Theft Defense Lawyer Baltimore County — Protecting Your Rights
A theft charge in Baltimore County is a serious matter under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, with penalties ranging from 90 days to 25 years. As a theft defense lawyer Baltimore County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. leverages deep local court knowledge to build your defense. Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in Maryland courts. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
Theft, or larceny, in Maryland is governed by the state’s Criminal Law Article. The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend heavily on the value of the property involved and the circumstances of the alleged act. A larceny defense lawyer Baltimore County must understand these nuances, as a charge can be a misdemeanor or a felony. For example, theft under $100 is a misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail, while theft over $1,500 is a felony with potential for years of imprisonment. The specific statute and classification are critical to your defense strategy.
For the official Maryland theft statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures for Baltimore County cases are handled at the District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain all police reports and evidence from the State’s Attorney.
- We will analyze the evidence for weaknesses, such as lack of intent or mistaken identity.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or favorable disposition like PBJ.
- Prepare for trial if a fair plea agreement cannot be reached.
In Baltimore County, theft carries a penalty range from 90 days for petty theft to 25 years for first-degree assault committed during a theft, with fines up to $2,500 or more.
| 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 |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record |
| First-Degree Assault (during theft) | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds its cases from the inside. This perspective is invaluable when constructing a defense against theft charges. We focus on the details of your case to identify procedural weaknesses and challenge the evidence against you.
Our firm has a documented record of handling theft and related charges in Maryland. For instance, we have successfully negotiated dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) and favorable probationary outcomes for clients. Mr. Sris, with his multi-state practice and background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex cases involving financial allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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.
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Baltimore County, including Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, and Pikesville. We are a theft defense lawyer near Baltimore County courts, ready to discuss your case.
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 misdemeanors and many felonies at the District Court in Towson. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my theft record expunged in Baltimore County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), Stet, and PBJ dispositions after a 3-year wait. Some 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 your case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Baltimore County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft of $100-$1,500 carries up to 6 months in jail. A skilled stealing charge defense lawyer Baltimore County can negotiate for PBJ to avoid a conviction or seek a dismissal, protecting your record and future opportunities.
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 follows within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case will then proceed to arraignment and trial in District Court for misdemeanors, or to Circuit Court for felony theft charges.
What’s the difference between theft and robbery in Maryland?
Theft involves taking property without permission. Robbery is theft accomplished through force or threat of force. Robbery is always a felony with more severe penalties. A larceny defense lawyer Baltimore County can analyze the facts to ensure the correct charge is applied.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub. We also assist clients in Montgomery County and with related issues like DUI defense in Baltimore County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.