Trespassing Defense Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Somerset County is a criminal offense under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for unlawful entry and trespass charges. Our trespassing defense lawyer Somerset County understands the local procedures at the District Court of MD for Somerset County. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your case.
Maryland Trespassing Law
Trespassing in Maryland is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-401 et seq. The law prohibits entering or crossing over the property of another person without authorization. Charges can range from a simple trespass, often a misdemeanor, to more serious offenses like trespass on posted property or with intent to commit a crime. The specific elements the prosecution must prove depend on the subsection you are charged under.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Somerset County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has built a practice focused on detailed criminal defense. Our background provides insight into how these cases are built by the State’s Attorney for Somerset County.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s trespassing statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. For local court procedures and forms, refer to the District Court of MD for Somerset County website.
Local Court Process for a Trespass Charge in Somerset County
All misdemeanor trespassing cases in Somerset County begin at the District Court located at 30512 Prince William Street in Princess Anne. A key local procedural fact is that the court frequently sees cases involving disputes between neighbors, misunderstandings about property boundaries, and situations where prior permission may have been revoked. An experienced trespass charge defense lawyer Somerset County can often negotiate for a favorable disposition like a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Receive a criminal summons or be arrested and taken before a District Court commissioner for bail determination.
- Attend your arraignment at District Court in Princess Anne, where you will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- If you plead not guilty, your case will be scheduled for a trial. Your attorney will file any necessary pretrial motions and engage in negotiations with the State’s Attorney.
- Proceed to a bench trial before a District Court judge or, if a favorable agreement is reached, enter into a plea agreement or PBJ.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Maryland
In Somerset County, a trespassing conviction can result in penalties including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record, depending on the specific charge and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing on Posted Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal record |
| Trespassing (General) | Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Criminal record |
| Trespassing with Intent to Commit a Crime | Misdemeanor (can be felony if underlying crime is felony) | Varies with underlying crime | Varies | Enhanced penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team, led by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is to examine every detail—was the property properly posted? Was there implied consent? Did the alleged trespass involve a domestic or neighbor dispute that could be resolved informally? We build defenses on these specifics.
Case Results
Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific results in Somerset County are part of our broader practice, our team, including Mr. Sris who provides strategic oversight on complex matters, has successfully defended against trespass and unlawful entry charges by challenging the state’s evidence of intent and lack of authorization.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Trespassing Defense Lawyer Near Somerset County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges at the Somerset County courts in Princess Anne. We are a trespassing defense lawyer near Somerset County for residents of Princess Anne, Crisfield, Westover, Marion Station, and Deal Island.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go to jail for trespassing in Somerset County?
Yes. Maryland law allows for jail time for trespassing convictions. A charge of trespassing on posted property is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Somerset County can work to mitigate this risk, often seeking alternatives like probation.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a trespass charge?
It is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors at District Court of MD for Somerset County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing misdemeanor?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment and housing. An attorney at District Court of MD for Somerset County can negotiate for a PBJ or dismissal. Our firm-wide practice has handled 4,739+ documented case results.
What’s the difference between trespassing and unlawful entry?
In Maryland, “unlawful entry” often refers to a specific type of trespass, typically under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 6-402, involving entering a dwelling or storage area. Both are serious, but unlawful entry may involve different elements and potentially higher penalties. A lawyer can analyze the exact statute cited in your charging document.
Can a trespassing charge be expunged in Maryland?
It depends. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after a 3-year waiting period). Qualifying non-violent convictions may also be expunged under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in Somerset County are expunged through the court where the case was heard.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing a trespassing charge, you may also want to learn about Maryland criminal defense. For representation in nearby areas, consider our Worcester County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal issues in Somerset County, we also assist with DUI defense and family law matters.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your trespassing defense in Somerset County.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.