Burglary Defense Lawyer Baltimore — What Are Your Legal Options?
Burglary in Baltimore is a serious felony under Maryland law, carrying potential prison time and lasting consequences. A burglary defense lawyer Baltimore from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm has documented results in Baltimore County courts. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Maryland Burglary Law
In Maryland, burglary is defined as breaking and entering into a dwelling, storehouse, or other specified building with the intent to commit theft, a crime of violence, or arson. The severity of the charge depends on factors like whether the building was occupied at the time and if a weapon was involved. The statute is found in Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s burglary statute, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures for Baltimore County are handled at the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson.
Baltimore County Burglary Defense Process
Burglary cases in Baltimore County typically begin with an arrest and an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. The case is then scheduled for trial. Because burglary is a felony, the case may be bound over to the Baltimore County Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors must prove you entered the building without permission and had the specific intent to commit a crime inside. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Baltimore can challenge the evidence of intent or the legality of the entry.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: Appear before a commissioner for bail determination within 24 hours of arrest.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felony charges, a hearing is held to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: Enter a formal plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest in the appropriate court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and negotiates with the State’s Attorney for a potential plea to a lesser charge.
- Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on guidelines and arguments from your attorney.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Maryland
In Baltimore, burglary carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines, with the degree of the charge heavily influencing the potential consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Degree Burglary (occupied dwelling, weapon used) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Second-Degree Burglary (storehouse, unoccupied dwelling) | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent felony record, probation, restitution |
| Third-Degree Burglary (breaking into a motor vehicle) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent felony record |
| Fourth-Degree Burglary (possessing burglar’s tools) | Misdemeanor | Up to 3 years | Up to $5,000 | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Charge
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled over 4,739 documented case results with a firm-wide favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both prosecution tactics and defense strategy.
Case Results in Baltimore County
Our firm actively practices in Baltimore County courts. Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. For example, our attorneys have secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in serious cases. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Baltimore County Burglary Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges in Baltimore County. We represent individuals in Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium. If you need a burglary charge defense lawyer Baltimore, we are accessible. 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 the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Maryland?
It depends. “Breaking and entering” is often the act of illegally entering a structure. Burglary requires that illegal entry plus the specific intent to commit a crime inside, like theft. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Baltimore can argue the evidence does not prove the required criminal intent.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Baltimore County?
Yes. An experienced burglary defense lawyer Baltimore can often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a felony burglary charge to a lesser offense like trespassing or theft, which carry lower penalties and may avoid a felony record. Success depends on the case facts and your attorney’s skill.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a burglary charge?
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 many offenses at the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Baltimore County?
Yes. Maryland burglary charges are serious felonies with penalties up to 20 years in prison. A burglary charge defense lawyer Baltimore is essential to protect your rights, challenge the state’s evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, or take your case to trial. The financial and personal consequences of a conviction are severe.
What happens after a burglary arrest in Baltimore County?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court. Felony burglary cases go to Baltimore County Circuit Court for jury trial.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related charges like Theft Defense in Baltimore. For defense in nearby areas, consider our Montgomery County Criminal Defense Lawyer.
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.