Burglary Defense Lawyer in Charles County, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
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 Charles County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides critical defense at the District Court of MD for Charles County. Our firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Charles County | Maryland General Assembly
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. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Charles County understands that the prosecution must prove you entered without permission and had a specific criminal intent at the time of entry. The charge is often paired with theft, making the potential consequences severe.
In Charles County, burglary is prosecuted by the State’s Attorney’s Office and can be heard in either District Court (for lesser degrees) or Circuit Court for felony jury trials. The court at 200 Charles Street, La Plata, MD 20646 handles initial appearances and misdemeanor trials.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally or challenge the sufficiency of the charges.
- Negotiation or Trial: Most cases resolve through plea negotiations for a reduced charge like trespassing. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on guidelines, which may include probation, home detention, or incarceration.
In Charles County, a burglary conviction carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000, with enhanced penalties for burglary with a deadly weapon or of an occupied dwelling.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing, loss of firearm rights. |
| Burglary in the Second Degree | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Same as above, but may be eligible for Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in some cases. |
| Burglary with a Deadly Weapon | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Mandatory minimum sentences often apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Charles County Burglary Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a firm-wide track record of 4,739+ documented case results, we bring a depth of knowledge to every burglary case in Charles County. Our approach is grounded in a thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy from the initial bail hearing through final disposition.
Our team also includes firm founder Mr. Sris, whose background as a former prosecutor and in accounting provides a strategic advantage in cases involving theft or property crimes. His multi-state practice across VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY informs a full defense strategy.
Case Results & Local Practice
While specific Charles County burglary results are confidential, our firm-wide results demonstrate our capability. We have successfully defended clients against serious felony charges, securing outcomes such as case dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), reductions to misdemeanor trespassing, and favorable plea agreements that avoid incarceration.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Charles County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges at the District Court of MD for Charles County in La Plata. We represent individuals in La Plata, Waldorf, Indian Head, White Plains, Bryans Road, and Hughesville.
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.
Burglary Defense FAQs for Charles County
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Maryland?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary requires breaking and entering with the intent to commit a theft or crime of violence inside. Simple breaking and entering, without proof of that specific intent, is a lesser charge under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202. A burglary defense lawyer Charles County can argue the state cannot prove intent.
Can I get Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a burglary charge in Charles County?
It depends. PBJ is more common for second-degree burglary or if the case is reduced to a misdemeanor like trespassing. For first-degree burglary or cases involving weapons, PBJ is unlikely. An attorney can negotiate for a reduction that makes PBJ a possibility, avoiding a formal conviction on your record.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Charles County?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a burglary charge defense lawyer Charles County as soon as possible to begin building your defense, starting with the bail hearing. Provide your attorney with all details, but do not speak to law enforcement without counsel present.
How long does a burglary case take in Charles County?
A misdemeanor burglary case in District Court may resolve in 30-90 days. A felony burglary case in Circuit Court can take 3-12 months or longer, especially if it goes to a jury trial. The Hicks date (180-day speedy trial rule) applies to felony jury trials from your first appearance.
What defenses are common in burglary cases?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered for another reason), mistaken identity, lack of evidence of a “breaking,” consent to enter, and unlawful search and seizure. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Charles County will examine police reports and evidence to identify the strongest defense for your situation.
For more information on related charges, see our pages on Charles County criminal defense and theft defense. Our Maryland criminal defense hub provides an overview of state laws.
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.