Trespassing Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Prince George’s County is a criminal offense under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time and fines. If you are facing a trespass charge, securing a skilled trespassing defense lawyer Prince Georges County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for unlawful entry and other property crimes.
Maryland Trespassing Law and Penalties
Trespassing in Maryland is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, § 6-402. The law prohibits entering or crossing over the property of another after receiving notice not to do so, either verbally, through posted signs, or via fencing. The severity of the charge often depends on the circumstances, such as whether the property is a dwelling, a government facility, or a school.
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 these statutes are applied in local courts. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Prince George’s County from our team can explain how the specific facts of your case relate to the law.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s trespassing statute, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, § 6-402 (official Maryland General Assembly site). Court procedures and local rules for Prince George’s County can be found at the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County website.
Local Court Process for a Trespass Charge in Prince George’s County
All misdemeanor trespassing cases in Prince George’s County are handled at the District Court located at 14735 Main Street in Upper Marlboro. The State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) disposition is often a critical goal in trespassing cases, as it can avoid a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be notified of your court date. At arraignment, you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your attorney will review the state’s evidence and negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- Motion Hearings: Your lawyer may file motions to challenge the legality of the notice given or the evidence against you.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge. If an agreement is reached, the judge will approve the disposition.
- Sentencing or Probation: If found guilty or if pleading guilty under an agreement, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include fines, probation, or jail time.
- Post-Disposition: For eligible outcomes like PBJ or a dismissal, your attorney can later file for expungement to clear your record.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Maryland
In Prince George’s County, a trespassing conviction can result in penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, depending on the specific charge and your prior record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing on Posted Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal record |
| Trespassing on School Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible enhanced penalties |
| Trespassing in a Dwelling | Misdemeanor | Up to 3 years | Up to $5,000 | More severe charge |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our trespass charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County, Kristen Fisher, is a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. She uses her insider knowledge of how local prosecutors build cases to develop effective defense strategies. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate of over 93%.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm actively practices in Prince George’s County. While specific trespassing case results are confidential, our overall track record in Maryland criminal defense is strong. We have successfully secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), placements on the inactive docket (Stet), and favorable Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) dispositions for clients. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense Near You
Our Maryland office represents clients at the Prince George’s County District Court in Upper Marlboro. We serve communities throughout the county, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: 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.
Frequently Asked Questions (Trespassing Defense)
What is the difference between trespassing and unlawful entry in Maryland?
It depends. “Trespassing” generally refers to entering property after being told not to. “Unlawful entry” often implies entering a dwelling or secured area without permission, which can be a more serious charge. A trespass charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County can analyze the specifics of your case to determine the exact allegations.
Can a trespassing charge be dropped in Prince George’s County?
Yes. Charges can be dropped (Nolle Prosequi) by the prosecutor or dismissed by a judge if the evidence is weak, your rights were violated, or through successful pre-trial negotiations. An experienced trespassing defense lawyer Prince Georges County can work toward this outcome.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for trespassing?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you successfully complete probation, you avoid a formal conviction on your record. PBJ is available for most misdemeanors, including trespassing, at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor trespassing charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor can carry up to 90 days in jail and create a permanent criminal record. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Prince George’s County can protect your rights, negotiate for PBJ or dismissal, and represent you at trial if necessary.
Can I get a trespassing record expunged in Maryland?
Yes. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after a 3-year waiting period). A lawyer can file the expungement petition with the court where your case was heard to clear your record.
Related Legal Services in Prince George’s County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides defense for general criminal matters, DUI/DWI, and family law issues in Prince George’s County. For a broader view of our Maryland practice, visit our Maryland criminal defense hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Howard 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.