Trespassing Defense Lawyer St Marys County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in St. Mary’s County is a criminal offense under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-402, carrying penalties that can include jail time and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for unlawful entry and trespass charges.
Maryland Trespassing Law
In Maryland, trespassing is defined as entering or remaining on someone else’s property without permission. The specific statute is Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-402. The law covers various scenarios, including entering a dwelling, posted land, or a secured premises. The severity of the charge often depends on the type of property and the defendant’s intent.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a background in handling complex criminal matters. We apply this experience to trespass cases, which can sometimes involve misunderstandings or property line disputes.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s trespassing statute, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures and local rules for St. Mary’s County can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County.
Local Court Process for a Trespass Charge in St. Mary’s County
If you are charged with trespassing in St. Mary’s County, your case will begin at the District Court located at 23110 Leonard Hall Drive in Leonardtown. The State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that Maryland offers dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for eligible offenses, which can avoid a formal conviction on your record. For an unlawful entry defense lawyer St. Mary’s County, understanding these local options is critical.
- You will receive a summons or be processed after an arrest, with an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail conditions.
- Your attorney will obtain discovery from the State’s Attorney’s office, reviewing the evidence and police report for weaknesses.
- We will explore all defense options, which may include negotiating for a PBJ, dismissal, or reduced charge, depending on the facts.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we will prepare for and represent you at trial in the St. Mary’s County District Court.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Maryland
In St. Mary’s County, trespassing penalties vary based on the specific violation, ranging from a misdemeanor with jail time to a civil citation with a fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespass on Posted Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal record |
| Trespass in a Dwelling | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | More severe criminal record |
| Trespass on School Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible impact on employment/education |
| Failure to Depart (after warning) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Court costs and fees |
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 firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate of over 93%. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of Maryland law and local court systems.
Case Results
While specific trespassing case results in St. Mary’s County are not listed here, our firm’s overall record demonstrates our commitment to strong defense. Firm-wide, we have achieved over 4,739 documented case results with more than 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and acquittals. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Representation for St. Mary’s County
Our Maryland office represents clients at St. Mary’s County courts. We serve clients in Leonardtown, Lexington Park, California, Great Mills, Hollywood, and Mechanicsville. As your trespassing defense lawyer St Marys County, we are accessible to you.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in St. Mary’s County, Maryland?
Yes. 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 and is available for most misdemeanors, including some trespassing charges, at the District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get a trespassing charge expunged in St. Mary’s County, Maryland?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). If you were convicted of trespassing, expungement may be possible under the Justice Reinvestment Act if it was a non-violent misdemeanor. Cases are expunged through the St. Mary’s County court where the case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing misdemeanor in St. Mary’s County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor trespassing can carry up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. An attorney at the District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County can negotiate for a PBJ to avoid a conviction, seek a dismissal, or challenge the state’s evidence. The long-term consequences of a criminal record make legal counsel important.
What is the difference between trespassing and unlawful entry in Maryland?
In common usage, they are similar. Legally, “unlawful entry” often refers to trespassing in a dwelling or secured area, which is a more serious charge. A precise definition depends on the specific statute cited in your charging documents. An unlawful entry defense lawyer St. Mary’s County can analyze the exact allegations against you.
What should I do if I am charged with trespassing in St. Mary’s County?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Note the details of the incident while fresh. Contact a trespassing defense lawyer St Marys County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, such as photos, messages, or witness information. Attend all court dates or have your attorney appear on your behalf.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Charles County. If you are facing other charges, consider our St. Mary’s County DUI defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal advice regarding your trespassing charge.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.