Domestic Violence Lawyer Anne Arundel County, MD
If law enforcement arrested you or a loved one on domestic violence allegations in Anne Arundel County, you need a defense lawyer who understands the local courts. A charge under Maryland’s assault and family violence laws carries serious consequences—including jail time, protective orders, and damage to your reputation. The right defense strategy can challenge the evidence and work toward a favorable resolution. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Defense Strategies for Domestic Violence Charges in Anne Arundel County
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate every case individually, looking for inconsistencies in statements, missing evidence, or procedural errors. In many cases, they seek a disposition of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ)—a Maryland option that allows a defendant to avoid a conviction by completing probation and then having the record expunged. If the evidence is weak, they push for dismissal or a not-guilty finding at trial. The team also examines whether self-defense, defense of others, or lack of intent applies to the accusation.
The Of Counsel group includes a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney who prosecuted criminal cases in District and Circuit Courts. This prosecutorial perspective informs the defense approach—understanding how the State builds a case helps identify an appropriate avenues to challenge it. Every defense strategy is tailored to the specific facts and the courtroom dynamics at the District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County or the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court.
What to Expect When Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Anne Arundel County
After an arrest, you are taken before a District Court commissioner who sets bail or orders release on personal recognizance. Often a temporary protective order is issued, requiring no contact with the alleged victim. A bail review hearing occurs before a judge if you remain in custody. Your case then proceeds to the District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County for a misdemeanor, or to the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court for a felony.
Court appearances include an arraignment, pretrial motions, and possibly a trial. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes the case. Throughout, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel help you understand each step, assert your rights, and make informed decisions about whether to accept a plea offer, pursue a PBJ, or take the case to trial.
Potential Penalties for Domestic Violence in Maryland
A domestic violence charge in Maryland can be filed as second‑degree assault, a misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine. If the incident involved a dangerous weapon or resulted in serious physical injury, the charge may be elevated to first‑degree assault, a felony carrying up to 25 years in prison. A conviction also creates a criminal record, which can affect employment, professional licensing, and firearm possession rights.
Beyond incarceration and fines, a protective order may restrict contact with family members, require you to vacate the shared home, and impose other conditions. For immigrants, a domestic violence conviction can trigger removal proceedings. Because the stakes are high, working with an attorney who knows the Anne Arundel County courts is essential to protect your future.
Your Defense Team: Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has concentrated in criminal defense since founding the firm in 1997. He is a former prosecutor who understands how the other side builds its case. He and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
The Of Counsel attorneys include a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney who prosecuted criminal matters in District and Circuit Courts, giving the team firsthand insight into prosecutorial tactics. Together, they serve clients at the District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County and the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. Mr. Sris is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where a judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict, allowing you to avoid a conviction if you complete the probation terms. After finishing probation without incident, the court dismisses the charge, and you can petition to have the record expunged after a waiting period. PBJ is available for many assault and domestic violence charges in Anne Arundel County and is a key option the defense team pursues when it serves the client’s best interests. The firm’s lawyers have secured PBJ in a substantial number of criminal matters across Maryland. Results may vary. Past outcomes do not guarantee a similar result.
Can I get my criminal record expunged after a domestic violence case in Anne Arundel County?
Yes, Maryland allows expungement of eligible charges, including acquittals, dismissals, and PBJ dispositions after the required waiting period. Under the Justice Reinvestment Act, the law expanded the types of convictions that can be sealed. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel guide clients through the process of filing for expungement in the same Anne Arundel County court where the case was heard. The firm has helped numerous individuals clear their records so they can move forward without a criminal history weighing on their employment and housing opportunities. Results may vary.
What happens after a criminal arrest for domestic violence in Anne Arundel County?
After an arrest, you are brought before a District Court commissioner who sets bail; a bail review hearing before a judge follows if you are detained. A temporary protective order may be issued, barring contact with the accuser. The court then schedules an arraignment, pretrial hearings, and possibly a trial. For misdemeanors, the case proceeds in the District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County; felonies move to the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. Having a lawyer early—before the first court appearance—helps protect your rights and shape the defense strategy from the outset.
Do I need a lawyer for a domestic violence misdemeanor in Anne Arundel County?
While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer, defending a domestic violence charge without counsel puts you at a serious disadvantage. Even a misdemeanor carries up to 10 years in prison and a fine. An experienced defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal or PBJ, and represent you at trial if needed. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have defended hundreds of criminal matters in Anne Arundel County. A conviction can have long‑term consequences, making legal guidance a critical investment. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your case.
Contact a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Anne Arundel County
If you are facing domestic violence accusations, take the step that can protect your freedom and your future. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel provide active‑but‑measured defense representation in Anne Arundel County courts. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. By appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
(888) 437-7747
For a full statutory breakdown and more detailed analysis of Maryland’s domestic violence laws, see our comprehensive analysis.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.