District Court Unit

Overview

The District Court Unit handles nearly all misdemeanor offenses in Prince George’s County, managing approximately 30,000 criminal cases each year. These cases include a wide range of offenses such as drug-related crimes, burglary, theft, trespassing, assault, and incarcerable traffic violations.

To effectively manage this volume and ensure fair outcomes, the Unit is supported by several specialized divisions and problem-solving courts, including:

• Citizen Screening Division
• Mental Health Court
• Drug Court
• Economic Crimes Division
• Municipal Infractions Unit
• DUI Unit, including non-felony fatality cases

The Unit operates in both the Hyattsville and Upper Marlboro courthouses.

Trials and Appeals

Defendants charged with misdemeanor offenses carrying a potential sentence of more than 90 days of incarceration have the right to request a jury trial.

In cases where a conviction occurs in District Court, defendants also have the right to appeal. These appeals are conducted as new trials in Circuit Court.

District Court prosecutors handle:

• Criminal Jury Trial (CJ) cases
• Criminal Appeal (CA) cases

These matters are typically scheduled in Circuit Court approximately every six weeks.

Diversion Programs

Prosecutors are strongly encouraged to utilize the Unit’s diversion programs and alternative resolutions when appropriate. These programs are a key component of reducing recidivism, promoting rehabilitation, and ensuring equitable outcomes.

Contact Us

For more information about the District Court Unit, please contact:

ASA LaShanata Harris
Chief, District Court Unit
LRHarris@co.pg.md.us