Theft Defense Lawyer Howard County — Protecting Your Rights and Future
A theft charge in Howard County, Maryland, is a serious matter prosecuted under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Penalties range from 90 days for theft under $100 to 5 years for felony theft. As a dedicated theft defense lawyer Howard County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, theft is legally defined as the unauthorized control over property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. The specific charges and penalties you face depend heavily on the value of the property involved and the circumstances of the alleged act. Charges can range from a misdemeanor for smaller amounts to a felony for higher values or specific types of property. A larceny defense lawyer Howard County must understand these nuances to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case.
For official state law, refer to the Maryland General Assembly statutes. For local court procedures, visit the District Court of MD for Howard County website.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports and evidence.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge improper evidence or procedural errors.
- Negotiate with the Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office for a reduction or alternative disposition.
- Prepare for a bench trial in District Court if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- If convicted, advocate for the most favorable sentencing terms, including avoiding jail time.
In Howard County, theft penalties escalate with the value involved: under $100 is up to 90 days, $100-$1,500 is a misdemeanor up to 6 months, and $1,500-$25,000 is a felony up to 5 years in prison, plus fines and restitution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| 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 $10,000 | None | Felony record, restitution, possible probation |
| Theft over $25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, significant restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we commit the full resources of our firm to defend clients in Howard County and across Maryland.
Our team, including firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice, has extensive experience defending theft charges. We understand that a conviction can impact employment, housing, and professional licenses. Our goal is to seek dismissals, reductions to lesser offenses, or dispositions like PBJ that avoid a permanent conviction on your record.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients throughout Howard County. We represent individuals in Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel. As a theft defense lawyer Howard County residents can rely on, we are accessible via I-95, Route 29, and other major highways. Contact us for a consultation regarding your theft or larceny charge.
FAQs: Theft and Larceny Defense in Howard County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Howard County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Howard County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Howard County, Maryland?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in Howard County are expunged through the court where the case was heard. Eligibility hinges on the final disposition and the type of offense.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Howard County, Maryland?
After arrest in Howard County: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors like petty theft are tried at District Court. Felonies go to Howard County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft in Howard County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland misdemeanor theft ($100-$1,500) carries up to 6 months in jail. An attorney at District Court of MD for Howard County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. A lawyer protects your rights and works toward the best possible outcome.
What’s the difference between theft and larceny in Maryland?
In modern Maryland law, “theft” is the full statutory term that includes the older common-law crime of “larceny.” The Md. Code, Criminal Law Article uses “theft” to cover various forms of unlawfully taking or controlling property, making a larceny defense lawyer Howard County effectively a theft defense lawyer.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County and Anne Arundel County. If you are facing other charges, explore our related services in Howard County: DUI/DWI defense and family law.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.