Theft Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — Protecting Your Rights and Record
A theft charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious matter under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104, with penalties ranging from 90 days to 20 years in prison. As a dedicated theft defense lawyer Anne Arundel County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County (251 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis).
Maryland Theft Law and Penalties
In Maryland, theft is defined as the unauthorized control over property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. The specific statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104, classifies the offense based on the value of the property involved and other circumstances. The penalties escalate significantly with the value.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how theft cases are investigated and prosecuted in Anne Arundel County. This insight is critical for building an effective defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s theft statutes, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website (Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104). For court-specific procedures and information, visit the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County official website.
Local Court Process for Theft Charges
In Anne Arundel County, all misdemeanor theft cases and initial appearances for felony theft are handled at the District Court at 251 Rowe Boulevard. The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for many theft offenses. A PBJ disposition avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
If you are charged with theft, here is the typical local process:
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will appear before a District Court commissioner who will set bail or release conditions.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney will review evidence, file motions to suppress, and negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial in District Court (misdemeanors) or be sent to Circuit Court for a jury trial (felonies).
Potential Penalties for Theft in Anne Arundel County
In Anne Arundel County, theft penalties are determined by the value of the property and can include jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense (Based on Value) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Conviction Record |
| Theft $100 to under $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | Conviction Record |
| Theft $1,500 to under $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Felony Conviction |
| Theft $25,000 to under $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Felony Conviction |
| Theft $100,000 or more | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | Felony Conviction |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Theft Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We have a documented track record of 4,739+ case results with a favorable outcome rate of over 93%. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to every client’s case. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand the strategies used by the State’s Attorney’s office.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results are unique to each case, our firm-wide dedication is evidenced by 4,739+ documented case results and a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach involves a thorough investigation, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, and pursuing all available options, including PBJ, to protect our clients’ futures. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every defense is meticulously prepared.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Anne Arundel County Theft Defense Lawyers
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville. We are accessible via major routes including I-97, Route 50, and Route 2.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanor thefts at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get a theft conviction expunged in Anne Arundel County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ dispositions (after 3 years). For qualifying non-violent theft convictions, expungement may be possible under the Justice Reinvestment Act. An attorney can review your specific record from cases heard at the Anne Arundel County District Court to determine eligibility.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft of $100-$1,500 carries up to 6 months in jail. An experienced stealing charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can negotiate for a PBJ (avoiding a conviction) or seek a dismissal at the District Court, protecting your record and future.
What happens after a theft arrest in Anne Arundel County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case will then proceed to arraignment and trial. Misdemeanor theft trials are held at the District Court on Rowe Boulevard; felony theft cases go to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court.
How can a theft defense lawyer Anne Arundel County help my case?
A lawyer can challenge the evidence, such as disputing the property’s value to reduce the charge category. They can negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable disposition like a PBJ or dismissal. They also ensure your rights are protected during all court proceedings at the Anne Arundel County District Court.
For more information on theft defense, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. If you are facing other charges, we provide representation for DUI in Anne Arundel County and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your theft charge.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.