanor but still carries significant penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Somerset County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Maryland statute, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-201 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court information for Somerset County is available at the District Court of Maryland website.
Defending Assault and Battery Charges in Somerset County
In Somerset County, the State’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for many misdemeanor assaults. PBJ allows the court to place you on probation without entering a formal guilty conviction on your record, which is critical for future employment and housing. An experienced assault and battery defense lawyer Somerset County can evaluate if self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, or mistaken identity apply to your case.
- Initial Consultation: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: We will obtain police reports and witness statements to analyze the evidence against you.
- Strategy Development: We will build a defense strategy, which may involve negotiating for a dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- Court Representation: We will represent you at all hearings, from arraignment through trial if necessary, at the District Court in Princess Anne.
Potential Penalties for Assault and Battery in Maryland
In Somerset County, assault and battery penalties range from probation and fines to decades in prison, depending on the degree and circumstances of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights |
| Second-Degree Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Battery | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Often charged with assault; similar penalties apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is grounded in thorough preparation and aggressive advocacy.
Case Results
Our firm has a strong track record in criminal defense. While specific results are unique to each case, our strategic approach aims for the best possible outcome, which can include getting an assault charge dismissed. For instance, Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, leveraging his experience from founding the firm in 1997.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Assault and Battery Lawyer Near Somerset County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients in Somerset County, including Princess Anne, Crisfield, and Westover. We are accessible via Route 13 and Route 413.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between assault and battery in Maryland?
Yes, there is a legal difference. Assault is an attempt or threat to cause harmful contact, while battery is the actual unwanted physical contact. They are often charged together.
Can an assault charge be dismissed in Somerset County?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. An experienced assault charge dismissed lawyer Somerset County can challenge the prosecution’s case by arguing self-defense, lack of intent, insufficient evidence, or witness credibility issues, which may lead to a dismissal or a favorable plea agreement like PBJ.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for assault?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you successfully complete probation, you avoid a formal conviction on your record. It is available for many misdemeanor assaults in Somerset County District Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor assault charge?
Yes. A second-degree assault charge carries up to 10 years in jail. An attorney can negotiate for PBJ or dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without legal representation.
What should I do if I am arrested for assault?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the incident with police. Contact an assault and battery lawyer Somerset County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Anne Arundel County. If you have related legal needs, consider our Somerset County DUI defense services.
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.