State Criminal Defense & Investigations
Silverman Thompson was founded in 1994 by Managing Partner Steven D. Silverman, a former felony public defender, with a vision to build an elite trial and litigation firm rooted in government experience. The goal was to assemble a team of highly skilled criminal trial lawyers whose daily courtroom experience would translate into exceptional defense strategies. Today, our team includes former U.S. and state attorneys, along with seasoned felony public defenders who bring a wealth of insight to every case.
Leading the Team: Brian Thompson
Our state criminal defense practice is led by Brian Thompson, a former prosecutor who has dedicated his career exclusively to criminal defense since 1998. With a proven record in defending thousands of clients facing charges from misdemeanors to serious felonies, including murder, Mr. Thompson brings a unique depth of knowledge and commitment to each case.
Top-Ranked in Maryland
Recognized as Maryland’s top criminal defense firm by over 25,000 legal professionals and readers of The Maryland Daily Record every year from 2018 through 2024, Silverman Thompson’s track record speaks volumes. With over 1,000 court appearances each year, we deliver unmatched expertise and results. Our team includes:
- 10 former prosecutors
- 4 former Assistant U.S. Attorneys
- 3 former public defenders
- 7 adjunct law professors and a former dean of the University of Baltimore School of Law
- 1 retired federal judge
We also honor the legacy of our late partner, Judge Joseph Murphy, Jr., a Supreme Court of Maryland Judge and esteemed author of The Maryland Evidence Handbook.
Comprehensive State-Level Criminal Defense
Our attorneys handle an extensive range of state-level criminal defense cases, including but not limited to:
Our Team Approach
Choosing Silverman Thompson means enlisting a dedicated team of criminal defense specialists, not just a single attorney. Our lawyers bring a collective wealth of experience in prosecution, public defense, and legal education, and they are deeply committed to defending the rights of our clients. We take a team approach to every case, ensuring that the right strategies and best decisions are implemented at every stage.
With daily presence in the courtroom, our attorneys build and maintain key relationships with prosecutors, judges, and court staff, which enables us to secure the best possible outcomes. From high-profile cases representing prominent public figures, including the former Mayor of Baltimore and a former President of the United States, to sensitive, private matters, we bring unparalleled commitment to each client.
Silverman Thompson is proud to be Maryland’s leader in criminal defense, offering comprehensive and exceptional representation for every case. For a consultation, please contact Brian Thompson at 410.659.9930 or bthompson@silvermanthompson.com.
Meet Our Criminal Defense Team
