Burglary Lawyer in Towson, Maryland
Defending Against Burglary Charges in Baltimore County, Maryland
At Shepard Law in Towson, Maryland, we understand the gravity of burglary charges and their potential impact on your future. Our award-winning, family-operated firm, led by attorney Stephen P. Shepard, provides sophisticated defense representation throughout Baltimore County and surrounding areas. We offer confidential, free consultations to individuals charged with burglary offenses, ensuring that every client receives personalized attention and strategic defense planning.
Understanding Maryland Burglary Classifications
First-Degree Burglary and Home Invasion
First-Degree Burglary and Home Invasion involve breaking and entering a dwelling, carrying the most severe penalties under Maryland law. First-degree burglary specifically addresses breaking and entering with intent to commit theft, punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment. Home invasion, classified as breaking and entering with intent to commit a violent crime, carries an enhanced penalty of up to 25 years imprisonment.
Second-Degree Burglary
Second-Degree Burglary focuses on breaking and entering a storehouse or similar structure. This offense occurs when someone breaks and enters with intent to commit theft, a crime of violence, or second-degree arson. The maximum penalty reaches 15 years imprisonment for general cases, though incidents involving firearm theft may result in sentences up to 20 years and potential fines up to $10,000.
Third-Degree Burglary
Third-Degree Burglary applies when someone breaks and enters a dwelling with intent to commit any crime. This differs from first-degree burglary in that the intent element extends beyond theft to encompass any criminal purpose. Third-degree burglary carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment.
Fourth-Degree Burglary and Rogue and Vagabond
Fourth-Degree Burglary serves as a catch-all category, encompassing several related offenses. This includes breaking and entering a dwelling or storehouse without specific criminal intent, possession of burglary tools, and being present in a building with intent to commit theft. While considered a misdemeanor, fourth-degree burglary still carries significant penalties up to 3 years imprisonment.
Comprehensive Defense Strategy
The prosecution bears a substantial burden in proving burglary charges. They must establish multiple elements beyond reasonable doubt, including the act of breaking, the subsequent entry, and specific criminal intent at the time of entry. For instance, in a recent Baltimore County case, our firm successfully challenged the prosecution’s evidence regarding intent, demonstrating that our client’s presence in the building resulted from a misunderstanding rather than criminal purpose.
Experienced Representation at Shepard Law
Stephen P. Shepard brings extensive courtroom experience defending burglary cases throughout Baltimore County, Maryland. We understand how prosecutors approach these cases and anticipate their strategies. This experience proves invaluable in constructing effective defenses and achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. Our firm maintains strong working relationships with local courts and prosecutors while never compromising our dedication to aggressive client advocacy.
We encourage anyone facing burglary charges to contact our office immediately for a free, confidential consultation. During this meeting, we will review the specifics of your case, explain relevant legal principles, and outline potential defense strategies. Contact Shepard Law today to schedule your free consultation. Let our family-operated firm put its award-winning criminal defense experience to work protecting your rights and future. We serve clients throughout Baltimore County, Maryland and surrounding areas, providing compassionate, aggressive defense representation during this challenging time.
Contact a Burglary Attorney in Towson, Maryland
Contact an experienced first-degree burglary attorney today if you or a loved one have been charged with the crime of first-degree burglary. With an office located in the heart of Towson, Maryland, we serve folks throughout Baltimore County, Maryland and surrounding nearby areas. We offer free phone or office consultations, and we offer jail consultations for a fee. Please use the form below to contact us and someone from our office will reach back out to you.
