Burglary Defense Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Legal Options?
Burglary in Somerset County is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202, carrying up to 20 years in prison. A burglary defense lawyer Somerset County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the State’s evidence on intent and unlawful entry.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Somerset County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, burglary is defined as breaking and entering the dwelling of another with the intent to commit a crime inside. The statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202, classifies burglary in the first degree as a felony with severe penalties. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you unlawfully entered a structure and possessed the specific intent to commit a theft or another crime at the time of entry. Defenses often focus on lack of intent, mistaken identity, or challenging the legality of law enforcement’s actions. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how these charges are built and how to counter them.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Maryland’s burglary laws, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly site). For local court procedures, visit the District Court of MD for Somerset County website.
Local Defense Strategy for Somerset County
In Somerset County, burglary cases are prosecuted by the State’s Attorney’s Office. All initial appearances and misdemeanor trials occur at the District Court at 30512 Prince William Street in Princess Anne. A key local procedural fact is that the court routinely considers Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) dispositions for certain non-violent offenses, which can avoid a formal conviction on your record. For a burglary charge defense lawyer Somerset County, early intervention is critical to investigate the scene, interview witnesses, and file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will request discovery from the State’s Attorney to review all evidence.
- File pre-trial motions, such as a motion to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction in charges or a favorable disposition like PBJ.
- Prepare for trial, focusing on challenging the elements of breaking, entering, and intent.
- If convicted, advocate for mitigated sentencing or explore appeal options.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Maryland
In Somerset County, a burglary conviction carries severe penalties including lengthy prison terms, fines, and a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Burglary in the Second Degree | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $3,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, possible restitution |
| Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle | Misdemeanor | Up to 3 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, restitution for damages |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Maryland criminal law and local Somerset County court procedures. We focus on building a strong, evidence-based defense from the moment you contact us.
Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While specific Somerset County results vary, our team, which includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher and managing attorney Mr. Sris, applies this extensive experience to every burglary and breaking and entering defense. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, maintains a selective caseload to provide strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Somerset County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients facing charges in Somerset County. We are accessible to communities like Princess Anne, Crisfield, and Westover. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only at our Rockville location: 199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in Somerset County
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Maryland?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary requires the intent to commit a crime inside the structure at the time of entry. Breaking and entering, often charged under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-206, is the unlawful entry itself without the need to prove further criminal intent, making a breaking and entering defense lawyer Somerset County essential.
Can I get a burglary charge expunged in Somerset County?
It depends. Maryland’s Justice Reinvestment Act expanded expungement, but most felony burglary convictions are not eligible. However, dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), Nolle Prosequi (dropped charges), Stet, or acquittals can be expunged. A lawyer can review your specific case outcome to determine eligibility.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a burglary charge?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you complete probation successfully, no formal conviction is entered on your record. PBJ is available for many misdemeanors and some felonies at the District Court of MD for Somerset County and can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Somerset County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with penalties up to 20 years in prison. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Somerset County is vital to challenge the evidence, negotiate for reduced charges or PBJ, and protect your rights at the District Court in Princess Anne.
What happens after a burglary arrest in Somerset County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case will then proceed to arraignment and trial in District Court (misdemeanor) or go to Somerset County Circuit Court for a felony jury trial.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page, explore related services like DUI defense in Somerset County, or read about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background.
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.