Burglary Defense Lawyer Baltimore — What Are Your Legal Options?
Burglary in Maryland is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202, carrying up to 20 years in prison. A burglary defense lawyer Baltimore from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the State’s evidence of unlawful entry and intent. Our firm has documented results defending clients in Baltimore County courts. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Maryland Burglary Law and Penalties
In Maryland, burglary is defined as breaking and entering the dwelling of another with the intent to commit theft or a crime of violence. The statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202, classifies it as a felony. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Baltimore understands that the prosecution must prove both the unauthorized entry and the specific criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how these charges are constructed and how to defend against them.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute text, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures and local rules for Baltimore County can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the District Court in Towson.
Defending Burglary Charges in Baltimore County
Baltimore County District Court in Towson handles initial appearances for burglary charges, while felony trials proceed in Baltimore County Circuit Court. Prosecutors must prove you broke into a dwelling with intent to commit a crime inside. A common defense is challenging the evidence of intent or arguing the entry was not unlawful. The State’s Attorney for Baltimore County actively pursues these cases.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner in Towson who sets bail. A lawyer can argue for personal recognizance or lower bail.
- Formal Charging: The State’s Attorney’s Office will file formal charges via indictment or information.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea in Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and challenge the sufficiency of the intent evidence.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction (e.g., to trespassing) or prepare a vigorous trial defense focusing on intent or unlawful entry.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for a sentence below the maximum, presenting mitigating factors.
In Baltimore County, a burglary conviction carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison, making early intervention by a burglary charge defense lawyer Baltimore critical.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Burglary in the Second Degree | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $10,000 | Same as above |
| Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle | Misdemeanor | Up to 3 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State builds its case. We use that insight to develop strong defenses. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results. We provide full representation, from bail hearings to trial.
Case Experience in Baltimore County
Our attorneys actively practice in Baltimore County courts. For example, our team has secured favorable outcomes in complex cases, such as obtaining a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal) for a client facing serious charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, collaborating with Of Counsel like Kristen Fisher to build the strongest possible defense for each client.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Baltimore County Burglary Defense Lawyers
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges in Baltimore County. We are accessible from I-695, I-83, and I-95. If you need a burglary defense lawyer near Towson or the Baltimore County courthouse, contact us for a consultation.
Neighborhoods Served: Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, Timonium.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for burglary in Baltimore County?
It depends. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict, avoiding a formal conviction. It is not available for all offenses and is at the judge’s discretion. A burglary defense lawyer Baltimore can advise if your case might qualify.
Can a burglary charge be expunged in Maryland?
Yes, but with limitations. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), or a Stet. A Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) disposition for burglary may be expunged after a 3-year waiting period. Convictions for burglary are generally not eligible for expungement under current law.
What happens after a burglary arrest in Baltimore County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner in Towson who sets bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if you are detained. The case then proceeds to arraignment and either plea negotiations or trial, often in Circuit Court for felony burglary charges.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with severe penalties. An experienced breaking and entering defense lawyer Baltimore can challenge the State’s evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, or defend you at trial. The procedural details and potential consequences make legal representation essential.
What’s the difference between burglary and trespassing?
Burglary requires breaking and entering into a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime inside. Trespassing is simply entering or remaining on property without permission. The key distinction is the specific criminal intent, which is often the main defense point in a burglary case.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in Montgomery County and with related issues like DUI defense in Baltimore.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.