Trespassing Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Prince George’s County is a criminal offense under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing unlawful entry and trespass charges at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
Maryland Trespassing Law & Penalties
Trespassing in Maryland is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-402. The law prohibits entering or crossing over the property of another person after receiving notice not to do so, either verbally, by posted signs, or through fencing. Unlawful entry defense lawyer Prince George’s County cases often involve disputes over property lines, misunderstandings, or allegations of entering a building without permission.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm combines over 120 years of legal experience. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in cases involving property disputes or technical evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s trespassing statute, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-402 (official Maryland General Assembly site). Court procedures and forms for Prince George’s County can be found at the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County website.
Local Court Process for a Trespass Charge
In Prince George’s County, all misdemeanor trespassing cases are handled at the District Court located at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ). For eligible first-time offenders, a trespassing defense lawyer Prince Georges County can often argue for a PBJ disposition, which avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After a citation or arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail conditions.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your attorney will review the state’s evidence, challenge the “notice” element of the trespass, and negotiate for a dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a District Court judge.
- Sentencing or PBJ: If found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence. If granted PBJ, you will be placed on probation.
- Expungement: After a 3-year waiting period, a PBJ disposition for trespassing may be eligible for expungement from your record.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Prince George’s County
In Prince George’s County, trespassing is typically a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $500, but penalties can increase for trespassing on certain secured premises.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing on Private Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal Conviction |
| Trespassing on School Grounds | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Criminal Conviction |
| Posting Signs (PBJ Disposition) | Misdemeanor | Probation (No conviction if completed) | Court Costs | Eligible for Expungement |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our trespass charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County practice is led by attorneys with direct experience in the Upper Marlboro courthouse. We understand that a trespassing charge can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses, and we work to protect your future.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results in criminal cases across Maryland. While specific results depend on unique case facts, our approach focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence that proper “notice” was given, negotiating for pre-trial diversions like PBJ, and advocating for our clients at trial when necessary. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and background in financial systems add depth to our defense team.
Local Trespassing Defense Representation
Our Maryland office represents clients in Prince George’s County. We serve communities including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
Address: Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland, 199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (Trespassing Defense)
Can I go to jail for trespassing in Prince George’s County?
Yes. Maryland law allows for up to 90 days in jail for basic trespassing, and up to 6 months for trespassing on school grounds. However, an experienced trespassing defense lawyer Prince Georges County can often negotiate for alternatives like probation, especially for first-time offenses.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for trespassing?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you complete probation successfully, you avoid a formal conviction on your record. PBJ is a common goal in trespass charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County cases for eligible clients.
How can a lawyer defend against a trespassing charge?
Defenses include lack of proper notice (no signs or verbal warning), mistake of fact (believing you had permission), or challenging the evidence that you were the person who trespassed. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Prince George’s County will investigate the scene, interview witnesses, and file motions to suppress weak evidence.
Will a trespassing charge appear on a background check?
Yes, if it results in a conviction. A guilty finding for trespassing is a public criminal record. This is why seeking a PBJ or dismissal is critical. A PBJ does not count as a conviction for most background checks after probation is completed.
Should I just plead guilty to get it over with?
No. Pleading guilty guarantees a criminal record and potential penalties. Consulting with a trespassing defense lawyer Prince Georges County first allows you to understand all options, including defenses and diversion programs that may completely avoid a conviction.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles general criminal defense in Prince George’s County, DUI/DWI defense, and family law matters. For a broader view of our Maryland practice, visit our Maryland criminal defense hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Howard County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.