Trespassing Defense Lawyer Howard County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Howard County is a criminal offense under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients at the District Court of MD for Howard County in Ellicott City.
Maryland Trespassing Law and Penalties
Trespassing in Maryland is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, § 6-401 et seq. The law prohibits entering or crossing over the property of another person after receiving notice not to do so. Notice can be verbal, by posted sign, or by a fence or other enclosure. The severity of the charge often depends on the type of property and the defendant’s intent.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Maryland’s trespassing statutes, visit the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly). For Howard County court procedures, see the District Court of MD for Howard County website.
Howard County Court Process for Trespassing Charges
Most trespassing cases in Howard County begin with a citation or arrest and are heard at the District Court at 3451 Courthouse Drive in Ellicott City. The Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that many trespassing charges are eligible for dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which avoids a formal conviction if probation terms are completed.
- Receive a citation, summons, or be arrested.
- Attend your initial appearance/arraignment at the District Court in Ellicott City.
- Review discovery with your attorney and discuss defense strategies (e.g., lack of notice, permission, mistaken identity).
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or favorable disposition like PBJ.
- Prepare for a bench trial if a satisfactory plea cannot be reached.
- Address sentencing or probation requirements if convicted.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Howard County
In Howard County, trespassing penalties vary by the specific charge but can include jail time, substantial fines, and a criminal record that affects employment and housing.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing on Posted Property | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal record |
| Trespassing on School Grounds | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible protective order |
| Defiant Trespasser | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Enhanced penalties for repeat offenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Howard County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years, with more than 4,739 documented case results and a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We provide full representation for trespassing and related charges in Howard County. Our trespass charge defense lawyer Howard County approach is built on a deep understanding of local court procedures.
Case Results
Our team has achieved successful outcomes in trespassing and related criminal cases. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, leveraging his multi-state practice experience.
Local Howard County Criminal Defense
Our Maryland office represents clients in Howard County. We serve communities including Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel. As your trespassing defense lawyer Howard County, we are familiar with the local courts and procedures.
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 Howard 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, including trespassing, at the District Court of MD for Howard County. After successful 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, and PBJ (after 3 years). If you were convicted of trespassing, expungement may be possible under the Justice Reinvestment Act if it was a non-violent offense. Cases are expunged through the Howard County court where the case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing misdemeanor in Howard County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor trespassing charge can carry up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. An attorney at the District Court of MD for Howard County can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, protecting your record and future.
What is the difference between trespassing and unlawful entry in Maryland?
In Maryland, trespassing generally involves entering property after being told not to. “Unlawful entry” is often used interchangeably but can be a specific charge related to entering a dwelling. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Howard County can analyze the specifics of your notice and the property type to build your defense.
What happens after a trespassing arrest in Howard County?
After an arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case will then proceed to arraignment and trial at the District Court in Ellicott City for misdemeanor trespassing.
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 Howard County DUI lawyer services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your trespassing charge.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.
