Trespassing Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland
Experienced Defense Against Trespassing Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with trespassing in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face a serious misdemeanor offense under Maryland Criminal Law §§ 6-402 and 6-403. These statutes prohibit entering or remaining on posted property or the private property of another without permission, often after receiving a warning or when the property is clearly marked “no trespassing.” Prosecutors in Baltimore County District and Circuit Courts pursue these cases vigorously, and a conviction can result in jail time, fines, a permanent criminal record, and collateral consequences that affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing trespassing 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.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
A trespassing charge in Baltimore County requires prompt, compassionate legal guidance. The earlier you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and explore all available options.
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 under Maryland Criminal Law §§ 6-402 and 6-403.
What Is Trespassing Under Maryland Law?
Maryland law criminalizes two primary forms of trespass:
- § 6-402 (Trespass on Posted Property): Entering or remaining on real property that is posted with “no trespassing” signs or otherwise clearly marked to prohibit entry without the owner’s or occupant’s permission.
- § 6-403 (Wanton Trespass on Private Property): Entering or remaining on the private property of another after receiving actual notice (oral or written) not to do so.
The State must prove the defendant entered or remained on the property without authorization and, in most cases, that proper notice or posting was provided.
Penalties for Trespassing Charges in Baltimore County
Trespassing is a misdemeanor with escalating penalties:
- First offense: Imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $500, or both.
- Second offense (within 2 years): Imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or a fine not exceeding $1,000, or both.
- Subsequent offenses: Imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $2,500, or both.
Convictions may also result in restitution to the property owner, probation, and long-term collateral consequences.
Strong Defenses to Trespassing Charges
At Shepard Law, we meticulously review every aspect of the State’s evidence to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Lack of proper notice or posting
- Honest and reasonable belief of permission or invitation to be on the property
- Consent or authorization by the owner or occupant
- Unlawful stop, search, or seizure of evidence
- Mistaken identity or insufficient proof of presence on the property
- Necessity or emergency circumstances
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each case with care and attention, working closely with clients to pursue dismissal, reduction of charges, or another favorable outcome.
Why Choose Shepard Law for Trespassing 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.