Maryland Burglary Lawyer

Providing Effective & Affordable Defense Against Burglary Charges in Prince George's County

When facing burglary charges in Maryland, you need a skilled and experienced legal team to protect your rights and build a solid defense strategy. At Brennan McKenna & Lawlor, Chtd., we have a long-standing reputation for successfully defending individuals charged with burglary offenses in Maryland. Our team of attorneys understands the complexities of burglary cases and is committed to helping clients achieve the best possible outcome.

Call Brennan McKenna & Lawlor, Chtd., today at (240) 219-8980 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our burglary attorney in Maryland!

What is Burglary?

Burglary is a severe criminal offense in Maryland involving unlawful entry into a dwelling, structure, or property intending to commit a crime. This crime is not limited to residential break-ins; it also encompasses unauthorized entries into businesses, cars, and other places with criminal intent. To be convicted of burglary in Maryland, the prosecution must prove three essential elements:

• Entry: The defendant must have entered a dwelling, structure, or property without permission.
• Breaking: This element includes any unauthorized entry, such as picking a lock or breaking a window.
• Intent: The prosecution must demonstrate that the defendant entered with the intent to commit a crime, such as theft, assault, or another illegal act.

The intent to commit a crime is the key component of burglary charges in Maryland. The charges could be reduced or dismissed altogether if there was no intent to commit a crime upon entry.

What are the Penalties for Burglary in Maryland?

The penalties for burglary are categorized into three degrees, each carrying different consequences:

• First-Degree Burglary: This is the most severe burglary charge in Maryland. It involves entering a dwelling intending to commit theft, violence, or any crime with a maximum penalty of 20 years or more. A conviction can lead to 25 years in prison.
• Second-Degree Burglary: Second-degree burglary involves entering any structure or property intending to commit theft or any other crime. A conviction for second-degree burglary can result in up to 15 years in prison.
• Third-Degree Burglary: This charge applies when a person enters a property without permission but without the intent to commit a theft or another felony. It is a misdemeanor offense with a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison.

Apart from imprisonment, a burglary conviction in Maryland can also lead to fines, probation, restitution, and a permanent criminal record, affecting your personal and professional life. That's why having an experienced Maryland burglary lawyer is crucial to building a strong defense strategy tailored to your case.

Defenses Against Burglary Charges

When facing burglary charges in Maryland, exploring various defense strategies to protect your rights and freedom is essential. Our skilled attorneys at Brennan McKenna & Lawlor, Chtd. have successfully used the following defenses in burglary cases:

• Lack of Intent: If the prosecution cannot prove your intent to commit a crime at entry, it can weaken your case. We can argue that you entered the property for a legitimate purpose.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, witnesses may incorrectly identify the defendant as the perpetrator. We can investigate and present evidence to establish that you were not the person who committed the crime.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during the investigation, any evidence obtained through an illegal search and seizure may be suppressed.
• Alibi: We can present evidence that you were not at the burglary scene when it occurred, establishing an alibi.
• Consent: If you had permission to enter the property, we can argue that there was no unlawful entry.
• Duress: If you were forced to commit the burglary under threat of harm or injury, we can use the defense of duress.

Contact Our Maryland Burglary Attorney Today

Burglary charges in Maryland are serious and can have life-altering consequences. To protect your rights and future, it's critical to have a dedicated legal team on your side. If you or a loved one is facing burglary charges in Maryland, don't hesitate to contact our experienced burglary lawyers. We will work tirelessly to build a strong defense tailored to your unique circumstances and strive to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Your freedom and future are our top priorities, and we are here to fight for you.

Contact Brennan McKenna & Lawlor, Chtd., today to schedule a FREE consultation with our burglary lawyer in Maryland!