Trespassing Defense Lawyer in Wicomico County, MD — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Wicomico County is a criminal offense under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for unlawful entry charges at the District Court of MD for Wicomico County.
Maryland Trespassing Law and Penalties
In Maryland, trespassing is primarily governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-402. The law prohibits entering or crossing over the property of another after receiving notice not to do so, either verbally, through posted signs, or by fencing. The severity of the charge often depends on the type of property and the defendant’s intent.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Wicomico County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how trespassing cases are investigated and prosecuted in Wicomico County, from initial police reports to court proceedings.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website (Criminal Law § 6-402). Court information for Wicomico County can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the District Court of MD for Wicomico County.
Local Court Process for a Trespass Charge in Wicomico County
Your trespass case will begin at the District Court of MD for Wicomico County located at 201 Baptist Street, Suite 100, Salisbury. A key local procedural fact is that Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) disposition is often a critical goal in trespassing cases, as it can avoid a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your attorney will review the state’s evidence, challenge the legality of the “notice” given, and negotiate for a reduction or dismissal.
- Motion to Suppress: If the police lacked probable cause for arrest or violated your rights, we can file a motion to have evidence thrown out.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, we will prepare for a bench trial before a judge. The goal is often to secure a PBJ or a stet (inactive docket) disposition.
- Sentencing or Probation: If convicted, we advocate for minimal penalties. If PBJ is granted, we ensure you understand all probation terms to avoid a later conviction.
- Expungement: After a PBJ waiting period (3 years) or for a dismissal, we can file to have the case expunged from your public record.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Wicomico County
In Wicomico County, trespassing on posted property is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. Trespassing on a school or government property can lead to more severe penalties.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing on Posted Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Trespassing on School Grounds | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | None | Enhanced penalties, possible protective order |
| Unlawful Entry (Dwelling) | Misdemeanor / 4th Degree Burglary | Up to 3 years | Up to $1,000 | None | Felony-level penalties possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Trespassing Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that a trespass charge defense lawyer Wicomico County residents trust must be both aggressive and strategic, focusing on the specific details of the alleged unlawful entry.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our trespassing defense lawyer Wicomico County team actively practices in the local courts. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements. For example, our attorneys have successfully argued for dismissals where the state could not prove adequate “notice” was given, and have negotiated PBJ dispositions to protect clients’ records. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides a unique advantage in cases involving technical or property boundary disputes.
Local Representation for Wicomico County Residents
Our Maryland location serves clients at Wicomico County courts. We are accessible via Route 50, Route 13, and Route 349, serving Salisbury, Fruitland, Delmar, Mardela Springs, Sharptown, and Pittsville. If you need a trespass charge defense lawyer Wicomico County residents rely on, we are here to help.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Trespassing Defense in Wicomico County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Wicomico County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors, including trespassing, at District Court of MD for Wicomico County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get a trespassing charge expunged in Wicomico County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). If your trespassing case resulted in one of these outcomes, you can petition the District Court of MD for Wicomico County for expungement to remove it from public view.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor trespassing charge in Wicomico County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor trespass carries up to 90 days in jail and a permanent record. An attorney at District Court of MD for Wicomico County can negotiate for PBJ (no conviction) or a dismissal, protecting your future. The potential consequences far outweigh the cost of representation.
What is the difference between trespassing and unlawful entry in Maryland?
In Maryland, general trespassing involves entering property after being told not to. “Unlawful entry” often refers to entering a dwelling or structure and can be charged as a more serious offense, sometimes overlapping with 4th-degree burglary, which carries penalties of up to 3 years in prison.
What happens after a trespassing arrest in Wicomico 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) pre-trial negotiations or trial. Misdemeanor trespassing cases are tried at the District Court of MD for Wicomico County in Salisbury.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page, or learn about related issues like assault charges in Wicomico County. We also serve neighboring areas like Anne Arundel County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal advice regarding your trespassing charge.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.