Prince George’s County Burglary Defense Lawyer — What Are Your 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 (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro).
Maryland Burglary Law and Penalties
In Maryland, burglary is defined as breaking and entering the dwelling of another with the intent to commit theft or a crime of violence. The statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202, classifies burglary in the first degree as a felony. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Prince George’s County must handle these charges carefully, as intent is a key element the State must prove.
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 over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our background provides a strategic advantage in constructing defenses against serious property crime allegations.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202 (official Maryland General Assembly site). Court procedures and filings for Prince George’s County are handled through the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County website.
Local Court Process for Burglary Charges
In Prince George’s County, all burglary cases begin at the District Court for initial appearances and bail hearings. Felony charges are then forwarded to the Prince George’s County Circuit Court for indictment and potential jury trial. Prosecutors from the State’s Attorney’s Office for Prince George’s County handle these cases. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County knows that early intervention at the District Court level is crucial for influencing bail conditions and case trajectory.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felony): The State must present probable cause that a burglary occurred. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and challenge evidence.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The case proceeds to Prince George’s County Circuit Court if the grand jury issues an indictment.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your lawyer files motions to suppress evidence and engages in plea negotiations with the State’s Attorney.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows Maryland’s guidelines, which consider the degree of the burglary and your criminal history.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Prince George’s County
In Prince George’s County, first-degree burglary is a felony punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment, while related offenses like breaking and entering carry significant misdemeanor penalties.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Burglary Second/Third Degree | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $5,000 | Felony record, probation |
| Breaking & Entering | Misdemeanor | Up to 3 years | Up to $2,500 | Misdemeanor record, possible probation |
| Theft (under $1,500) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | Restitution, criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Prince George’s County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who brings firsthand insight into how the State builds its cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex criminal matters. We have a documented track record of favorable outcomes across Maryland.
Case Results
While specific case results are unique to each client, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. In Maryland, our attorneys have successfully negotiated for charges to be reduced or dismissed in property crime cases. For example, we have secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in cases involving allegations of promoting or distributing child pornography in Baltimore County, demonstrating our ability to handle serious felony allegations.
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. We represent individuals from Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
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 the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Maryland?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary requires breaking and entering plus the intent to commit theft or a crime of violence inside. Breaking and entering alone, without proof of that specific intent, is a lesser misdemeanor offense. A burglary defense lawyer Prince Georges 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 felony burglary charge to a misdemeanor like trespassing or malicious destruction of property if the evidence of intent is weak or if there are mitigating circumstances. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County can negotiate based on the facts of your case.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a burglary charge?
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 available for many misdemeanors and some felonies at the court’s discretion, but it is less common for serious felonies like first-degree burglary.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Prince George’s County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with severe penalties. A public defender may be appointed if you qualify, but a private burglary defense lawyer Prince Georges County can provide more individualized attention and resources to investigate your case and build a strong defense from the start.
What happens after a burglary arrest in Prince George’s County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case will then proceed through arraignment, pre-trial motions, and either a plea or trial in Circuit Court for felony charges.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Prince George’s County DUI Lawyer services.
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.