Burglary Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland
Experienced Defense Against All Degrees of Burglary Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with burglary in any degree in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face serious felony charges under Maryland Criminal Law §§ 6-202 through 6-205. These offenses include first-degree burglary (break and enter a dwelling with intent to commit theft or a crime of violence), second-degree burglary (break and enter a storehouse), third-degree burglary (break and enter a dwelling with intent to commit any crime), and fourth-degree burglary (break and enter a dwelling or building, or being in or on a building with intent to commit theft). Prosecutors in Baltimore County treat these cases aggressively, and a conviction can result in decades of imprisonment, substantial 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 burglary charges of any degree 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 burglary 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 §§ 6-202–6-205.
What Is Burglary in Maryland?
Maryland law defines burglary through a series of statutes that distinguish between degrees based on the type of structure, the intent involved, and the circumstances of the entry. Key definitions from § 6-201 include:
- Break: The creation or enlargement of an opening (actual or constructive, including by fraud, trick, or force).
- Enter: Any part of the defendant’s body inside the structure.
- Dwelling: A structure where someone regularly sleeps.
- Storehouse: A building, watercraft, barn, stable, pier, wharf, trailer, aircraft, vessel, or railroad car.
The four degrees are:
- First-Degree Burglary (§ 6-202): Breaking and entering the dwelling of another with intent to commit theft or a crime of violence (home invasion).
- Second-Degree Burglary (§ 6-203): Breaking and entering the storehouse of another with intent to commit theft, a crime of violence, second-degree arson, or to steal a firearm.
- Third-Degree Burglary (§ 6-204): Breaking and entering the dwelling of another with intent to commit any crime.
- Fourth-Degree Burglary (§ 6-205): Breaking and entering a dwelling or building, or being in or on a dwelling, building, yard, or garden area with intent to commit theft.
Penalties for Burglary Charges in Baltimore County
Penalties escalate with the degree and circumstances of the offense:
- First-Degree Burglary (theft intent): Up to 20 years imprisonment.
- First-Degree Burglary (home invasion / crime of violence intent): Up to 25 years imprisonment.
- Second-Degree Burglary (general): Up to 15 years imprisonment.
- Second-Degree Burglary (intent to steal a firearm): Up to 20 years imprisonment or a fine not exceeding $10,000, or both.
- Third- and Fourth-Degree Burglary: Felony penalties that vary by specific subsection and facts of the case, often carrying significant prison time and fines.
Convictions also trigger mandatory restitution, long-term collateral consequences, and potential enhancements for use of burglar’s tools or prior convictions.
Strong Defenses to Burglary 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 breaking or entry
- Absence of criminal intent
- Honest and reasonable belief of right or invitation to enter the premises
- Consent or authorization by the owner
- Unlawful search and seizure of evidence
- Mistaken identity or insufficient proof of identity
- Challenges to circumstantial evidence (e.g., recent possession of stolen goods)
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 Burglary 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.