Theft Defense Lawyer Maryland — Protecting Your Rights & Future
Theft charges in Maryland, from shoplifting to felony larceny, carry serious penalties including jail time and a permanent criminal record. A theft defense lawyer Maryland from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm, founded in 1997, has former prosecutors on staff who understand how the State builds its case.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, theft is broadly defined under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR) § 7-104. The law prohibits the unauthorized control over property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend heavily on the value of the property involved. A larceny defense lawyer Maryland can explain how these value thresholds impact your case, from a misdemeanor for items under $1,500 to a felony for higher amounts.
Understanding the specific statute is the first step in building a defense. The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, brings a background in accounting and information systems, which is particularly valuable in complex theft cases involving financial records or digital evidence.
Official Maryland Theft Laws & Court Resources
For the precise legal language, refer to the official Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR) § 7-104 on the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures and local rules for theft cases are managed by the District Court of Maryland, where most misdemeanor theft trials occur.
Local Theft Defense Strategy in Maryland Courts
A key local procedural fact is Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) disposition under Criminal Procedure Art. § 6-220. For eligible first-time offenders, a PBJ can avoid a formal conviction on your record upon successful completion of probation. Prosecutors in counties like Montgomery and Prince George’s frequently offer PBJ in lower-level theft cases as part of a plea agreement. An experienced stealing charge defense lawyer Maryland will also explore defenses such as claim of right, lack of intent, or mistaken identity.
- Secure immediate legal representation before any statement is made to police or store security.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge improper evidence or procedural errors.
- Negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or favorable disposition like PBJ.
- Prepare for trial, if necessary, to present a strong defense before a judge or jury.
Potential Penalties for Theft in Maryland
In Maryland, theft penalties range from a misdemeanor with up to 6 months in jail for property valued between $100 and $1,500, to a felony with up to 10 years in prison for theft over $25,000.
| Offense (By Value) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Civil demand from retailer; possible probation. |
| Theft $100 – $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | Criminal record; difficulty with employment/housing. |
| Theft $1,500 – $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Felony record; loss of certain civil rights. |
| Theft $25,000 – $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Severe long-term personal and professional impacts. |
| Theft over $100,000 | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Maximum penalties under state law. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Maryland Theft Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we provide full representation for theft charges. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, we have the depth to handle your case. Our team includes former Maryland prosecutors who know the tactics used by the State’s Attorney’s office, giving us a strategic advantage in building your defense.
For complex theft cases, Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney, often collaborates. A former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, he provides valuable strategic oversight, especially in cases involving financial evidence.
Case Results for Theft & Larceny Charges
Our approach yields results. In Montgomery County, we have 21 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 95% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. These results include theft charges that were dismissed, reduced to lesser offenses, or resolved through Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) to avoid a conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Maryland Theft Defense Lawyers
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Maryland, including Montgomery, Prince George’s, Howard, Anne Arundel, and Frederick Counties. We are accessible via I-270, I-495, and other major highways. If you need a theft defense lawyer Maryland near you, we are here to help.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Serving communities in: Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, Chevy Chase, Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Columbia, and Ellicott City.
Maryland Theft Defense FAQ
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties—theft of $100-$1,500 is a misdemeanor with up to 6 months in jail. An attorney at your local District Court can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal, protecting your future.
What is the difference between theft and shoplifting in Maryland?
It depends. Shoplifting is a type of theft covered under the same statute (CR § 7-104). The legal elements are identical: unauthorized control with intent to deprive. The term “shoplifting” typically refers to theft from a store, but the charge on your paperwork will likely be “Theft.”
Can a theft charge be expunged in Maryland?
Yes, under specific conditions. Acquittals, dismissals, and Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) dispositions are eligible for expungement. For a theft conviction, expungement may be possible after a waiting period (3-10 years) if it was a non-violent offense under the expanded Justice Reinvestment Act. A lawyer can assess your eligibility.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for theft?
PBJ is a disposition where the court finds you guilty but postpones entering a judgment of conviction. If you successfully complete probation, the case is closed without a conviction on your public record. It is a common goal for first-time offenders in theft cases.
Should I talk to store security if accused of shoplifting?
No. Politely decline to make any statement and request to speak with an attorney immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact a larceny defense lawyer Maryland as soon as possible to guide your next steps.
For more information, see our main Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Prince George’s County and Howard County. If you are facing other charges, explore our Montgomery County DUI Lawyer services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.