Burglary Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — Protecting Your Rights
Burglary in Anne Arundel County is a serious felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 6-202, carrying up to 20 years in prison. A burglary defense lawyer Anne Arundel County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides critical defense. Our firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
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. The severity of the charge often depends on whether the structure was occupied and the time of day. First-degree burglary, involving a dwelling that is occupied, is the most serious.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how prosecutors build these cases. This insight is vital for constructing an effective defense strategy against burglary charges.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s burglary statutes, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures and local rules for Anne Arundel County can be found on the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County website.
Local Defense Strategy in Anne Arundel County
Defending a burglary charge in Anne Arundel County requires immediate action. The State’s Attorney’s office prosecutes these cases aggressively. A key local procedural fact is that all initial appearances and misdemeanor trials for related charges like theft or destruction of property are held at the District Court at 251 Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis. Felony burglary cases proceed to the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Contact a lawyer before speaking to investigators. Anything you say can be used to establish intent.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your attorney will review police reports, witness statements, and any physical evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally or to challenge the legality of the arrest.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate for a reduction (e.g., to trespassing) or dismissal, or prepare a vigorous trial defense.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If a conviction occurs, your attorney will advocate for alternative sentencing, such as probation or rehabilitation programs.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Anne Arundel County
In Anne Arundel County, a burglary conviction carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Burglary in the Second Degree | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of certain civil rights |
| Burglary with a Dangerous Weapon | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $25,000 | Mandatory minimum sentences often 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 founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands the tactics used by the state. For burglary and breaking and entering charges, having a lawyer who can anticipate the prosecution’s strategy is a significant advantage. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential, our firm’s approach to burglary defense involves meticulously analyzing police procedures, witness credibility, and the evidence of intent. We actively practice in Anne Arundel County courts. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including managing attorney Mr. Sris, collaborates to bring multiple perspectives to each case. Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor and firm founder adds a strategic layer to our defense planning.
Local Defense Near You
Our Maryland office represents clients at Anne Arundel County courts. We serve clients in Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville. As your local burglary defense lawyer Anne Arundel County, we are accessible via I-97, Route 50, and other major highways.
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.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Defense in Anne Arundel 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, often charged under trespass laws, may not require proof of that specific criminal intent. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can explain how this distinction applies to your case.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. While burglary is a felony, skilled negotiation by a burglary charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can sometimes result in a reduction to a lesser charge like trespassing or malicious destruction of property, which are misdemeanors. The strength of the evidence against you and your prior record are major factors.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary?
First, exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with a burglary defense lawyer Anne Arundel County. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation to protect your rights from the very start.
What are the possible defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime, mistaken identity, lack of evidence of a “breaking,” consent to enter the property, or an illegal search and seizure that violates your Fourth Amendment rights. An attorney will investigate to determine the best defense strategy for your situation.
How long does a burglary case take in Anne Arundel County?
Timelines vary. A felony burglary case in Circuit Court can take 3 to 12 months or longer from arrest to resolution, depending on case complexity, evidence, and court scheduling. Your attorney can provide a more specific estimate after reviewing the details of your case.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing burglary charges, you may also want to learn about Maryland criminal defense strategies. For charges in neighboring areas, consider a criminal defense lawyer in Montgomery County. For other serious charges in Anne Arundel County, explore our page on DUI/DWI defense.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your burglary charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. directly at (888) 437-7747.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.
