Theft Defense Lawyer in Kent County, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
A theft charge in Kent 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 theft defense lawyer Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Kent County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Theft Laws and Penalties
Theft in Maryland, often called larceny, is defined under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-101 et seq. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property and the circumstances. Theft under $100 is a misdemeanor with up to 90 days in jail. Theft between $100 and $1,500 is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months. Theft of $1,500 to $25,000 is a felony with a maximum of 5 years imprisonment. A larceny defense lawyer Kent County must understand these classifications to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence and valuation.
Our firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We focus on the specific procedures of Kent County courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s theft statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website (Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-101). For court-specific information, including location and hours, refer to the District Court of MD for Kent County official website.
Kent County Theft Defense Process
In Kent County, all misdemeanor theft cases are handled at the District Court located at 103 N. Cross Street, Chestertown. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ). A PBJ disposition avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation, which is a critical goal for any stealing charge defense lawyer Kent County. Prosecutors from the Kent County State’s Attorney’s Office may also offer dispositions like a Nolle Prosequi (dropping charges) or a Stet (placing the case on an inactive docket).
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your attorney will review evidence, identify weaknesses, and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or favorable disposition like PBJ.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a District Court judge.
- Sentencing or Expungement: If convicted, your attorney will argue for minimal penalties. If eligible, they can later file for expungement to clear your record.
Theft Penalties in Kent County
In Kent County, theft penalties are determined by the value of the property and can include jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal Conviction |
| Theft $100 – $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | Criminal Conviction |
| Theft $1,500 – $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Felony Conviction |
| Theft over $25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Felony Conviction |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Theft Defense Lawyer in Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the state builds its cases. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results. We provide full representation for theft and larceny charges in Chestertown, Rock Hall, and throughout Kent County.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our approach focuses on achieving the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction, or alternative dispositions like PBJ. For example, our team has successfully negotiated dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in cases involving theft and related charges. Firm-wide, SRIS has a documented record of over 4,739 case results with a high rate of favorable outcomes. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Theft Defense Lawyer Serving Kent County
Our Maryland office represents clients in Kent County. We serve communities including Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton.
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.
Kent County Theft Defense FAQs
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Kent 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 Kent County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my theft record expunged in Kent County, Maryland?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). Some non-violent theft convictions may also be expunged under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in Kent County are expunged through the court where the case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Kent County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft in Maryland carries significant penalties—theft of $100-$1,500 can result in up to 6 months in jail. An attorney at District Court of MD for Kent County can negotiate for PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, protecting your record and future.
What should I do if I am arrested for theft in Kent County?
First, remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a theft defense lawyer Kent County as soon as possible to advise on bail and begin building your defense strategy before your initial court appearance.
What are the defenses to a theft charge in Maryland?
Common defenses include lack of intent to permanently deprive, claim of right (believing the property was yours), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of value, and challenging the legality of a search or seizure that found the evidence.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and with related issues such as DUI defense in Kent County.
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.