Harassment Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland
Experienced Defense Against Harassment Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with harassment in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face a misdemeanor offense under Maryland Criminal Law § 3-803 that can carry jail time, fines, and lasting collateral consequences. Harassment charges often arise from allegations of following someone in a public place, conducting visual surveillance of a residence, or engaging in a repeated course of conduct that alarms or seriously annoys another person after a warning to stop. These cases are taken seriously by prosecutors in Baltimore County District and Circuit Courts and can affect employment, housing, professional licenses, and personal relationships.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing harassment charges throughout Baltimore County. With more than a decade of dedicated service defending clients in Towson, Essex, Catonsville, and surrounding communities, our firm focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and protecting your future with thoughtful, personalized advocacy.
What Is Harassment Under Maryland Criminal Law § 3-803?
Maryland law defines harassment as follows: A person may not (1) follow another in or about a public place, (2) conduct visual surveillance of an area of another’s residence where the other has a reasonable expectation of privacy, or (3) maliciously engage in a course of conduct that alarms or seriously annoys the other
if all three of the following elements are present:
- with the intent to harass, alarm, or annoy the other;
- after receiving a reasonable warning or request to stop by or on behalf of the other; and
- without a legal purpose.
“Residence” includes the yard, grounds, outbuildings, and common areas surrounding a home. The statute explicitly protects constitutionally protected activities, such as peaceable political expression or providing information to others, and may not be applied in a way that infringes on rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution or the Maryland Declaration of Rights.
Penalties for Harassment in Baltimore County
Harassment is a misdemeanor with penalties that increase for repeat offenses:
- First offense: imprisonment not exceeding 90 days, a fine not exceeding $500, or both.
- Second or subsequent offense: imprisonment not exceeding 180 days, a fine not exceeding $1,000, or both.
Even a first-time conviction can result in a criminal record with significant collateral consequences, including impacts on employment, housing applications, and professional licensing.
Strong Defenses to Harassment Charges
At Shepard Law, we carefully review every aspect of the State’s case to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Lack of intent to harass, alarm, or annoy
- No reasonable warning or request to stop was given
- The conduct had a legitimate legal or constitutional purpose
- The alleged behavior does not meet the statutory definition of a “course of conduct”
- Constitutional protections apply (First Amendment rights, privacy rights, etc.)
- Insufficient evidence or credibility issues with the complaining witness
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each case with care and attention, working closely with clients to develop the most appropriate path forward—whether through negotiation for dismissal, reduction of charges, or trial.
Why Choose Shepard Law for Harassment Defense in Baltimore County
Stephen P. Shepard is a respected Baltimore County criminal defense attorney recognized by Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star,” Avvo with a 10.0 “Superb” rating, Martindale-Hubbell as a “Client Champion Platinum,” and The National Trial Lawyers as a “Top 40 Under 40.” He is an active member of the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association and regularly appears in Baltimore County courts.
Our Towson office, located at 303 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Towson, MD 21204, serves clients across Baltimore County. At Shepard Law, you receive client-centered and compassionate representation focused on your individual needs and long-term well-being.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve.