Trespassing Defense Lawyer in Charles County, Maryland
A trespassing charge in Charles County is a criminal offense under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for unlawful entry charges at the District Court of MD for Charles County.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Charles County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Trespassing Law
In Maryland, trespassing is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-401 et seq. The law prohibits entering or remaining on property without the owner’s consent. Charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on factors like intent, the type of property (e.g., dwelling, school, government building), and whether the entry was for a malicious purpose. A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, affecting employment and housing.
For a trespass charge defense lawyer Charles County, understanding the specific allegations is critical. Was there a posted “no trespassing” sign? Did a property owner previously warn you to leave? The prosecution must prove you knowingly entered or remained without authorization.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s trespassing statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. For Charles County court procedures and locations, refer to the District Court of Maryland directory.
Defending a Trespass Charge in Charles County Court
At the District Court of MD for Charles County (200 Charles Street, La Plata), prosecutors routinely pursue trespassing charges. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ). For eligible defendants, PBJ allows the court to place you on probation without entering a guilty conviction on your public record. Successfully completing probation can lead to the case being expunged after a three-year waiting period.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if your rights were violated.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the State’s Attorney for Charles County for a favorable disposition, such as a dismissal, PBJ, or reduction to a lesser offense.
- Trial Preparation: If no agreement is reached, your attorney will prepare a defense for a bench trial before a District Court judge.
- Trial & Disposition: The judge hears evidence and renders a verdict. If found guilty, sentencing follows.
- Post-Trial Options: This may include filing an appeal to the Charles County Circuit Court or pursuing expungement if eligible.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Maryland
In Charles County, trespassing penalties vary by the specific offense but can include jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespass on Posted Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal Conviction |
| Trespass in a Dwelling | Misdemeanor | Up to 3 years | Up to $5,000 | Criminal Conviction |
| Trespass on School Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Criminal Conviction |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Charles County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years, with more than 4,739 documented case results and a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. For an unlawful entry defense lawyer Charles County residents can rely on, our team understands the local legal field.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific trespassing case results are confidential, our firm’s approach in Charles County focuses on achieving the best possible outcome, such as PBJ or dismissal. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every client benefits from deep legal experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Charles County Trespassing Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Maryland location serves clients in Charles County, including La Plata, Waldorf, and Indian Head. We are accessible via Route 301 and Route 5. If you need a trespassing defense lawyer near Charles County courts, contact us for a consultation.
Trespassing Defense FAQs for Charles County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Charles County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors, including trespassing, at the District Court of MD for Charles County. After successful probation, the case can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get a trespassing charge expunged in Charles County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). If you were convicted of trespassing, expungement may be possible under the Justice Reinvestment Act for certain non-violent offenses. An attorney can review your specific case to determine eligibility.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing misdemeanor in Charles County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor trespassing charge can carry up to 90 days in jail and a permanent criminal record. An attorney at the District Court of MD for Charles County can negotiate for PBJ (no conviction) or a dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without legal representation.
What should I do if I am charged with trespassing in Charles County?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a trespass charge defense lawyer Charles County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, such as photos, messages, or witness information, that shows you had permission to be on the property or that no proper “no trespassing” notice was posted.
What defenses are available against a trespassing charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge (you didn’t know you were trespassing), owner consent, an insufficient or missing “no trespassing” sign, or mistaken identity. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Charles County can evaluate the facts and evidence to build the strongest defense for your situation.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub, or learn about defense in Montgomery County. In Charles County, we also assist with DUI charges and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.