Theft Defense Lawyer Baltimore County — What Are Your Options?
A theft charge in Baltimore County can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Theft under $100 is a misdemeanor with up to 90 days in jail, while theft over $1,500 is a felony with up to 5 years. As a theft defense lawyer Baltimore County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Maryland Theft Laws and Penalties
In Maryland, theft is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property taken and the circumstances. The classification ranges from a misdemeanor for smaller amounts to a felony for larger values or specific aggravating factors. The court handling your case is the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson, located at 120 East Chesapeake Avenue, Towson, MD 21286.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a foundational understanding of how theft cases are built and prosecuted, which is critical for an effective defense strategy.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, review Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson website.
Baltimore County Theft Defense Strategy
A key local procedural fact is that the Baltimore County State’s Attorney’s Office frequently offers Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for first-time theft offenses. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation. An experienced stealing charge defense lawyer Baltimore County can negotiate for this outcome or seek a dismissal (Nolle Prosequi) if the evidence is weak.
- Initial Consultation: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. We will review the charging documents and police report.
- Case Investigation: We examine the evidence, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and police procedures, to identify weaknesses.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiation or Trial: We engage with the prosecutor to seek a reduction or dismissal. If a fair plea cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
- Post-Disposition: If eligible, we can guide you through the expungement process to clear your record after the waiting period.
Theft Penalties in Baltimore County
In Baltimore County, theft penalties vary based on the value of the property, with fines up to $2,500 and incarceration from 90 days to 25 years for the most serious offenses.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Theft over $25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| First-Degree Assault (during theft) | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Violent felony record |
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, and we have handled over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93% firm-wide. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who provides critical insight into how the State builds its cases.
Case Results in Baltimore County
Our firm actively practices in Baltimore County courts. While specific case results are unique to each client, our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented results with more than 93% favorable outcomes. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, collaborates with our team to develop case-specific defense strategies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft Defense Lawyer Near Baltimore County
Our Maryland location serves clients at Baltimore County courts in Towson. We represent individuals from Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium. If you need a theft defense lawyer Baltimore County near you, we are accessible via I-695, I-83, and I-95.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
Baltimore County Theft Defense FAQs
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Baltimore 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 theft cases at the District Court in Towson. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get a theft charge expunged in Baltimore County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), Stet dockets, and PBJ dispositions after a 3-year wait. Certain non-violent theft convictions may also be expunged under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Eligibility is case-specific and requires a petition to the court where the case was heard.
What happens after a theft arrest in Baltimore 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 in District Court for misdemeanors, or to Baltimore County Circuit Court for felonies.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft under $1,500 carries up to 6 months in jail. A larceny defense lawyer Baltimore County can negotiate for PBJ to avoid a conviction, challenge the evidence, or seek a dismissal. The potential consequences make legal representation crucial.
What is the difference between theft and robbery in Maryland?
Theft involves taking property without consent. Robbery is theft accomplished by force or threat of force. Robbery is always a felony with much more severe penalties, including the potential for decades in prison. The specific facts of your case determine the charge.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Baltimore County DUI defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your theft charge.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.