Burglary Defense Lawyer Baltimore County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in Baltimore County is a serious felony under Maryland law, carrying severe penalties. As a burglary defense lawyer Baltimore County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the local procedures at the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Burglary Law and Penalties
In Maryland, burglary is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202. The law defines burglary as breaking and entering the dwelling of another with the intent to commit theft or a crime of violence. A conviction is a felony with significant consequences. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting provides an advantage in cases involving financial evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202 (official Maryland General Assembly). For court information, visit the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson website.
Baltimore County Court Process for Burglary Charges
Burglary cases in Baltimore County typically begin with an arrest and initial appearance before a District Court commissioner at 120 East Chesapeake Avenue, Towson, MD 21286. Felony burglary charges are then forwarded to the Baltimore County Circuit Court for indictment and potential jury trial. Prosecutors from the State’s Attorney for Baltimore County office handle these cases. A key local procedural fact is that while the District Court handles initial appearances, felony jury trials for burglary occur in Circuit Court. The State’s Attorney for Baltimore County prosecutes these cases, and dispositions like a Nolle Prosequi (dropped charges) or a favorable plea agreement are critical goals for a burglary charge defense lawyer Baltimore County.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: Appear before a District Court commissioner in Towson for bail determination.
- Preliminary Hearing: If charged by warrant, a hearing is held to determine probable cause.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: The case is presented to a grand jury; if indicted, you are arraigned in Baltimore County Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and negotiates with the State’s Attorney.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing occurs in Circuit Court, where arguments for mitigation are presented.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Baltimore County
In Baltimore County, a first-degree burglary conviction carries a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment, while second-degree burglary carries up to 10 years.
| 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 10 years | Up to $5,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of certain civil rights |
| Breaking and Entering a Storehouse | Felony | Up to 3 years | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record |
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 combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We focus on providing full representation. Our approach is case-specific, built on a deep understanding of local courts like the one in Towson.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of results. For example, in Baltimore County, we have secured outcomes such as a Nolle Prosequi (charges dropped) in a child pornography distribution case. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, collaborates with our team on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Baltimore County Burglary Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Maryland location serves clients at Baltimore County courts. We represent individuals from Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium. As a burglary defense lawyer Baltimore County, we are accessible to those needing representation near the District Court in Towson.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Maryland?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary requires breaking and entering a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime inside. Breaking and entering a storehouse (like a shed or garage) is a separate, often less severe, offense under Md. Code § 6-206. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Baltimore County can explain the specific elements of your charge.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Baltimore County?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. Prosecutors may agree to reduce a first-degree burglary charge to second-degree or to a breaking and entering charge through negotiation. Factors like lack of prior record, minimal property loss, or weaknesses in the state’s evidence can support a reduction. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Baltimore County can negotiate on your behalf.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a burglary charge?
Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) 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 and many felonies at District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Baltimore County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with penalties of up to 20 years in prison. An attorney at the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson can challenge the evidence, negotiate for a reduction or PBJ, or take the case to trial. The consequences of a conviction are too severe to face without experienced counsel.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime, mistaken identity, unlawful search and seizure of evidence, consent to enter the property, or that the alleged “breaking” did not occur. A burglary defense lawyer Baltimore County will investigate the police report and evidence to identify the strongest defense for your situation.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.