Trespassing Defense Lawyer Queen Annes County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Queen Anne’s County, Maryland, is a criminal offense under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-402, carrying potential jail time and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of unlawful entry.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Queen Anne’s County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, trespassing is defined as entering or remaining on property without the owner’s consent. The specific statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-402, outlines the elements the prosecution must prove. Defending against a trespass charge often involves challenging whether you had notice that entry was forbidden or if you had a legitimate reason to be present. An experienced unlawful entry defense lawyer Queen Anne’s County can examine the details of your case, such as signage, prior warnings, or your intent at the time.
Queen Anne’s County District Court handles all misdemeanor trespassing trials. A key local procedural fact is the availability of dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which can avoid a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction may be willing to negotiate such outcomes, especially for first-time offenses.
- Contact a trespassing defense lawyer immediately after being charged.
- Your attorney will obtain the police report and any witness statements.
- We will review the evidence for weaknesses, such as lack of proper notice or permission.
- We will represent you at all court dates at 100 Court House Square, Centreville, MD 21617, seeking dismissal, PBJ, or a favorable plea.
In Queen Anne’s County, trespassing can be charged as a misdemeanor with penalties of up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense; subsequent offenses or trespass on posted agricultural or school property can increase penalties.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing (First Offense) | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Trespassing on Posted Agricultural Land | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | None | Potential civil liability |
| Trespassing on School Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | None | Enhanced penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight aggressively for every client in Queen Anne’s County.
Our trespassing defense lawyer Queen Annes County team has handled numerous criminal cases in the region. For example, our attorneys have secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in other Maryland counties for charges including theft and assault. Firm-wide, Mr. Sris and our team have a documented record of achieving favorable resolutions.
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
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Maryland office represents clients in Queen Anne’s County. We serve communities including Centreville, Queenstown, Grasonville, Stevensville, Chester, and Church Hill. If you need a trespass charge defense lawyer Queen Anne’s County, we are accessible and ready to help.
FAQs: Trespassing Defense in Queen Anne’s County
Is trespassing a felony in Maryland?
No. Most trespassing offenses in Maryland are misdemeanors. However, penalties can include jail time and fines, and a conviction creates a permanent criminal record.
What is the best defense against a trespassing charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include having the owner’s permission, lacking notice that entry was forbidden (e.g., no signage), or having a legitimate purpose for being on the property. An experienced trespassing defense lawyer Queen Annes County can identify the strongest argument for your case.
Can a trespassing charge be expunged in Maryland?
Yes, under certain conditions. Acquittals, dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), and Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) dispositions are eligible for expungement after a waiting period. The Maryland Courts website provides details on the expungement process.
Should I just plead guilty to a trespassing charge to get it over with?
No. Pleading guilty guarantees a conviction and its consequences. An attorney can often negotiate a better outcome, such as PBJ, which avoids a conviction, or may even get the charge dismissed.
What happens at the first court date for trespassing?
At the arraignment in District Court of MD for Queen Anne’s County, you will be formally advised of the charge and can enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Having an unlawful entry defense lawyer Queen Anne’s County present allows you to plead not guilty and immediately begin building your defense.
For more information on related legal issues, see our pages on Maryland Criminal Defense, Criminal Defense in Montgomery County, and DUI Defense in Queen Anne’s County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. 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.