Firearm by Felon Lawyer Frederick County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearm by felon charge in Frederick County, Maryland, is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 5-133(c), carrying up to 15 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 documented results in Frederick County.
Maryland Law on Firearm Possession by a Prohibited Person
Under Maryland law, it is illegal for a person who has been convicted of a felony, a crime of violence, or a drug trafficking crime to possess a regulated firearm. This offense is codified in Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 5-133(c). The statute defines a “regulated firearm” broadly and includes handguns and certain assault weapons. The prohibition is strict, and the state does not need to prove you intended to use the firearm unlawfully—mere possession is enough for a conviction.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Frederick County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We understand the severe consequences of a firearm by felon conviction and build defenses focused on challenging the legality of the search, the evidence of possession, and your status as a prohibited person.
Official Legal Resources
- Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 5-133 (official Maryland General Assembly website)
- District Court of MD for Frederick County official website
Local Defense Strategy for Frederick County Gun Charges
In Frederick County, gun charges are prosecuted aggressively by the State’s Attorney’s Office. The District Court at 100 West Patrick Street handles initial appearances and misdemeanors, while felony firearm cases proceed to Circuit Court. A key local procedural fact is that Maryland law allows for certain pretrial motions that can be critical in gun cases, such as motions to suppress evidence obtained from an unlawful search or seizure. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches, and if law enforcement violated your rights, the gun may be excluded from evidence.
- Case Assessment: We immediately review all police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Motion to Suppress: If the firearm was found during a questionable search, we file a motion to suppress to have the evidence thrown out.
- Challenge Possession: We argue that you did not have actual or constructive possession of the firearm, which the state must prove.
- Negotiate or Trial: We pursue negotiations for a reduced charge or, if necessary, prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
Potential Penalties for a Firearm by Felon Conviction
In Frederick County, a firearm by felon charge is a felony carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, with a maximum of 15 years, and fines up to $10,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firearm Possession by a Prohibited Person (Felon) | Felony | 5-15 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Firearm Possession by a Prohibited Person (Drug Trafficker) | Felony | 5-15 years | Up to $10,000 | N/A | Same as above, with potential federal implications. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Firearm Charge Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and attorneys with deep knowledge of Maryland’s complex gun laws. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. For a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Frederick County residents can rely on, our approach combines aggressive litigation with strategic negotiation. We serve clients in Frederick, Thurmont, Brunswick, Middletown, and throughout the county.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
In Frederick County, our firm has 11 documented criminal defense results: 4 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 3 charges reduced or amended, representing a 64% favorable outcome rate. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. While every case is unique, this track record demonstrates our commitment to fighting for the best possible result. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases involving technical or financial evidence.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer Near Frederick County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients at the Frederick County courts. We are accessible via I-70, I-270, and Route 15. We provide legal representation for individuals in Frederick, Thurmont, Brunswick, Middletown, Emmitsburg, New Market, Urbana, and Walkersville.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Firearm by Felon Charges
What does “prohibited person” mean under Maryland gun law?
Yes. Maryland law prohibits several categories of people from possessing regulated firearms. This includes anyone convicted of a felony, a crime of violence, or a drug trafficking crime. If you fall into one of these categories, possessing a handgun or assault weapon is a felony, even if you are not using it.
Can the police search my car if they suspect I have a gun?
It depends. Police need probable cause to search your vehicle without a warrant. If they have a reasonable belief that a crime is occurring and that evidence is in the car, they may search. However, a skilled felon with firearm defense lawyer Frederick County can challenge whether the officer had valid probable cause, which could lead to the evidence being suppressed.
What is the first step after being charged with a firearm by felon offense?
The first step is your initial appearance before a District Court commissioner in Frederick, who will set bail. You must then secure legal representation. An attorney will obtain discovery, review the evidence against you, and begin building your defense strategy, which often starts with filing pretrial motions.
Is there a mandatory minimum sentence for this charge?
Yes. Under Md. Code § 5-133, there is a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison for a person convicted of possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony or a crime of violence. The judge cannot suspend any part of this five-year minimum.
Can a firearm by felon charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, it is possible. Dismissals can occur if key evidence is suppressed. Reductions may be negotiated if there are weaknesses in the prosecution’s case or mitigating factors. The likelihood depends on the specific facts, which is why you need an experienced prohibited person gun charge lawyer Frederick County to evaluate your situation.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.