Trespassing Defense Lawyer in Anne Arundel County, MD — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Anne Arundel County is a criminal offense under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for unlawful entry and other trespass charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland legislature URL
Maryland Trespassing Law
Trespassing in Maryland is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-401 et seq. The law prohibits entering or remaining on property without the owner’s consent. Charges can range from a simple trespass, often a misdemeanor, to more serious offenses like trespass on posted property or with intent to commit a crime. The specific circumstances of the alleged entry determine the classification and potential penalties.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s trespassing statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website (mgaleg.maryland.gov). Court procedures and local rules for Anne Arundel County can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County.
Local Court Process for Trespassing Charges
In Anne Arundel County, most trespassing cases begin with a citation or arrest and are heard at the District Court located at 251 Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel 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.
- Receive a citation, summons, or be arrested for the alleged trespass.
- Attend an initial appearance or arraignment at the District Court in Annapolis.
- Review discovery with your attorney to assess the strength of the state’s evidence.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or favorable disposition like PBJ.
- Prepare for a trial if a satisfactory plea agreement cannot be reached.
- Address any sentencing requirements or pursue expungement if eligible after the case concludes.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Maryland
In Anne Arundel County, trespassing penalties vary based on the specific charge but can include incarceration, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing (General) | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal Conviction | Probation, community service |
| Trespass on Posted Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Criminal Conviction | Possible enhanced penalties for repeat offenses |
| Trespass with Intent to Commit Crime | Varies by underlying intent | Varies significantly | Varies significantly | Serious Criminal Conviction | Charges tied to the intended crime |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Anne Arundel County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. We have a documented record of handling criminal matters in Maryland. Our approach is informed by firsthand knowledge of how cases are built and prosecuted.
Case Results
Our firm has extensive experience defending against criminal charges. While specific results depend on the unique facts of each case, our team works diligently to seek dismissals, reductions, and alternative outcomes like PBJ to minimize the impact on our clients’ lives. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our defense strategies are also informed by the deep experience of Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in complex case analysis.
Contact Our Anne Arundel County Trespassing Defense Lawyer
Our Maryland office serves clients in Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, and Severna Park. We are accessible via major routes like I-97 and Route 50.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
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 Anne Arundel 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 at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can a trespass charge be dismissed in Anne Arundel County?
It depends. Dismissals are possible if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence, your rights were violated during the arrest, or you had a legitimate reason to be on the property. An experienced trespass charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can evaluate the specifics of your case to identify potential grounds for dismissal.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor trespass charge in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor can carry up to 90 days in jail and create a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can negotiate for PBJ or a dismissal at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without legal representation.
What should I do if I am charged with unlawful entry in Anne Arundel County?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Then, contact a lawyer immediately. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can guide you through the process at the District Court, protect your rights during interactions with the State’s Attorney, and begin building your defense strategy.
How can a trespassing conviction affect my future?
A conviction can impact employment opportunities, housing applications, and professional licenses. It remains on your public record. This is why seeking a disposition like PBJ or a dismissal with the help of a trespassing defense lawyer Anne Arundel County is critical for long-term protection.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in Anne Arundel County, you may also find our resources on Maryland criminal defense useful. For related issues in nearby areas, see our pages for Montgomery County criminal defense and Prince George’s County criminal defense. For other legal needs in Anne Arundel County, consider our services for DUI defense or family law matters.
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.