If you’ve been charged with wanton trespassing in Maryland, you may be feeling confused and concerned about the potential consequences. At Shepard Law, we understand the complexities of trespassing laws and the impact these charges can have on your life. Our experienced criminal defense attorney is here to protect your rights and guide you through this challenging legal situation.

Wanton trespassing is a serious criminal offense in Maryland that goes beyond simple trespassing. It involves entering or remaining on private property with an extreme recklessness and utter disregard for the rights of others. This charge can arise from various situations, such as repeatedly entering a property after being warned not to, or refusing to leave when asked by the property owner or their agent.

Under Maryland law, specifically Criminal Law I § 6-403, there are two main types of trespassing offenses related to private property. The first involves wantonly entering or crossing over private property after being notified not to do so. The second involves remaining on private property after being notified to leave. Both of these offenses can result in criminal charges with potentially severe consequences.

To secure a conviction for wanton trespassing by entry, the State must prove several key elements beyond a reasonable doubt. These include that you were notified not to enter the private property, that this notice came from the property owner or their agent, and that you wantonly entered or crossed over the property without permission. Additionally, the prosecution must show that you did not enter under a good faith claim of right or ownership.

For charges related to remaining on private property, the State needs to prove that you were notified not to remain on the property by the owner or their agent, and that you stayed on the property without permission after receiving this notice.

It’s crucial to understand that the term “wanton” in this context means characterized by extreme recklessness and utter disregard for the rights of others. This is a higher standard than simple trespassing and can carry more severe penalties if convicted.

At Shepard Law, we know that there are often two sides to every story. Perhaps you believed you had a right to be on the property, or there was a misunderstanding about ownership or permission. Maybe the notice to leave was unclear or not properly communicated. Our skilled attorney will thoroughly investigate your case, examining all evidence and circumstances surrounding the alleged trespass.

We’ll work diligently to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. This may involve challenging the prosecution’s evidence, questioning the clarity of the notice given, or demonstrating that you had a good faith belief in your right to be on the property. In some cases, we may be able to negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or even case dismissal.

A conviction for wanton trespassing can have serious consequences beyond legal penalties. It can affect your reputation, employment opportunities, and even your housing options. That’s why it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation on your side from the start.