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.
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, typically theft. The severity of the charge depends on factors like whether the building was occupied, if a weapon was used, or if assault occurred. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Prince George’s County must handle these distinctions carefully.
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 brings a deep understanding of how prosecutors build these cases from the initial police report forward.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s burglary statutes, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures and local rules for Prince George’s County can be found on the District Court of Maryland website for Prince George’s County.
Local Court Process for Burglary Charges in Prince George’s County
Burglary cases in Prince George’s County begin with an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner at the Upper Marlboro courthouse (14735 Main Street), who sets bail. Felony burglary 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 aggressively prosecutes these cases. A burglary charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County must immediately work to challenge the element of “intent” and the legality of the police investigation.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will appear before a District Court commissioner within 24 hours of arrest for a bail determination.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felony charges, a hearing is held in District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If indicted, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Prince George’s County Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors.
- Plea or Trial: The case may be resolved through a plea agreement or proceed to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows, where arguments for mitigation are crucial.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Maryland
In Prince George’s County, a burglary conviction carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary in the First Degree (Occupied dwelling, weapon, assault) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, probation, restitution, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Burglary in the Second Degree (Other structures) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $5,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, probation, restitution |
| Burglary with a Destructive Device | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $25,000 | 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 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your case and the local Prince George’s County court procedures.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm actively practices in Prince George’s County. While specific local case counts are proprietary, firm-wide we have documented 4,739+ case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and acquittals. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every defense is thorough.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Prince George’s County
Our Maryland location serves clients at Prince George’s County courts in Upper Marlboro, accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, and Route 4. We are a burglary defense lawyer near Prince George’s County, serving 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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Defense in Prince George’s County
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Maryland?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary requires breaking and entering with the intent to commit a crime inside (like theft). “Breaking and entering” alone, without proof of that intent, is a separate, often lesser, offense. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Prince George’s County focuses on challenging the evidence of intent.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Prince George’s County?
It depends. Prosecutors may agree to reduce a first-degree burglary charge to second-degree burglary or even a trespassing charge if the evidence of intent or occupation is weak. Factors like your criminal history, the circumstances of the entry, and the value of any property taken influence negotiations. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County can advocate for a reduction.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for burglary in Maryland?
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 theoretically available for many felonies at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County, but judges are often reluctant to grant it for serious felonies like burglary without a strong defense presentation.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Prince George’s County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with penalties up to 20 years in prison. The legal definitions are complex, and the prosecution’s case hinges on proving specific elements like “breaking” and “intent.” An attorney at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County can negotiate for reductions, challenge evidence, and protect your rights at every stage.
What happens after a burglary arrest in Prince George’s County?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) preliminary hearing for felonies, (4) indictment and arraignment in Circuit Court, (5) trial. Misdemeanor burglary (4th degree) is tried at District Court. Felonies go to Prince George’s County Circuit Court.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Howard County. If you are facing other charges, explore our Prince George’s County DUI Lawyer or Prince George’s County Family Lawyer pages.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your burglary defense in Prince George’s County.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.