Burglary Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Prince George’s County is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202, carrying up to 20 years in prison. A burglary defense lawyer Prince Georges County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides critical defense at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. Our firm has documented results in this jurisdiction. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Maryland Burglary Law and Penalties
In Maryland, burglary is defined as breaking and entering the dwelling of another with the intent to commit a crime inside. The severity of the charge depends on factors like whether the building was occupied, if a weapon was used, or if assault occurred. A burglary charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County must handle these specifics.
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. We understand how prosecutors in Upper Marlboro build these cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court information is available at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County website.
Local Court Process for Burglary Charges
In Prince George’s County, burglary cases typically begin in District Court for an initial appearance and bail review. Felony charges are then forwarded to the Prince George’s County Circuit Court for indictment and potential jury trial. The State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County prosecutes these cases aggressively. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Prince George’s County must be prepared for both court levels.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will appear before a District Court commissioner in Upper Marlboro within 24 hours of arrest to set bail conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: If charged by a statement of charges, a hearing is held to determine if probable cause exists to send the felony to Circuit Court.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The State’s Attorney presents evidence to a grand jury. If indicted, your case is transferred to Circuit Court.
- Arraignment & Plea: You are formally read the charges in Circuit Court and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and engages in plea negotiations with prosecutors.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Prince George’s County
In Prince George’s County, a burglary conviction carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $5,000, with enhanced penalties for aggravating factors.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary in the First Degree (Occupied Dwelling) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Burglary in the Second Degree (Unoccupied) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $5,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record |
| Burglary with a Deadly Weapon | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None directly | Mandatory minimum sentences may apply |
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. Our team has a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, providing a unique advantage in cases involving financial or evidentiary details.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm actively practices in Prince George’s County. While specific local case counts are proprietary, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented results with over 93% favorable outcomes. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements in serious felony cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Prince George’s County
Our Rockville, MD location serves clients at Prince George’s County courts. We are accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, and Route 4. If you need a burglary defense lawyer near Upper Marlboro, Bowie, or College Park, we can help.
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.
We serve communities including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Burglary Defense FAQs for Prince George’s County
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Maryland?
Yes, there is a key difference. “Breaking and entering” generally refers to the unlawful entry itself. “Burglary” requires breaking and entering plus the intent to commit a crime inside the dwelling (like theft or assault). A breaking and entering defense lawyer Prince George’s County can argue against the evidence of this specific intent.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Prince George’s County?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County may negotiate a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing or theft under $1,500, which carries significantly lower penalties. Success depends on the strength of the prosecution’s case and any weaknesses in proving intent or breaking.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for burglary in Prince George’s County?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. It avoids a formal conviction on your record. PBJ is available for many felonies at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Prince George’s County?
Yes. Maryland burglary charges are felonies with penalties up to 20 years in prison. An attorney at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County and Circuit Court can challenge the evidence, negotiate for reductions or PBJ, and protect your rights at every stage, from bail hearing to trial.
What happens after a burglary arrest in Prince George’s County?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner in Upper Marlboro who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) preliminary hearing, (4) grand jury indictment for felonies, (5) arraignment in Circuit Court, and (6) trial or plea negotiations. Misdemeanor-related charges may be tried in District Court.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Howard County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Prince George’s County DUI Lawyer or Prince George’s County Family Lawyer services.
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.