If you or a loved one is facing a felony charge in Clarksville or greater Howard County, the consequences can be life-altering. Felony convictions in Maryland carry severe penalties—including lengthy prison sentences, large fines, and long-term collateral consequences that can follow you for life.
At Kunka Law, we provide aggressive, experienced legal representation for individuals charged with felony offenses in Howard County District and Circuit Courts. We understand the high stakes and fight relentlessly to defend your rights at every stage of the process.
What Is Considered a Felony in Maryland?
Maryland divides crimes into misdemeanors and felonies—not by uniform rules, but by how the law defines each charge. Felonies generally include:
- Murder & Attempted Murder
- Sexual Assault & Rape
- Armed Robbery
- Aggravated Assault
- Drug Distribution or Trafficking
- Gun Crimes
- Burglary (First- or Second-Degree)
- White-Collar Crimes involving Fraud or Embezzlement
- Child Abuse
- Repeat DUI/DWI offenses
- Felony Theft (over $1,500)
Even non-violent felonies like drug trafficking or fraud can carry prison time, a permanent record, and loss of certain civil rights.
Penalties for Felony Convictions in Maryland
Depending on the charge, felony convictions can result in:
- Prison terms from 1 year to life imprisonment
- Fines exceeding $25,000
- Probation and mandatory supervision
- Loss of voting rights (during incarceration)
- Ineligibility for certain jobs, housing, or benefits
- Permanent criminal record
- Loss of firearm ownership rights
For instance:
- First-degree assault is punishable by up to 25 years in prison under Maryland Code § 3-202.
- Drug trafficking convictions under Maryland Code § 5-612 may result in mandatory minimum sentences starting at 5 years for narcotics.
- Felony theft over $25,000 can lead to up to 10 years in prison and fines under Maryland Code § 7-104.
All felony convictions go on your permanent criminal record, potentially affecting your entire future.
How Kunka Law Fights Felony Charges in Clarksville
| Legal Step | How We Help |
| Free Consultation | We examine the details of your arrest, charges, and potential weaknesses in the state’s case. |
| Pre-Charge Defense | In cases under investigation, we may intervene early to reduce or prevent charges. |
| Discovery Review & Motions | We thoroughly examine police reports, evidence, and filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence. |
| Negotiation & Strategy | We push for dismissals, reductions to misdemeanors, or deferred prosecution when appropriate. |
| Trial-Ready Representation | We prepare thoroughly for court and trial to aggressively defend you if no resolution is possible. |
We are local to Howard County, familiar with procedures at both Ellicott City District Court and Howard County Circuit Court, giving you a clear advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I avoid jail with a felony charge?
Possibly. While felonies carry prison potential, outcomes vary. First-time offenders or non-violent cases may qualify for probation, pretrial diversion, or plea reductions.
What if I was falsely accused?
We aggressively pursue all avenues to expose false accusations, challenge faulty evidence, and demand your rights be upheld in court.
Can a felony be expunged in Maryland?
Some non-violent felonies may be expunged after 10 or more years, depending on eligibility. See Maryland Courts’ expungement guide.
Will I lose my right to vote or own a gun?
Yes. Felony convictions result in the temporary loss of voting rights (while incarcerated) and long-term firearm restrictions under federal and state laws.
Local Experience in Clarksville and Beyond
We proudly defend clients throughout Howard County, including:
- Clarksville
- Columbia
- Ellicott City
- Fulton
- Laurel
- Savage
- North Laurel
Whether your felony charges are being handled in Howard County District Court or Circuit Court, we bring local insight and years of legal experience to your defense.
Why Clients Trust Kunka Law
- ⭐ 5-Star Ratings
- ???? Proven Results in felony jury and bench trials
- ???? Sharp Legal Strategy that anticipates prosecution tactics
- ???? Transparent, Flat-Fee Pricing
- ???? Deep local knowledge of Clarksville and Howard County courts
Call Attorney Matthew Kunka Today – Felony Defense That Works
Don’t wait until your case moves forward—early legal intervention is key in felony defense. Whether you’ve been charged, indicted, or are under investigation, we’re ready to help.
- Phone: (410) 787‑0110
- Email: [email protected]
- Office: 7420 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Suite 300, Glen Burnie, MD 21061
- Website: www.kunkalaw.com