Trespassing Defense Lawyer Howard County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Howard County, Maryland, is a criminal offense under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-402, carrying potential jail time and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing unlawful entry charges.
Maryland Trespassing Law and Penalties
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 severity of the charge depends on factors like the type of property and whether the entry was for an unlawful purpose. A simple trespass is typically a misdemeanor, but trespassing on certain secured properties or with intent to commit a crime can elevate the charge.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s trespassing laws, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. For court-specific information, including forms and procedures, visit the District Court of MD for Howard County website.
Local Court Process for a Trespass Charge in Howard County
If you are charged with trespassing in Howard County, your case will begin at the District Court located at 3451 Courthouse Drive in Ellicott City. The State’s Attorney for Howard County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that Maryland offers dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for eligible trespassing cases, which can avoid a formal conviction on your record. An experienced unlawful entry defense lawyer Howard County can handle this process.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest or receiving a summons, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who can set bail or release conditions.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney can file motions to challenge evidence and negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge at the District Court.
- Sentencing or Expungement: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence. If the case is dismissed or you receive a PBJ, you may later be eligible for expungement.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Howard County
In Howard County, trespassing penalties vary from fines for a simple violation to incarceration for more serious unlawful entry charges.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing (General) | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Trespassing on Posted Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Enhanced penalties, possible protective order implications |
| Trespassing with Intent to Commit Crime | Misdemeanor/Felony* | Varies with underlying crime | Varies | Charges for both trespass and the intended crime |
*Depending on the nature of the intended crime.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Trespassing Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that a trespass charge can stem from a misunderstanding or an error in judgment, and we work to protect your rights and future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm actively practices in Howard County. While specific local case counts are proprietary, our firm-wide results demonstrate our commitment to vigorous defense. In similar misdemeanor cases, we have successfully secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), placements on the inactive docket (Stet), and Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) outcomes that avoid a permanent conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including managing attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice—collaborates to bring extensive experience to every trespass charge defense.
Local Howard County Defense
Our Maryland location serves clients in Howard County. We represent individuals at the District Court in Ellicott City. If you need a trespassing defense lawyer near Howard County, contact us for a consultation.
Communities Served: Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, Laurel (partial).
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Trespassing Charges in Howard County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Howard County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors, including many trespassing charges, at District Court of MD for Howard County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get a trespassing charge expunged in Howard County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), Stet placements, PBJ (after 3 years), and qualifying non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. A trespass charge that resulted in a conviction may be eligible for expungement if it meets specific criteria. An attorney can review your case to determine eligibility.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing misdemeanor in Howard County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor trespass charge can carry up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine. An attorney at the District Court of MD for Howard County can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, protect your rights during the process, and advise on long-term consequences like record expungement.
What should I do if I am charged with trespassing?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a trespassing defense lawyer Howard County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, such as communications with the property owner or reasons you believed you had permission to be present. Then, consult with an attorney to plan your defense strategy.
What are common defenses to a trespass charge?
Common defenses include having the property owner’s consent, being on the property for a legitimate purpose (like an emergency), lack of proper “no trespassing” signage, or mistaken identity. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Howard County can evaluate the specifics of your situation to identify the strongest defense.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Howard County and family law matters. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Maryland criminal defense hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Anne Arundel County.
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.