Understanding Felony vs. Misdemeanor Charges in Maryland: What’s at Stake?
Crimes in Maryland are classified into two categories. The Maryland criminal code expressly classifies violent crimes, many drug distribution offenses, and repeat DUIs as felonies, whereas first-offense DUI, simple assault, or disorderly conduct often sit in the misdemeanor category. The stakes include jail time, hefty fines, loss of civil rights, immigration trouble, and possible suspension of Social Security Disability or Veterans’ benefits if a conviction results in extended incarceration.
If you have been charged, reach out to the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason right away for a confidential strategy session that could preserve your future freedom and financial security.
Felony Charges in Maryland
The General Assembly labels certain violations “felonies” even when the statutory maximum seems modest; any crime punishable by more than 12 months in custody likewise becomes a felony. Representative counts include:
- First-degree assault—up to 25 years in prison (§ 3-202)
- Armed robbery (§ 3-403)
- Burglary, first or second degree (§ 6-202, 6-203)
- Distribution or manufacture of a controlled dangerous substance (§ 5-602)
- Life-threatening injury by vehicle while DUI/DWI (Crim. Law § 3-211)
- Felony theft ≥ $1,500 (§ 7-104)
Felonies trigger longer sentencing-guideline ranges, mandatory DNA collection, and parole-ineligibility periods. They also carry intense collateral fallout: lifetime firearm bans, federal immigration complications, and loss of voting rights while incarcerated for a felony (rights are restored on release, including parole/probation). Employers, landlords, and licensing boards routinely view a felony record as a disqualifier—sometimes permanently. Veterans and Social Security beneficiaries face additional peril.
Yet felony exposure is not inevitable. A persuasive criminal attorney can challenge probable cause, suppress unlawfully seized evidence, or secure reductions to misdemeanor counts, particularly when substance-use disorders, PTSD, or intellectual disabilities underpin alleged conduct. Diversionary courts and §8-505 inpatient treatment petitions often offer rehabilitation without prison—a lifeline for clients whose benefits pay for critical care.
Misdemeanor Charges in Maryland
Misdemeanors generally carry no more than one year in a local detention center, but several exceed that limit—for instance, second-degree assault is punishable by up to 10 years and $2,500; it becomes a felony if the victim is a law-enforcement officer, first responder, parole/probation agent, etc., under § 3-203(c). Common misdemeanor allegations include:
- First-offense DUI or DWI (§ 21-902)
- Disorderly conduct (§ 10-201)
- Simple drug possession (small quantity) (§ 5-601)
- Theft under $1,500 (§ 7-104)
- Trespass on posted property (§ 6-402)
Although labeled “lesser,” misdemeanors can shadow a background report for life, affecting security-clearance renewals, student-aid eligibility, and Section 8 housing applications. Some carry harsher confinement windows than lower-tier felonies, so early representation by criminal lawyers in Maryland remains crucial. Sentencing judges may strike incarceration in favor of probation conditioned on treatment, electronic monitoring, or community service—but only when robust mitigation packages (medical records, character affidavits, employment history) reach the bench.
Your Baltimore Criminal Lawyer Can Set Your Record Straight
The harsh truth is that any conviction—felony or misdemeanor—can cost freedom, income, and standing in your community. A criminal record can close doors to housing, employment, and professional licensing long after the court date passes. Prompt legal counsel can challenge the charges, negotiate reduced counts, or secure alternatives that protect your record. The Law Offices of Terri D. Mason delivers strategic defense crafted to guard both your immediate liberty and the long-term benefits you rely upon. Call 443-948-7772 or contact us today to safeguard your rights and your future.