Felon in Possession Lawyer Maryland, MD

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: June 2026

A charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm in Maryland carries the possibility of prison time, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record. Both state law and federal law prohibit individuals with certain convictions from possessing firearms, and prosecutors may pursue charges in either Maryland District or Circuit Court, or in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, defends clients facing these serious allegations. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team work to protect the rights of individuals charged with weapons offenses throughout Maryland. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your matter.

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What Felon in Possession Means in Maryland

Maryland law restricts firearm possession for individuals convicted of a crime of violence or a felony. A charge of unlawful possession by a prohibited person can be filed when a person with a qualifying conviction is found to have actual or constructive possession of a firearm, ammunition, or a regulated weapon. Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) also makes it a separate crime for a convicted felon to possess any firearm or ammunition that has traveled in interstate commerce. Because nearly every firearm meets that requirement, a federal charge may be brought alongside or instead of a state charge.

The consequences of a conviction depend on factors such as the type of weapon, the prior offense history, and whether the case proceeds in state or federal court. A Maryland state conviction may result in incarceration, probation, fines, and a further loss of firearm rights. A federal conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) can carry a statutory maximum of up to ten years in prison, though actual sentences are calculated under the United States Sentencing Guidelines. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear in courts across Maryland, including the District Court of Maryland for Montgomery County (191 East Jefferson Street, Rockville, MD 20850), the Prince George’s County District Court (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772), the Howard County District Court (3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043), and the federal courthouses in Baltimore and Greenbelt. The firm maintains its Maryland location at 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850, and serves communities throughout the state.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Felon in Possession Cases

When Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents a client charged with felon in possession, the team begins by examining every phase of the encounter that led to the charge. For state cases, this often includes scrutinizing the basis for a stop or search, determining whether law enforcement complied with Maryland constitutional and procedural requirements, and evaluating whether the prosecution can prove that the defendant knew of the firearm’s presence. In federal matters, the analysis also extends to the interstate-nexus element and whether the government can meet its burden under the relevant charging statute.

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel also investigate the validity of the underlying felony or disqualifying conviction. If the prior conviction is subject to challenge—for example, if it was obtained in violation of the defendant’s rights or has since been expunged or modified—the defense may argue that the predicate offense does not support the possession charge. The team works to negotiate with prosecutors when appropriate and to prepare each case thoroughly for trial, aiming for a resolution that protects the client’s future.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense since 1997. A former prosecutor, he draws on prosecutorial experience to anticipate the strategies the other side may employ. His legislative involvement includes testifying before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and he appears regularly in Maryland state and federal courts.

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. The team includes attorneys with backgrounds as state prosecutors and extensive trial experience, and they work collaboratively on each matter. Across all practice areas, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented 4,739+ case results since 1997. Results may vary.

To speak with a member of the firm about a felon-in-possession charge in Maryland, call (888) 437-7747 or reach the Rockville location at 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850. Consultations are by appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a felon in possession charge in Maryland?

A felon in possession charge in Maryland involves a person with a disqualifying criminal conviction being accused of possessing a firearm, ammunition, or a regulated weapon. The charge may be brought under Maryland’s Public Safety Article or under federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). The precise elements the prosecution must prove depend on the jurisdiction, but generally the state must establish that the defendant had a prior qualifying conviction and knowingly possessed the prohibited item.

Can I go to prison for being a felon in possession in Maryland?

Yes, a conviction for felon in possession can result in a term of incarceration, but the length of any sentence depends on the specific circumstances of the case and the court in which it is adjudicated. Maryland state courts may impose a sentence that includes jail or prison time, probation, and fines. Federal convictions under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) are punishable by up to ten years in prison. An experienced defense attorney can help present mitigating factors and work toward a reduced charge or alternative disposition.

What defenses are available against a felon-in-possession charge?

Defenses often focus on whether the prosecution can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. Common defense strategies include challenging the legality of a stop or search, contesting that the defendant actually possessed the firearm, demonstrating that the prior conviction does not qualify as a prohibiting offense, or showing that the firearm was not operable and the defendant was unaware of its presence. Each case must be evaluated on its specific facts.

Do I need a lawyer if I am charged with being a felon in possession in Maryland?

Because a conviction can result in incarceration and a permanent criminal record, anyone charged with felon in possession should consult an attorney as early in the process as possible. A lawyer can advise on whether statements should be made to law enforcement, evaluate the prosecution’s evidence, and identify potential defenses. Even if the evidence appears strong, an attorney may negotiate a plea to a lesser offense or seek pretrial diversion in appropriate circumstances.

What should I do if federal charges are filed against me for felon in possession?

If you learn that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has filed a federal charge under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), you should speak with a defense attorney immediately and refrain from discussing the case with anyone else. Federal cases proceed on a different timeline and in a different court than state charges. The firm’s attorneys are experienced in federal criminal defense and can represent clients in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland. To schedule a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

Primary legal sources: Maryland Criminal Law Article | Maryland Judiciary | 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)

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