Felony Defense Lawyer Kent County — Protecting Your Future
A felony charge in Kent County, Maryland, is a serious criminal charge with life-altering consequences, including potential prison time and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing felony charges at the Kent County Circuit Court. Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, has extensive experience handling complex felony cases. We offer 24/7 consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Kent County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, a felony is a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year. Felonies are prosecuted in Circuit Court and carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and the loss of certain civil rights. The classification and penalties are defined under the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). A conviction can impact employment, housing, and family relationships for years.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case, with a focus on providing a strategic defense for those accused of serious crimes.
Kent County Felony Defense Process
Felony cases in Kent County begin with an arrest and an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner at 103 N. Cross Street in Chestertown. The commissioner sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained. The case then proceeds to the Kent County Circuit Court for all felony proceedings, including arraignment, pretrial motions, and potential jury trial. The State’s Attorney for Kent County prosecutes these cases. An experienced felony defense lawyer Kent County can handle this process, challenge evidence, and advocate for reduced charges or dismissal.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or upon learning of an investigation.
- Your attorney will attend the bail review hearing to argue for your release.
- We will file motions to suppress evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Engage in strategic plea negotiations, aiming for charge reduction or alternative dispositions.
- Prepare a vigorous defense for trial if a favorable settlement cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Felony Charges in Maryland
In Kent County, felony charges carry severe penalties, including years in prison, thousands in fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects voting, gun ownership, and employment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, permanent record |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Violent crime designation |
| CDS Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Mandatory minimums possible |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Considered a crime of violence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Kent County Felony Defense Team
Our firm’s foundation is built on real-world experience. Founder Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor who understands how the other side builds a case. For your felony charge defense in Kent County, primary attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, brings direct insight into local prosecution strategies. This prosecutorial background is invaluable for anticipating the State’s moves and constructing an effective counter-defense. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes, including dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing serious criminal charges.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While every case is unique, our approach is consistently thorough. We investigate all aspects of the charge, from the legality of the arrest to the validity of the evidence. Firm-wide, our attorneys have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We actively practice in Kent County and understand the local legal field.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Kent County Felony Defense Lawyer Near Me
Our Maryland office represents clients at Kent County courts. We serve clients in Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only.
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.
Felony Defense in Kent County: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
The key difference is the potential jail time. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in jail, while felonies carry a potential sentence of over one year in prison. Felonies are also tried in Circuit Court, not District Court, and have more severe long-term consequences.
Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Kent County?
Yes, through plea negotiations. A skilled felony defense lawyer Kent County can often negotiate with the State’s Attorney to reduce a felony charge to a misdemeanor, especially in cases involving first-time offenders, minimal criminal history, or weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This is a critical step to avoid the lifelong penalties of a felony conviction.
What happens at a felony arraignment in Kent County Circuit Court?
The arraignment is your first formal court appearance in Circuit Court for a felony charge. The judge will formally read the charges against you, advise you of your rights, and ask for your plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). You must have an attorney by this stage to protect your interests and enter the correct plea.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge defense in Kent County?
Absolutely. The stakes are too high to handle alone. An experienced felony charge defense lawyer Kent County knows the local rules, judges, and prosecutors. They can challenge evidence, file motions, negotiate with the State, and provide a defense at trial—all critical to protecting your future against a serious criminal charge.
What is a PBJ for a felony in Maryland?
Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is a disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. While more common for misdemeanors, it is available for some felonies at the judge’s discretion. Successfully completing probation avoids a formal conviction on your record, which is a significant benefit. An attorney can argue for this outcome.
Take Action on Your Felony Charge Defense
If you are facing a felony charge in Kent County, time is of the essence. Early intervention by a felony defense lawyer Kent County is your best strategy. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and your defense options. We are available 24/7.
Internal Resources: Learn more about our Maryland criminal defense practice. For related legal issues in Kent County, see our pages on DUI defense and family law.
Page 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.