Burglary Defense Lawyer in Rockville, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
A burglary charge in Rockville is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 6-202, carrying up to 20 years in prison. A burglary defense lawyer Rockville from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm, founded in 1997, has former prosecutors on staff who understand how these cases are built and challenged in Montgomery County courts.
Maryland Burglary Law and Penalties
In Maryland, burglary is defined as 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 penalties depend on factors like the type of building, whether it was occupied, and if a weapon was involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
For official Maryland statutes, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures are handled at the District Court of Maryland website.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a burglary charge defense lawyer Rockville immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports, witness statements, and any video evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure, a common defense strategy.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate for a reduction to a lesser charge like trespassing or proceed to trial to fight the felony allegation.
In Rockville, a first-degree burglary conviction can result in a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, while second-degree burglary carries up to 15 years, plus 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, probation, restitution |
| 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 Rockville Burglary Defense Attorneys
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that a burglary charge can upend your life, and we work to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. Our approach is grounded in a deep analysis of the evidence and a strategic challenge to the prosecution’s case.
Our team, including firm founder and former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. We examine every detail, from the legality of the police investigation to the credibility of the evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Rockville location serves clients at Montgomery County courts and is accessible via I-270, I-495, and Route 355 (Rockville Pike). We are a burglary defense lawyer near Rockville Town Square and the Montgomery County Government Center, serving neighborhoods including Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, and Potomac. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in Rockville
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 itself. “Burglary” requires that unlawful entry plus the intent to commit a crime (like theft) inside. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Rockville can argue the prosecution failed to prove that specific criminal intent.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the facts of your case and your criminal history. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Rockville can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing or malicious destruction of property, which carry lower penalties and may avoid a felony record.
What is a common defense to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered without planning to commit a crime), mistaken identity, unlawful search and seizure (suppressing key evidence), or permission to be on the property. Your attorney will identify the strongest defense based on the evidence.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Rockville?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with severe, life-altering penalties. The public defender is an option if you qualify, but a private burglary defense lawyer Rockville can often provide more dedicated time and resources to build a strong, case-specific defense strategy.
What happens at the first court date for a burglary charge?
At the initial appearance or arraignment in District Court, the charges will be formally read, and you will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Your attorney can argue for your release on personal recognizance or reasonable bail. For felonies, the case may later be sent to Circuit Court.
Internal Resources
For more information on related legal matters, you can explore our Maryland Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Anne Arundel County. If you are facing other charges, consider reading about Criminal Defense in Montgomery County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.