Theft Defense Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Options?
Theft charges in Maryland are serious, with penalties ranging from 90 days for petty theft to 25 years for felony theft over $100,000 under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104. A theft defense lawyer Maryland from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the State’s evidence, negotiate for Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), or seek dismissal.
Maryland Theft Law and Penalties
Maryland law defines theft 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 and other circumstances. The penalties escalate sharply with the value.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
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). Court procedures and local rules can be found on the Maryland Judiciary website.
Local Court Process for Theft Charges
In Maryland District Courts, theft under $1,500 is typically a misdemeanor handled at an initial appearance and trial. For felony theft over $1,500, the case begins in District Court but can be forwarded to Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors often rely on witness statements and surveillance footage. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for many first-time theft offenses, which avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty. Bail conditions are often set.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and video evidence from the State to identify defenses.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges for lack of probable cause can be filed.
- Negotiation & Disposition: Your lawyer will negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a favorable outcome, such as a PBJ, reduced charge, or dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial in District Court or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Expungement: If convicted, your lawyer will argue for minimal penalties. If eligible, they can later file for expungement.
Potential Penalties for Theft in Maryland
In Maryland, theft penalties depend on the property’s value, ranging from 90 days for theft under $100 to 25 years for theft over $100,000, plus fines and restitution.
| Offense (By Value) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Theft $100 – $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Theft $1,500 – $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Theft $25,000 – $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Theft over $100,000 | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Restitution, felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Theft Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former Maryland prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who understand how the State builds its cases from the inside. We focus on a full representation strategy, examining every detail from the legality of the stop or search to the credibility of identification. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in theft and related cases. For example, in Montgomery County, we have 21 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 95% favorable outcome rate. In Frederick County, we have 11 documented results, including 4 dismissed/not guilty and 3 reduced/amended charges. Firm founder Mr. Sris provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring a collaborative approach to your defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Maryland Theft Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, and Frederick County. We are accessible via I-270 and I-495. If you need a theft defense lawyer Maryland near Rockville Town Square or the District Court, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation. We serve neighborhoods including Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase.
Frequently Asked Questions: Theft Charges in Maryland
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Maryland?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft in Maryland carries up to 6 months in jail and a permanent criminal record. A larceny defense lawyer Maryland can negotiate for Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) to avoid a conviction or seek a dismissal if the evidence is weak.
What is the difference between theft and robbery in Maryland?
It depends on the use of force or threat. Theft involves taking property without force. Robbery is theft accomplished by force, violence, or threat of immediate force, which is a more serious felony with penalties of up to 15 years imprisonment.
Can a theft charge be expunged in Maryland?
Yes, under certain conditions. Acquittals, dismissals, nolle prosequi, and stet dispositions are eligible for expungement. Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period. Some non-violent convictions may also be expunged under the Justice Reinvestment Act.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for theft?
PBJ is a disposition where the court finds you guilty but stays the entry of judgment, places you on probation, and dismisses the case upon successful completion. It prevents a formal conviction on your record, which is crucial for employment and housing.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of theft?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and request to speak with a stealing charge defense lawyer Maryland immediately.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific case.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.