Burglary Defense Lawyer Howard County — Protecting Your Rights
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 Howard County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is critical for handling the District Court of MD for Howard County. Our firm has extensive experience defending against breaking and entering charges in Columbia and Ellicott City.
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 severity of the charge and penalties depend on factors like whether the building was occupied, the time of day, and whether a weapon was involved. First-degree burglary is the most serious classification.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how prosecutors in Howard County build these cases. A strong defense often hinges on challenging the evidence of “breaking” and proving a lack of intent to commit a crime inside.
Official Legal Resources
- Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly)
- District Court of MD for Howard County website
Howard County Court Process for Burglary Charges
Burglary cases in Howard County begin with an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. For a felony burglary charge, defense lawyer Howard County representation is essential at the preliminary hearing and subsequent proceedings in Howard County Circuit Court. The State’s Attorney for Howard County aggressively prosecutes these cases.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will be taken before a commissioner at the District Court in Ellicott City for bail determination. An attorney can argue for your release.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felony charges, this hearing determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Arraignment in Circuit Court: You will be formally charged and enter a plea. This is a critical stage for filing pre-trial motions.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence, interview witnesses, and investigate the scene to build your defense.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no fair offer is made, your case will proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the circumstances.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Howard County
In Howard County, a burglary conviction carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent felony record.
| 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 | Permanent felony record |
| Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle | Misdemeanor | Up to 3 years | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Howard County Burglary Defense Team
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 provide vigorous, case-specific defense for clients facing serious felony allegations.
Case Results & Firm Experience
While every case is unique, our firm’s approach is consistent: thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy. For example, our attorneys have successfully argued for the suppression of evidence obtained through improper police procedure, skilled to dismissed charges. In other cases, we have negotiated reductions from felony burglary to misdemeanor trespassing.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law demonstrate a deep commitment to legal excellence.
Contact Our Howard County Burglary 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 Rockville location serves clients throughout Howard County, including Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, and Savage. We are accessible via I-95, Route 29, and Route 32. If you need a burglary defense lawyer near Howard County courts, contact us for a confidential case review.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Defense in Howard County
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Maryland?
Yes, there is a key difference. “Breaking and entering” generally refers to the unlawful entry into a building. “Burglary” requires that breaking and entering be done with the specific intent to commit a theft or crime of violence inside. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Howard County can analyze the evidence to challenge the intent element, which is often the weakest part of the prosecution’s case.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Howard County?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Howard County may negotiate a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing or malicious destruction of property, especially for first-time offenders or cases with weak evidence of intent. Outcomes depend on the specific facts, your history, and the strength of the defense presented.
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. While possible for some second-degree burglary charges, it is uncommon for serious first-degree felonies. If successfully completed, PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record. Eligibility is complex and requires skilled legal argument.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Howard County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with severe, life-altering penalties. The legal process is complex, and the State’s Attorney will be represented by experienced prosecutors. An attorney protects your rights, investigates the charge, challenges evidence, and works toward the best possible outcome. The stakes are too high to proceed without counsel.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Howard County?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a burglary defense lawyer Howard County as soon as possible. Your attorney will guide you through the bail process, begin the investigation, and start building your defense strategy from the very first court appearance.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing burglary charges, you may also want to learn about Maryland criminal defense. For charges in nearby areas, see our pages for Montgomery County criminal defense and Prince George’s County criminal defense. For other legal needs in Howard County, we also assist with DUI/DWI and family law matters.
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.