District Court Misdemeanors

DISTRICT COURT CHARGES IN MARYLAND

              Most misdemeanor charges in Maryland are prosecuted in the District Court. Maryland is different than many states in that misdemeanors do not all carry the same punishment – there are some that can carry a maximum of 30 or 60 days, all the way up to a potential for ten years! Many misdemeanor charges can also carry additional penalties if you have a conviction for the same crime in the past. The most common misdemeanor criminal charges in Maryland are:

• Disorderly Conduct (60 days/$500 fine)
• Trespass (90 days/$500 fine)
• Theft Under 100 (90 days/$500 fine) or Theft 100-1500 (6 months/$1000 fine)
• Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Other than Marijuana) (1 year/$5000 fine)
•  2^nd Assault (10 years/$1000 fine)
•  4^th Degree Sex Offense (1 year/$1000 fine)
•  4^th Degree Burglary (3 years)
•  Malicious Destruction of Property Under $1000 (60 days/$500 fine) or Over $1000 (3 years/$2500 fine)
•  Violations of Protective Order (90 days/$500 fine) 

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM CHARGED WITH A MISDEMEANOR IN MARYLAND?

Because misdemeanors in Maryland can carry all types of penalties, you want to talk to a lawyer about your specific charge and case! Along with the potential for jail time, these charges can carry up to three years of probation, additional fines, and have long term consequences for your future. An attorney from our office can walk you through the potential penalties, potential defenses, and help think creatively about your needs for the case.

WHEN SHOULD I GET AN ATTORNEY IF I'M CHARGED WITH A MISDEMEANOR?

              Always as soon as possible! In Maryland, individuals charged with misdemeanors may first have a preliminary inquiry hearing where the judge will inform them of their charges and give them future court dates. After that, the next court date for a criminal misdemeanor is a trial date! The sooner you are able to secure an attorney for your case, the sooner that attorney can get to work preparing for your trial date. Contact us today by filling out our online form or calling 240-200-4077.