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Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Charged in Prince George’s County? Scrofano Law PC defends assault, drug, gun & domestic violence cases. Call today for a case review.
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MD Criminal LawPaolo Gnocchi
5 Stars - Based on 114 User Reviews

How a Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You

Criminal charges are official claims made by the government that a person may have broken the law. These charges can be for different types of offenses, such as assault, drug possession, gun-related crimes, or domestic violence. 

Once a person is charged, the case goes into the court system. The state then has to prove the case. This process can move quickly and affect many parts of a person’s life, including their job, family, and future.

If you are facing criminal charges in Prince George’s County, we can help. At Scrofano Law PC, we represent people charged with crimes across Maryland. We take time to understand your situation and explain what is happening in simple terms.

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Our lawyers review the facts of your case, look at the evidence, and guide you on what to do next. From the first call, our goal is to give you clear answers and help you feel more in control of the process.

Having a criminal defense lawyer is important because the criminal law system can be difficult to handle by yourself. There are strict rules, deadlines, and procedures that should be followed. A criminal defense lawyer can help you pursue fair outcomes for your case. 

We also speak on your behalf, deal with the prosecution, and work to challenge the evidence against you. Without legal help, you may face risks such as saying something that can be used against you or missing an important step in your case. A defense lawyer helps you make informed decisions and works toward a fair outcome for your situation.

 

How We Can Help: Protecting You at Every Stage of the Case

Criminal cases often involve strict rules and court deadlines that can be hard to understand without guidance. Some felony charges in Maryland, like assault, drug offenses, or gun charges, can carry serious penalties and long-term consequences. These are not simple cases. They often require careful review of evidence, strong legal arguments, and a clear strategy from the start.

Many people think any lawyer can handle a criminal case, or that a public defender will be enough. Public defenders work hard, but they often handle many cases at once and may have limited time to focus on each one. 

Even for lawyers, criminal defense can be difficult without the right experience. A small mistake or missed detail can affect the outcome of your case.

At Scrofano Law PC, we take a clear and structured approach to handling criminal defense cases:

  • We review your case and explain the charges and risks in simple, plain language

  • We examine the facts closely and challenge weak, incomplete, or improperly obtained evidence

  • We look for violations of your rights, including illegal searches or improper police conduct

  • We communicate and negotiate with prosecutors when it can help reduce or resolve charges

  • We prepare each case as if it may go to trial, so we are ready for any outcome

Prosecutors in Prince George’s County are experienced and prepared to move forward with strong cases. You need a defense that is just as focused. Our goal is to help you build a strong defense and work toward reducing or dismissing charges whenever possible.

Why Choose Scrofano Law PC: A Defense Built on Strategy and Focus

Choosing a criminal defense lawyer in Prince George’s County is an important decision. From the first hearing to the final resolution, you need a focused legal team that can present your case for fair outcomes.

At Scrofano Law PC, we provide criminal defense services across Prince George’s County and throughout Maryland. Our team includes experienced attorneys with backgrounds in both prosecution and defense. This gives us a clear understanding of how the state builds its cases and how to respond effectively.

Focused Criminal Defense

Our lawyers can help you handle a wide range of criminal matters, including:

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This focused practice allows us to stay current with Maryland law and court procedures.

Experience in Maryland Courts

Our attorneys regularly appear in the District Court and Circuit Court in Upper Marlboro, as well as other jurisdictions across Maryland. We understand local procedures, how cases move through the system, and how prosecutors approach different types of charges.

Experienced Legal Team

Attorney Paolo Gnocchi brings over 20 years of experience in Maryland courts. He has worked as both a prosecutor in Baltimore City and as a criminal defense attorney. As a defense lawyer, he has handled hundreds of cases, from traffic offenses to serious felony charges. He is also fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian, which helps the firm work with a wider range of clients.

Attorney Michelle LaTorre has defended hundreds of clients in Maryland District and Circuit Courts. She has taken many cases to trial and secured not-guilty verdicts in both bench and jury trials. She also understands how criminal charges can affect immigration status and helps clients see the full picture.

While past results do not guarantee any specific outcome, this level of experience can make a real difference in how a case is prepared and handled.

Professional Recognition and Memberships

Members of our team are affiliated with respected legal organizations, including 

  • The Maryland State Bar Association

  • The Montgomery County Bar Association

  • The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL)

  • The Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys’ Association. 

Attorney Gnocchi has also been recognized in legal publications and has appeared as a legal commentator on CNN Español.

Clear Communication and Client Support

We prioritize clear communication at every stage. We explain your options in simple terms, provide regular updates, and make sure you understand what is happening in your case. Our team is accessible and responsive, so you are never left in the dark.

Client-Focused Approach

Every case is different. We take the time to understand your situation and build a strategy based on the facts and evidence. Our goal is to protect your rights, address the charges directly, and work toward the most favorable outcome possible.

At Scrofano Law PC, clients receive a dedicated legal team, practical guidance, bilingual support, and representation grounded in real courtroom experience.

What to Expect: The Criminal Defense Process in Prince George’s County

Facing a criminal charge can feel confusing, especially if you have never been involved in the court system before. Understanding how the process works can help you feel more prepared and less stressed. While every case is different, most criminal cases in Prince George’s County follow a similar path from start to finish.

Step 1: Case Evaluation

The process begins with a detailed review of your case. We listen to your side of the story and go over the charges you are facing. We also look at any urgent concerns, such as bail, court dates, or possible penalties. At this stage, our goal is to help you understand where you stand and what issues may affect your case.

Step 2: Evidence Review

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Next, we collect and review all available evidence. This may include police reports, witness statements, body camera footage, and lab results in cases involving drugs or weapons. We carefully examine this information to find any mistakes, inconsistencies, or violations of your rights. Small details in the evidence can often play a big role in a case’s outcome.

Step 3: Defense Strategy

After reviewing the evidence, we begin building a defense strategy. This plan is based on the facts of your case, not guesswork. Depending on the situation, this may include 

  • Challenging an unlawful search or arrest

  • Questioning the reliability of witnesses

  • Filing motions to exclude certain evidence

  • Working with prosecutors to negotiate a better outcome. 

Whichever way, we explain your options clearly so you can make informed decisions.

Step 4: Court Proceedings

Your case will move through several court stages. These may include an initial appearance, where bail is considered, followed by an arraignment, where charges are formally presented.

Felony cases may also involve a preliminary hearing. Additional steps can include pre-trial motions and, if needed, a trial. Misdemeanor cases in District Court may be resolved in a few months, while felony cases in Circuit Court can take longer, sometimes a year or more.

Step 5: Resolution and Next Steps

A case can end in different ways. Charges may be dismissed, reduced, resolved through a plea agreement, or decided at trial. 

After your case is finished, you may have options such as expungement or post-conviction relief, depending on your situation. These options may help reduce the long-term impact of a criminal record or challenge the outcome of a case when appropriate.

At every stage of the process, we guide you, answer your questions, and work to protect your rights while moving your case toward fair outcomes.

 

Take the Next Step Toward Your Defense

A criminal charge in Prince George’s County can follow you for years — affecting employment background checks, professional licenses, and your ability to rent housing. The consequences extend well beyond the courtroom, and the decisions made early in your case can determine how much of that burden you carry.

At Scrofano Law PC, we take the time to understand your specific situation before advising you on the next steps. We look at the charge, the evidence, the jurisdiction, and your personal circumstances. That careful review shapes everything we do from that point forward.

You don’t have to face this alone. Our team is ready to review your case, explain your options, and build a thorough defense. We handle serious charges across Prince George’s County and the full DMV area. Contact our firm for a case evaluation and learn where you stand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Prince George’s County

What types of criminal cases does Scrofano Law PC handle in Prince George’s County?

Scrofano Law PC focuses on serious criminal charges in Prince George’s County. This includes assault, domestic violence, gun offenses, drug crimes, sex offenses, and serious misdemeanors. Our law firm serves clients throughout Maryland and the broader DMV area.

What happens after an arrest in Prince George’s County?

After an arrest, you will go through an initial appearance. A judge reviews the charges and sets bail. Then comes a preliminary hearing, where the state must show enough evidence to proceed. Cases are handled at the Prince George’s County Circuit Court or District Court, depending on the situation.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge?

Yes. Even a misdemeanor can lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record. A record can affect your job, housing, and future. A dedicated lawyer may help reduce or dismiss the charge.

How long does a criminal case take in Prince George’s County?

It depends on the charge. Simple cases may resolve in a few months. Complex felony cases can take a year or more. Court schedules, plea deals, and trial dates all affect the timeline.

What should I do right away if I am charged with a crime?

Do not speak to police without a lawyer present. Stay calm. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Seeking legal help early can improve the chances of a fair outcome for your case.

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