Burglary Defense Lawyer Baltimore — What Are Your Legal Options?
Burglary in Baltimore County is a serious felony under Maryland law, carrying severe penalties. A burglary defense lawyer Baltimore from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides critical defense at the District Court of MD for Baltimore County in Towson. Our firm has extensive experience defending against breaking and entering charges. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your case.
Maryland Burglary Law and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, burglary is defined under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202. The crime involves breaking and entering into a dwelling, storehouse, or other specified building with the intent to commit theft or another crime. The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend on factors such as whether the building was occupied, if a weapon was used, or if assault occurred during the act. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Baltimore can analyze the specific facts of your case to identify the applicable statute and potential defenses.
External Legal Resources
For the official Maryland statute, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202. Court procedures and filing information for Baltimore County can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the Towson District Court.
Baltimore County Court Procedures for Burglary Charges
Burglary cases in Baltimore County typically begin with an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. Felony burglary charges are then forwarded to the Baltimore County Circuit Court for indictment and potential jury trial. The State’s Attorney for Baltimore County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that while the District Court in Towson handles initial appearances, felony trials occur in Circuit Court. Prosecutors often seek severe penalties, making early intervention by a burglary charge defense lawyer Baltimore critical.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will appear before a District Court commissioner in Towson for bail determination following arrest.
- Preliminary Hearing/Indictment: For felony burglary, the case proceeds to a grand jury for indictment in Baltimore County Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea in Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and may file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will be imposed by a Circuit Court judge, potentially involving state prison time.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Baltimore County
In Baltimore County, burglary carries penalties ranging from years of imprisonment to substantial fines, with first-degree burglary being the most severe.
| 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, loss of certain civil rights. |
| Burglary in the Third Degree | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $5,000 | Permanent felony record. |
| Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle | Misdemeanor | Up to 3 years | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution for damages. |
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 like Kristen Fisher, who provide insider knowledge of how the State builds its cases. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, maintains a strategic oversight role on complex cases, ensuring a multi-layered defense approach for clients facing serious felony charges like burglary.
Case Results in Baltimore County
Our attorneys actively defend clients in Baltimore County courts. While every case is unique, our approach is informed by a history of favorable outcomes in serious criminal matters. For example, our firm has secured results including dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) and favorable plea agreements in complex cases. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Baltimore County Burglary Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Baltimore County, including Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium. We represent clients at the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson (120 East Chesapeake Avenue).
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and robbery in Maryland?
Burglary involves unlawfully entering a structure with intent to commit a crime, often theft. Robbery involves taking property from a person through force or threat of force. Burglary is a property crime; robbery is a crime against a person. Both are serious felonies requiring a burglary defense lawyer Baltimore.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Baltimore County?
It depends. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Baltimore may negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a first-degree burglary to a lesser charge like second-degree burglary or even trespassing, depending on the evidence, your criminal history, and the specifics of the alleged break-in. Outcomes depend on case details.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside, mistaken identity, consent to enter the property, insufficient evidence of a “breaking,” or challenging the legality of the police investigation (e.g., an illegal search). A breaking and entering defense lawyer Baltimore will investigate all angles.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with potential for decades in prison. The legal process is complex, involving bail hearings, grand juries, and severe penalties. A burglary defense lawyer Baltimore is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and seek the best possible outcome.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for burglary?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where a guilty finding is stayed while you complete probation. It avoids a formal conviction. However, PBJ is rarely granted for serious felonies like first-degree burglary but may be possible for lower-degree charges or under unique circumstances argued by your attorney.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.