Burglary Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Anne Arundel County is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202, carrying up to 20 years imprisonment. A burglary defense lawyer Anne Arundel County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the State’s evidence on intent and unlawful entry. Our firm has documented results in Anne Arundel County District and Circuit Courts.
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 core statute is Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202. The prosecution must prove you entered without permission and had the specific intent to commit a crime inside at the time of entry. This is a key area for a burglary charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County to attack.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s burglary statutes, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures and local rules for Anne Arundel County can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County.
Anne Arundel County Court Process for Burglary Charges
Burglary cases in Anne Arundel County begin with an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner at 251 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis, who sets bail. Felony burglary charges are then forwarded to the Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney for indictment. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Anne Arundel County must be prepared for proceedings in both District Court (for preliminary matters) and Circuit Court (for felony trials).
- Initial Appearance & Bail Hearing: You will appear before a District Court commissioner within 24 hours of arrest.
- Preliminary Hearing: If charged by statement of charges, a hearing is held in District Court to determine probable cause.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The State’s Attorney presents evidence to a grand jury; if indicted, the case moves to Circuit Court.
- Arraignment in Circuit Court: You formally hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Pretrial Motions & Negotiations: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and negotiates with prosecutors.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Anne Arundel County
In Anne Arundel County, a first-degree burglary conviction is a felony with a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
| 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 | Same as above |
| Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle | Misdemeanor | Up to 3 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Anne Arundel County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State builds its cases. We focus on a case-specific approach for every client facing serious charges like burglary.
Case Results
Our firm-wide practice has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While results are always case-specific, our team, including Mr. Sris, has a long record of defending against serious felony charges. We examine every detail, from the legality of the police investigation to the validity of witness identification.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Anne Arundel County Burglary Defense Lawyers
Our Maryland location serves clients in Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, and Odenton. We are accessible via I-97, Route 50, and Route 2.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Maryland?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary requires proof of intent to commit a theft or crime of violence at the time of entry. Breaking and entering can be charged if an illegal entry is made, even without that specific intent. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can argue the lack of specific intent.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Anne Arundel County?
It depends on the evidence and your history. Prosecutors may agree to reduce a first-degree burglary charge to a lesser offense like trespassing or second-degree burglary in exchange for a plea. This is a common goal for a burglary charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County, as it significantly lowers potential penalties.
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 burglary charges, it is less common for first-degree felonies. Eligibility depends on the facts and your record. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with severe, long-term consequences. An experienced burglary defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can protect your rights, challenge the State’s evidence on intent and entry, and work toward the best possible outcome in District or Circuit Court.
For related legal help, see our pages on Montgomery County criminal defense and Anne Arundel County DUI defense. Return to our Maryland criminal defense hub.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.